Homebased or Homebound Instruction
Homebased or Homebound instruction is designed to meet the needs of children who are confined to their homes because of medical or emotional disorders. Homebound instruction enables such children to continue their education program while at home. It is intended that a child receive homebound services only temporarily until their medical condition allows them to return to the regular classroom or until an appopriate placement is determined.
While no specific number of days can be set due to the many complex variations in cases, the “temporary” requirement is based on the premise that instruction should take place in the school setting to the fullest extent possible. Educational and physical modifications may be attempted before students are placed on homebound instruction. The goal is always to return the student to the school setting as soon as possible. Homebound instruction is not intended to supplant school services and is by design temporary.
Students may be found eligible for homebound instruction if medical evidence shows that the student is physically or emotionally unable to attend the regular public school. Eligibility is determined on the basis of information submitted by a physician, psychiatrist or licensed clinical psychologist.
Below is clarification of terminology specific to children receiving special education services who receive services in the home.
"Homebound Instruction" means academic instruction provided to students in the home setting (or other agreed upon location) who are unable to attend school for extended periods of time that would prevent normal school attendance based upon certification of need by a physician, psychiatrist, or licensed clinical psychologist. For a child receiving special education services, the IEP must be amended to reflect the homebound placement, including the number of hours of service.
"Homebased Instruction" means academic instruction provided to students in the home setting (or other agreed upon location) in accordance with the child's IEP. The IEP must be amended to reflect the homebased placement, including the number of hours of service, before the service can begin. In certain situations, homebased may be provided for special education students who have been suspended from school or for students who are waiting for another educational placement to be arranged.
For more information regarding Homebound Instruction, contact your child's school counselor.