Redwine estimated at least 2,500 children are enrolled in the county' s program and district-sponsored programs countywide. Charter schools are public schools, but are subject to fewer state regulations, often giving home-schooling parents more freedom to choose books and curriculum. But all public school programs, including charters, come with state regulations that some home-schoolers want to avoid. The state allows students to be taught by private tutors. Parents may hire tutors or teach children themselves if they have the appropriate teaching credentials.
Some private schools offer an independent study program.
Private schools are subject to minimal state requirements and do not require teachers to be credentialed. Some private schools simply keep records for home-schooled students, while others offer more guidance and help plan the course of study. Parents can file affidavits with the county declaring that their home is a private school. However, state officials say such families may be misinterpreting the law. These parents are required to keep records of attendance, faculty, children' s immunizations and courses of study, according to the HomeSchool Association of California.