Taking the plunge into homeschooling can feel intimidating. From lesson plans to curriculum choices to compliance with state laws, it can feel like there is a lot to coordinate. However, understanding state homeschool requirements brings families one step closer to enjoying the freedom that homeschooling affords. New Hampshire recognizes the rights of parents to educate their own children.
While New Hampshire has rigorous guidelines to follow, knowing the mandates is the first step to a successful and rewarding home education journey.
New Hampshire Homeschool Mandates
New Hampshire compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from ages 6 through 18. Homeschool parents are not required to meet teaching qualifications or student immunization requirements. However, to set up a home education program in New Hampshire, parents must:
- File an initial notice of intent to homeschool within five days of beginning a homeschool program or moving to a new school district.
- Teach the required subjects.
- Maintain a portfolio of required educational materials for each student for two years.
- Submit their students to annual testing or evaluation according to state guidelines.
- Notify the department of education if their children will graduate from the home education program before turning 18.
- File a written notice of termination with the school district within 15 days of ending a homeschool program.
Required subjects in New Hampshire include:
- Government
- Health
- History
- History of the New Hampshire Constitution
- History of the United States Constitution
- Language
- Math
- Reading
- Science
- Spelling
- Writing
- Art and Music Appreciation
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in New Hampshire
If your children currently attend a public or private school, you will need to withdraw them to homeschool. In many cases, sending a withdrawal letter by certified mail to your school district will suffice. Parents must file a notice of intent when beginning a home education program.
Special Education Provisions
New Hampshire has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. Local school districts may provide homeschooled students access to special education programs.
Record Keeping
New Hampshire homeschool laws require parents to maintain an educational portfolio for each child. The portfolio should contain:
- A reading log
- Samples of student work
Additionally, it is wise to keep a file for each student containing:
- Attendance records
- Information on subjects taught and curriculum used
- School district correspondence, including forms filed
- Standardized test scores and evaluations
With a clear understanding of New Hampshire homeschool laws and the wide availability of resources, homeschooling doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. LightSail’s comprehensive language arts platform provides children with the tools to grow reading, writing, and vocabulary skills. At the same time, LightSail’s built-in assessments and progress-tracking capabilities give parents peace of mind about meeting New Hampshire’s homeschool requirements.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice. State laws are constantly changing. Consult an attorney or call your state’s Department of Education for any questions regarding the legalities of homeschooling.
