What is an Umbrella School?

The term ‘umbrella’, as it relates to homeschooling has nothing to do with the weather. It refers to the covering or protection that these entities provide for the homeschooling family. 

A homeschool umbrella school acts as a non-traditional private school. It may be virtual (online only), physical (brick and mortar), or a combination of the two. Sometimes referred to as a ‘cover-school’ or church-related school (CRS), the umbrella school partners with homeschool families to provide oversight, advice, and assistance with meeting the legal requirements of the state and local school district.

Umbrellas provide information and advice about curriculum, including high school electives and dual enrollment. To comply with state laws they keep attendance where required, communicate with the local school district on the family’s behalf, and perform evaluations or reviews to ensure a child’s education is meeting or exceeding the state’s legal requirements. In fact, many families join umbrellas specifically for the annual review. The review process is a little less intimidating when done with a peer, someone familiar with and supportive of the homeschool experience.

A physical umbrella school may offer classes, standardized testing, or fun group events such as clubs, field trips, dances, sports activities, and graduation ceremonies. Both virtual and physical umbrellas offer high school students’ official transcripts and diplomas as well as assistance and information regarding the college admission process.

The cost and requirements of umbrella membership vary greatly. Some may request that an education plan be submitted at the beginning of each semester or school year. These plans are used to ensure students will be taught specific subjects and complete the minimum hours or days as required by state law.

Homeschool umbrellas operate under secular or religious guidelines. Church-related umbrellas usually require a bible class, with a specified number of religious-education credits necessary for graduation.

Though not essential, many homeschooling families join an umbrella school for the support, encouragement, and peace of mind it provides. For families new to home education, the umbrella offers reassurance of appropriate record-keeping and compliance should an educational audit occur.

To find an umbrella group in your area ask friends or church members, search in social media groups, or read homeschool blogs from within your state.