Enrollment is now closed for the 2013-14 school year. Please email us with any special circumstances that require mid-year or late enrollment BEFORE completing any steps beyond Step One.
2014-2015 Enrollment will open on April 1, 2014.
(The links below will change by April 1st)
Steps to Enroll in Essential Church School
We understand that the decision to homeschool is one that can be filled with uncertainty, and it is our desire to make things as clear and clean as possible.
Step One – Get to Know Us
Please read our online handbook for details about our policies and procedures. In short, we want you to get to know who we are and what we will expect from you. There are some things that are required by Alabama law, and we will guide you in making sure those essentials are fulfilled.
Step Two – Application
We are now only offering an online application process. Click here to go to the Online Enrollment Applicaton.
Step Three – Church School Enrollment Form
Once your application is submitted, you will be directed to complete a Church School Enrollment form for each student. This is also completed online.
Our administrator will confirm enrollment and send you the completed forms with a confirmation email. The email will contain instructions for your responsibilities to submit these forms to your local school superintendent.
You should print one copy for your important files, and the other printed copy needs to be mailed certified to your local school superintendent (delivery confirmation is not necessary) . Keep the certified mail receipt with your copy. This is the proof that you are abiding by the Alabama compulsory education laws.
Step Four – Become a member of HSLDA
Home School Legal Defense Association is an association of attorneys who teach their own children at home and who defend the homeschooling rights of members nationwide. One of the most comforting areas of support any homeschool family can have is the assurance of knowing you have help with any legal matters that may arise. We feel that it is important for you and your family to be fully protected and have made arrangements for a discounted membership fee. Membership is not required, but highly recommended.
Step Five – Don’t do it alone!
We encourage you to join us as we participate in field trips, parties, park days, and encouragement from local support groups. It is important to share with other families and get connected with the many offerings available for homeschoolers throughout Birmingham. Many of our families participate in the activities offered by Birmingham Homeschoolers Community.