Maintaining Records
South Carolina law requires parents homeschooling under Option 3 to maintain specific records as part of their accountability. Keeping organized, up-to-date records not only helps you stay compliant—it also supports your child’s progress and can be helpful for future transitions.
Required Records
According to SC Code of Law Section 59-65-47, you must keep the following:
1. A Plan Book or Journal
Document your instructional plans. This can be a formal lesson planner, a digital calendar, or handwritten notes outlining the subjects and topics you cover each day or week.
2. A Portfolio of Student Work
Include samples of your child’s work, such as worksheets, writing assignments, art projects, or photos of hands-on learning. The goal is to show a representation of what your child is learning over time.
3. A Semiannual Progress Report
Write a brief summary twice per year describing your child’s progress in the required subjects: reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. This does not need to be formal—just a few sentences noting strengths, improvements, and areas of focus.
Helpful Tips for Recordkeeping
Choose a System That Works for You
Whether you prefer digital tools (like Google Docs, spreadsheets, or apps) or physical notebooks and binders, pick a system that you’ll actually use. Consistency is more important than perfection. There’s no one-size-fits-all method.
Date and Organize Your Work
Always date your lesson plans and student work. This helps you track progress over time and can be especially helpful if your records are ever reviewed. Using folders, subject dividers, or labeled digital folders can make it easy to locate items when needed.
Set a Routine
Block off time once a week (or every other week) to catch up on your planning and file away samples. Regular maintenance will keep the task from becoming a big end-of-year scramble. Treat it like any other school task—part of your weekly rhythm.
Use Photos to Capture Learning
Photos are a great way to document hands-on projects, science experiments, field trips, group learning, or any non-paper-based activities. You can print them for a physical portfolio or store them digitally with notes. They help round out your record of learning in a meaningful and personal way.
Keep It Simple
You don’t need to document every lesson or piece of work. Aim for a general outline of instruction, a few meaningful samples for each subject, and key activities or milestones. The goal is to represent consistent instruction and student growth—not perfection.
Reach Out for Support
You’re not doing this alone. Our homeschool association is here to guide and encourage you. If you’re unsure what records to keep, how to organize them, or just want reassurance that you’re on track, we’re happy to provide templates, examples, or a listening ear.
Templates & Samples
-
Weekly Planner
Perfect for satisfying the “plan book or journal” requirement.
-
Portfolio Cover Sheets
A fun way to organize and explain the contents of each section in a physical or digital portfolio.
-
Semi-Annual Progress Report
Use our online form to summarize your child’s academic progress for the current semester.