Homebound instruction is designed to provide continuity of educational services between the classroom and home. Homebound instruction is not intended to supplement school services and is by design temporary. Students MUST be enrolled in a Norfolk Public School in order to receive homebound services. A new homebound application must be completed at the start of the new school year.   Homebound instruction shall be made available to students who are confined at home or in a health care facility for periods that would prevent normal school attendance because of a mental or physical health condition based upon certification of need by a licensed physician, or licensed clinical psychologist/ psychiatrist.

Medical homebound instructional services are available to eligible students whose documented medical needs (physical or mental health) prevents regular school attendance; or it if is anticipated that s/he will be absent for a specific period of time exceeding fifteen or more consecutive days (or three weeks) of school; this includes students who are pregnant.

The Board of Education through the regulations establishing Standards for Accrediting Public Schools in Virginia requires in 8 VAC 20-131-180 that:

Homebound instruction shall be made available to students who are confined at home or in a health care facility for periods that would prevent normal school attendance based upon certification of need by a licensed physician or licensed clinical psychologist. For students eligible for special education or related services, the Individualized Education Program committee must revise the IEP, as appropriate, to direct off-site instruction. Credit for the work shall be awarded when it is done under the supervision of a teacher licensed by the Board of Education and meets the requirements of 8 VAC 20-131-110.

Eligible students may be approved for up to nine weeks (or 45 school days) of homebound instruction based upon the medical and/or mental health recommendations of the treating physician/psychologist/psychiatrist.

Extension of services beyond the nine weeks requires the submission of a medical extension form from the physician or licensed clinical psychologist/psychiatrist verifying the continuing need. This form must be requested from the Homebound Program Specialist, Anna Frassmann-Swadinsky.

If there are any questions please contact Anna Frassmann-Swadinsky at afraswa@nps.k12.va.us 757-628-3950 ext. 21107 or by fax 757-628-3825 Attn: Anna Frassmann-Swadinsky