Homeschool vs. Florida Virtual – What’s the Difference?

If you’re exploring alternatives to traditional schooling in Florida, you’ve likely come across two popular options: homeschooling and Florida Virtual School (FLVS). While they both offer flexibility and online learning opportunities, they’re fundamentally different in structure, responsibility, and outcomes.

Understanding these differences can help you choose the path that best supports your child’s learning style, family rhythm, and long-term goals.

What Is Homeschooling?

Homeschooling means the parent or guardian takes full responsibility for the child’s education. You choose the curriculum, set the schedule, and guide the learning process. In Florida, homeschool families register with their local school district and submit an annual evaluation to show progress.

Key Features of Homeschooling:

• You are the teacher, administrator, and recordkeeper.

• You choose the curriculum and teaching methods.

• You set the pace and daily schedule.

• You’re responsible for meeting Florida’s homeschool requirements, including annual evaluations.

• Your child is not enrolled in a public or private school.

  
  

Homeschooling offers tremendous freedom and customization. It allows families to build an education around their child’s interests, strengths, and emotional needs. But it also requires time, planning, and a willingness to take on the full educational role.

What Is Florida Virtual School?

Florida Virtual School (FLVS) is a state-funded online public school that offers two main options:

FLVS Flex

• Students take individual courses at their own pace.

• Ideal for homeschoolers who want to supplement their curriculum or for students in traditional schools who need extra support.

• Open enrollment year-round.

• No diploma issued; FLVS is not the school of record.

• State testing is optional.

  
  

FLVS Full Time

• Students are enrolled in a full-time online public school.

• Structured schedule with daily attendance and live lessons.

• Enrollment opens twice a year (fall and spring).

• FLVS is the school of record and issues official transcripts and diplomas.

• State testing is required.

  
  

FLVS is free for Florida residents and meets state standards. It’s a great option for families who want the convenience of online learning but prefer a more traditional school structure.

🔍 Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Homeschool	FLVS Flex	FLVS Full Time
Parent-led	✅	❌	❌
Flexible schedule	✅	✅	❌
School of record	❌	❌	✅
Diploma issued	❌	❌	✅
State testing required	❌	❌	✅
Curriculum control	✅	Partial	❌
Enrollment window	Anytime	Anytime	Fall/Spring only
Live lessons	Optional	Optional	Required for most course

Questions to Ask Before Choosing

• Do I want full control over my child’s education, or do I prefer a structured program?

• Is my child self-motivated and able to work independently, or do they need more accountability?

• Do I need a state-issued diploma or transcript for college or future plans?

• Am I looking to supplement a homeschool curriculum or fully replace traditional school?

Final Thoughts

Both homeschooling and FLVS offer valuable paths — it just depends on what your family needs.

• Homeschooling gives you full control, flexibility, and the ability to tailor learning to your child’s unique needs.

• FLVS Full Time provides structure, accountability, and formal recognition through transcripts and diplomas.

• FLVS Flex offers a middle ground — great for homeschoolers who want access to high-quality courses without giving up control.

  
  

Whatever you choose, the goal is the same: helping your child learn, grow, and thrive in an environment that supports their whole development.