Understanding the Difference Between Parent-Led Homeschool and School-Based Homeschool

When families choose to teach their child outside of the usual classroom, we often hear the word “homeschooling.” But all homeschooling isn't equal. There are two very different kinds of home education, often misunderstood: Parent-Led Homeschool and School-Based Homeschool, also referred to as Virtual School or Public School at Home.

They have distinguishing features, legal considerations, level of flexibility, and parent-teacher roles. Identification of the contrast matters significantly not least to autistic children's parents who require personalized support.

What is Parent-Led Homeschool?

Parent-led home schooling is an independent form of schooling where the parent or custodian provides schooling to their child. This involves:

Key Characteristics:

• Curriculum control:

Parents choose or design the curriculum, pace of learning, and teaching methods.

• Flexibility:

The schooling can be highly individualized to suit a child's learning approach, senses, and interests.

• Legal authority:

Generally, families sign up either with the state or local school authority as homeschools and comply with their state's regulations.

• Evaluation:

Parents decide how to measure progress standardized tests may or may not be used based on state law.

The Parent’s Role:

• Serves as the main teacher, planner, and administrator.

• Has full authority to control the school calendar, course selection, and teaching approach (e.g., Montessori, unschooling, classical).

Best suited for:

• Students who can be helped by a personalized strategy particularly neurodivergent students

• Families seeking more autonomy and fewer institutional restrictions.

What is School-Based Homeschool (Virtual School/Public School at Home)?

School-based homeschool is not traditional homeschooling, even though learning happens at home. Instead, the child is still enrolled in a public or private school, but receives instruction virtually.

Key Characteristics:

• Curriculum and instruction provided by the school (often via an online platform like K12, Connections Academy, or a local school district).

• Standardized schedule and pacing:

Students follow a more rigid structure similar to in-person schooling.

• Certified teachers:

Lessons are taught by state-certified teachers, not the parent.

• Public accountability:

The student is included in public school enrollment and has to comply with state testing, attendance, grading requirements.

The Parent’s Role:

• Acts more as a learning coach or facilitator.

• Helps manage schedules, troubleshoot tech, and ensure their child participates and completes assignments.

Best For:

• Families who want the option to have students learn from home but need fully guided, state-offered curriculum and teaching assistance.

• Students who thrive with external instruction but struggle with in person settings.