Maine Homeschool State Laws

Please note that laws and regulations may have changed since this update, so it’s essential to verify the information with the official sources or consult a legal professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

In Maine, homeschooling is referred to as “home instruction.” The state has specific regulations that govern the process. Here’s a summary of the key points regarding homeschooling in Maine:

• Notification: Parents or legal guardians who intend to homeschool their child must submit a written notice of their intent to the superintendent of the local school district. This notice should include the names and ages of the children being homeschooled, as well as a statement of the qualifications of the instructor.
• Qualifications: Maine does not impose specific qualification requirements for parents or instructors. However, it is generally expected that the instructor has a high school diploma or its equivalent.
• Curriculum: Homeschooling families in Maine must provide an equivalent education to what is offered in public schools. While there are no specific curriculum requirements, the instruction should cover subjects such as mathematics, English language arts, social studies, science, physical education, health, and art.
• Assessment: Maine law requires an annual assessment of the homeschooled child’s academic progress. Parents can choose from various assessment options, including standardized tests administered by a certified teacher, a portfolio review conducted by a certified teacher, or an evaluation by another person agreed upon by the parent and the superintendent.
• Records: Parents are responsible for maintaining records of their homeschooling activities, including attendance records, samples of student work, and any test results or evaluations. These records should be kept for at least three years.
• Withdrawal and Reentry: If a child is enrolled in public school and the parents decide to homeschool, they must formally withdraw the child from the school. If the child decides to reenter public school later, they may be required to undergo an evaluation or testing to determine appropriate grade placement.

It’s important to note that Maine’s homeschooling regulations may have additional requirements or nuances, so it’s recommended to consult the official Maine Department of Education website or contact local school authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information on homeschooling in the state.

Updated October 2023