Dear Ms. Topp,
I found your website while trying to research information on hiring a private homeschool instructor for a friend of mine. She’s a single parent who adopted a girl from Russia. She’s having a little bit of a problem in public school and I thought it might be a good idea to homeschool her for her middle school years at least to focus on her language skills and other abilities.
Can you point me to some information on whether she can even hire a homeschool instructor to work with her daughter? I know this may sound crazy, but I keep thinking what her daughter needs is a governess. Or maybe I’ve read too many Bronte and Austen novels. Any help you could provide would be most appreciated.
Sincerely,
G.A.
Dear G.A.
I think you are absolutely correct in using the term governess to describe your friend’s situation.
I have a blog post titled “Is It a Homeschool Co-op or Mary Poppins?” that addresses a similar question.
I have been asked questions similar to yours several times, so it not an unusual idea. It is quite an old idea as you references (Jane Eyre is a favorite!)
I would direct your friend to do research in three areas:
1. Her state homeschool laws and see if a non-parent is allowed to instruct a child. I imagine it is allowed, she may just have to report the governess’ name and subjects covered on an annual basis (we do here in Ohio, for example)
2. Employer laws in your state. A local CPA would be helpful here. The governess may be considered a household employee and that has easier tax reporting requirements (like annually, not quarterly filing). Employer taxes (Social Security and Medicare) will need to be paid.
3. Perhaps consult with an attorney to draw up an employment agreement. Perhaps a professional tutor or nanny/au pair service in your area may have sample agreements to use as a guide.
I hope that helps!
Carol Topp, CPA
