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Help!! I've just started looking into the NYS reporting requirements because I'm going to need to start reporting in September. Even though this issue won't affect me for a couple of years, when I saw it, I kind of freaked out. I know there are those of you who are using or have used HOD in NYS, so I'm hoping you can give me some insight. (And anyone else from other states that have equally strict regulations - although I doubt any exist. ) Here is the homeschooling requirement for elementary grades in NY:

"Instruction in the following subjects shall be required:
i.For grades one through six: arithmetic, reading, spelling, writing, the English language, geography, United States history, science, health education, music, visual arts, physical education, bilingual education and/or English as a second language where the need is indicated.
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iii.The following courses shall be taught at least once during the first eight grades: United States history, New York State history, and the Constitutions of the United States and New York State. "

How do you get around the requirement to teach US History each year once you hit Preparing?

my2guys,

I lived in NY for 2 years after living in Florida and was a bit freaked out myself when I read over all the requirements! It can seem quite overwhelming. However, take a deep breath, and try to relax. I was involved with a LEAH homeschool group while there and they were a big help. It is my understanding that the subjects to be covered "at least once during the first eight grades" means just that. You only have to cover each once, meaning if you decide to go over American History using Beyond for a 2nd grader that is all that is required....doing anything more later with AH would be your choice. We used Beyond... and Bigger...while there so our AH was covered that way. It's the same with the constitutions and NYS history. I was saving our NYS history and the constitutions for when my dd was older so I could do both with my 8th grader and 6th grader...and only cover it once together. However, we ended up moving back to FL where it is less regulated, so I didn't have to do it at all. However, we probably will still cover the constitution and state history at some point, only on our timetable. Anyway, I hope that makes you feel a little better. I would suggest getting involved in a homeschool group if you're not already. The homeschool veterans within such a group will be a great help to you.

Actually, the thing that was freaking me out was in the first paragraph, which makes it sound like US history has to be taught each year - grades 1-6. But, now that you mention it, the other paragraph does seem to contradict that when it says at least once. So very clear! I haven't done anything with a homeschool group this year, but I've been in contact with the leader of our local LEAH chapter this week and I'm planning on attending their next meeting in a couple of weeks. So hopefully that will clarify things somewhat. AND, I think I may have talked dh into going to the LEAH convention in June, so that should help too. I know this isn't something I really need to be concerned about for the next couple of years, but what can I say - I'm a planner!
Thanks for your insight!