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Exempt (Home) School Program
General Information
Parents (or guardians) may educate their child at home by electing not to meet State approval or accreditation requirements (Section 79-1601 R.R.S.). In Nebraska, "home schools" are referred to as exempt schools and are considered non-approved or non-accredited schools. By filing for and receiving exempt status, parents are electing not to have their child attend a school that meets State approval and accreditation requirements while also complying with the compulsory school attendance law (Section 79-201 R.R.S.).
Rule 12 and Rule 13 are the rules governing the procedures and standards for parents (or guardians) filing for an exemption, and are the same with the exception of the reason for the exemption and that Rule 12 exempt schools will need to comply with immunization laws.
On the following links are the Frequently Asked Questions document, rules and regulations, a list of private parent support organizations, and the forms to file for an exemption.
- Frequently Asked Questions (2013/14 School Year)
- Rules & Regulations
- Rule 12 [for non-religious reasons] and
- Rule 13 [for religious reasons]
- Resources (private parent support organizations)
Forms for the 2013/14 School Year (pdf format)
Be sure to review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document and Rules before completing the forms.
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For families seeking to renew their exemption for the 2013/14 school year, the completed documents must be filed with NDE by no later than July 15, 2013 (or earlier if possible).
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For first year filers, the completed documents must be filed at least 30 days prior to when you begin your exempt school.
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If you reside in Nebraska when your local school district begins its school year, we highly recommend filing before that school year begins or as soon thereafter as possible. For example, your local district’s school year begins on August 12, 2013; you should file by July 12, 2013 (or earlier if possible).
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Statistical Information
Program Contacts
- Beth Bolte: (402) 471-2795 or beth.bolte@nebraska.gov
- Micki Iverson: (402) 471-1894 or micki.iverson@nebraska.gov