Frequently Asked Questions
Is standardized testing the only option for meeting the annual assessment required by homeschool students?
No, parents have two options to satisfy this statutory requirement (RCW 28A.200.010). They must ensure that:
- A standardized achievement test approved by the State Board of Education is administered according to protocol annually to the child by a qualified individual; or
- An annual assessment of the student's academic progress is written by a certificated certified person who is currently working in the field of education.
Is this a test?
Not at all. There is no testing involved. The evaluation is a supportive review of your child’s learning and growth.
Will this meet Washington State requirements?
Yes. A non-test (guided form) evaluation conducted by a certificated teacher meets the annual assessment requirement for homeschool students in Washington State.
What is a homeschool non-test assessment?
A non-test assessment (guided form/portfolio) is one of the ways to meet Washington State’s annual homeschool requirement. It involves a certified teacher reviewing samples of your child’s learning and writing a brief evaluation confirming their progress. See, "How It Works: Portfolio Assessments".
Do I need to follow a specific curriculum?
No. Washington State does not require a specific curriculum for non-test evaluations. Your child’s learning can reflect your chosen approach, style, and pace.
What do I need to include in my child’s guided form/portfolio review?
Select work that reflects your child’s learning throughout the year. This can include a mix of assignments, writing samples, math work, projects, photos of activities, or even online learning results. See, "How it Works: Portfolio Assessments".
How long does the evaluation take?
Turnaround time is typically quick once materials are received. If you choose a virtual meeting via Micrsoft Teams Meeting, the evaluation is often completed shortly after our conversation.
How do I get started?
You can visit "Portfolio Assessment Forms" for step-by-step instructions or reach out directly to schedule your evaluation. I’m happy to answer any questions along the way.
Ready to simplify your assessment process?
I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's get started on documenting your child's amazing progress.