Hello

Welcome to the world of homeschooling in South Carolina! Here, families have the opportunity to tailor their education through three legally recognized options. Many choose to register with a 3rd Option Homeschool Accountability Association, like PACESC, for its flexibility and support. Embrace a personalized learning that suits your family's needs!

SC Homeschooling... What is SC Option 3?

To be eligible to homeschool under this option, you MUST:

Be a resident of South Carolina (even if living abroad as a missionary or contractor).
Be the parent or legal guardian of the child you want to register, or a foster parent with the approval of the foster care agent, or in the process of adoption either with legal guardianship or approval from the adoption agency.
A minimum of a High School Diploma or GED is required.

Once Registered, homeschool parents/legal guardians are REQUIRED:

Attendance --
- At least 180 days of instruction.
Required Subjects Covered --
- Reading, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies; plus for grades 7-12: Composition and Literature
Keeping Records --
- Lesson Plan or Journal
- Student Work Samples
- A Mid-Year Progress Report & an End-of-Year Progress Report

What PACESC Believes...

At PACESC, we believe in empowering parents to take charge of their homeschool journey with confidence, flexibility, and support. Here’s what that looks like in practice:

📅 Your School Year, Your Calendar
PACESC does not dictate your school calendar. As required by South Carolina law, your homeschool year must include at least 180 instructional days. We simply require that your membership remains current during any period you wish to count as school attendance.

📊 Testing Is Optional
PACESC does not require standardized testing. We believe parents are best equipped to evaluate their child's progress in the ways that serve them best. However, if you're interested in testing services, feel free to reach out—we're happy to help connect you with available resources.

📚 Curriculum Is Your Choice
While South Carolina law outlines a required core curriculum, PACESC does not endorse or mandate any particular program. We recognize that families have different values, lifestyles, and educational goals—and that every child learns differently. Whether you follow a pre-designed course of study or create your own, you are free to choose what works best for your family. We’re always here with guidance and support when you need it.

📝 Minimal Oversight, Maximum Trust
PACESC keeps our process simple. We only ask for your assurance that you're meeting the minimum legal requirements for your child’s education. Members agree to maintain their own records as required by law and to participate in a records review by the Director if a situation ever calls for it.

❤️ Parents Are the Primary Educators
At the heart of our philosophy is this: parents hold the right—and the responsibility—to raise and teach their children according to their beliefs, values, and unique family style.

Because of that:

✝️ No Statement of Faith Is Required
PACESC welcomes families from all backgrounds. We do not ask about religious beliefs, denominational affiliation, or faith-related practices.