If You Are Contacted

No one wants to think about being contacted by DSS, but it happens in our area and we want our members to be prepared.  Please take this seriously as knowing how to handle such a situation can make homeschoolers' lives so much easier.

Keep Good Records

The key to getting through any sort of investigation is to have good records and to have them in order and readily available.  The primary way that DSS goes after a homeschool family is to prove education neglect on the parents'/teachers' part.  The is not done by looking at the students and where they are academically (DSS can't require that since the law doesn't).  Instead, the challenge is based on lack of record-keeping.  Despite inertia or a busy schedule, you MUST keep track of daily lesson plans, a calendar, semi-annual grades, and a portfolio.  You should update them at least twice a year - quarterly is better.

Be Prepared for When an Official Calls You

• Be a good listener - it is better to listen than to volunteer information.
• Ask questions: 
Why are you calling? What is your name? What is your telephone number and extension?
• If they ask to see you in person, let them know that you will consult your 59-65-47, third option, accountability association, PHEA (296-6880), about their request.  Or call HSLDA, if you are a member.
• Let them know that they may email PHEA (phea@att.net) for verification of your membership and give them our email address.

Be Prepared for When an Official is at Your Door

•  If you are an HSLDA member call them immediately.  If you are not, call your association immediately, and let us know that an official is at your door.
• Ask if the official has a search warrant.  If not, you do not have to give permission to allow him in the house.  If a police officer states he is investigating an emergency situation, then he may enter without the search warrant.
• Be a good listener - it is better to listen than to volunteer information.
• Ask questions:
Why are you here? What is your name? What is your telephone number and extension?
• If an official with a police officer insist on coming into your house you tell them nicely and calmly, "I am closing the door - it is not locked - you do not have my permission to come in.  If you open the door and come in, I have not allowed you.  You are doing so illegally according to Calabretta V. Floyd, a Civil Rights Lawsuit, and I will seek action."