California Education Code & Regulations

California Education Code § 48200

California law requires children between the ages of 6 and 18 to attend school full-time unless legally exempt.

This establishes the foundation of compulsory education in the state and applies to all students unless enrolled in an approved educational alternative.

California Education Code § 48204

Students may meet compulsory education requirements by attending:

• Public schools

• Charter schools

• Private full-time day schools

• Instruction by a credentialed tutor

• Other legally recognized equivalent instruction

This allows families flexibility in selecting alternative educational settings such as private academies.

California Education Code § 48222

Parents may comply with compulsory education laws by enrolling their student in a private full-time day school that meets California requirements.

This includes properly operating private institutions that comply with state regulations.

California law allows parents/guardians to withdraw a student from one school and enroll them in another eligible educational program at any time during the school year. No special approval process is required beyond standard enrollment procedures.

Schools are required to process withdrawal requests and release student records in accordance with state law.

California Education Code § 48202

When a student transfers schools:

• Records must generally be forwarded within 5 school days after a request

• Receiving schools must be provided with necessary academic and immunization records

• This ensures uninterrupted educational placement

California Education Code § 48980

Schools are required to annually notify parents/guardians of their rights, including:

• Educational options

• Attendance and enrollment requirements

• School policies and procedures

• Parent/guardian decision-making authority

California Education Code § 33190

Private schools operating in California are required to file an annual Private School Affidavit with the California Department of Education.

This filing:

• Establishes the school as a private educational institution

• Confirms compliance with state reporting requirements

• Must be renewed each school year

Almond Blossom Academy’s Affidavit will be presented at our initial consultation, and is available upon request.

California Education Code § 48224

Private schools must provide instruction in the branches of study required by California law, ensuring students receive instruction comparable in scope to state educational standards.

This supports academic consistency while allowing flexibility in curriculum design.

California Education Code § 33109

Private educational institutions maintain the authority to structure instructional programs, staffing, and educational methods, provided they comply with applicable state laws and required subjects.

This supports innovation and flexibility in private school models.

California outlines required areas of study for middle and high school education, including subjects such as:

• English

• Mathematics

• Science

• Social sciences

• Physical education

• Fine arts or foreign language (varies by grade level)

Private schools use these guidelines to ensure students receive a comprehensive academic program.

At Almond Blossom Academy, we will tailor each requirement to fit your future goals.

Title 5, Division 1, Chapter 2, Subchapter 2, Article 3

The California Code of Regulations (Title 5) provides detailed administrative rules governing private schools, including:

• Recordkeeping requirements

• Instructional standards

• Compliance expectations

• Reporting and operational procedures

These regulations work alongside the California Education Code to define how private schools operate within the state.