Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. While we strive to keep the information accurate and up to date, government policies and procedures may change over time. Families are encouraged to verify current requirements directly with the appropriate agency. If you encounter difficulties or have questions related to homeschooling and government agencies in Puerto Rico, please contact TCHERs for guidance.

Suggested Guidelines and Agency Policies

Since its founding, TCHERs has worked to promote meaningful changes within both government agencies and private institutions regarding the lack of policies that recognize and serve homeschooling families.

Over the years, we have collaborated with:

Social Security Administration

Health insurance providers

Puerto Rico Department of Education

Puerto Rico Department of the Family

Puerto Rico Department of Health

Universities (including the University of Puerto Rico, Inter American University, and others)

Through countless phone calls, letters, meetings, and administrative hearings, we have encouraged these institutions to revise existing policies—or create new ones—that acknowledge the homeschooling community and, whenever possible, recognize the authority of parents to direct the education of their children at home.

Although significant progress has been made in several areas, there is still a need for additional policies and better training for agency personnel regarding homeschooling. If you experience any difficulties with a government agency or private institution, please feel free to contact us.

For detailed information regarding procedures and agency-specific guidelines, we encourage you to attend or review the Homeschooling 101 orientation.

Note: We say "whenever possible" because eligibility for certain government benefits may require families to meet specific legal responsibilities. For example, TCHERs successfully worked with the Puerto Rico Department of the Family so that parents may certify their own homeschooling status when applying for the Nutritional Assistance Program (PAN). However, the agency reserves the right to request additional documentation if it determines that further verification is necessary.

If You Are Contacted by a Government Official

Although homeschooling is legal in Puerto Rico, it is sometimes misunderstood due to a lack of public awareness.

If you are contacted by a government agency, we suggest the following:

Remain calm, courteous, and ask the reason for the phone call or visit.

Even though you have nothing to hide, you are not required to invite a government official into your home simply because they request to enter.

Do not provide information beyond confirming that you are homeschooling your children.

Ask for the official's name, agency, and telephone number.

Inform the official that you, your attorney, or your legal representative will contact them to answer any questions at their office or another mutually agreed-upon location outside your home.

An allegation of educational neglect does not constitute an emergency, and you have the right to maintain the privacy of your home. For that reason, we recommend following the guidance above.

If the visit is part of an investigation involving an allegation of child abuse or neglect, the investigating official has a legal responsibility to carry out that investigation. In those circumstances, you may wish to contact a qualified attorney or legal representative for assistance.