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. To be accepted as an approved or recognized form of education, Massachusetts homeschools must follow rigorous guidelines.
Massachusetts Homeschool Mandates
Massachusetts compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from ages 6 through 16. There is no immunization requirement for homeschoolers. However, many school districts in Massachusetts call for homeschool parents to:
- File an initial and annual notice of intent with the school district.
- Teach required subjects for elementary and high school.
- Maintain appropriate records containing assessments and work samples.
- Agree upon a method of testing or evaluation with the school district.
The school district may look for the following information in the annual notice of intent to homeschool:
- An education plan containing the intended curriculum and hours of instruction
- Parental competency, although advanced degrees are not required
- Textbooks and instructional materials for comparison to district materials
- A proposed method of evaluation or testing
Massachusetts law requires age-appropriate instruction in these subjects:
- Spelling
- Reading
- Writing
- English
- Geography
- Math
- Drawing
- Music
- U.S. History
- U.S. Constitution
- Citizenship
- Health and CPR
- Physical Education
- Good Behavior
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Massachusetts
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. You will also need to file a notice of intent to homeschool.
Special Education Provisions
Massachusetts has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. However, homeschool students may be able to receive the same special education services available to private school students.
Record Keeping
Other than requiring appropriate evaluation records, the state of Massachusetts does not have specific record-keeping requirements for homeschools. However, it is wise to maintain a file for each student containing:
- Records of the required evaluations or assessments
- School district correspondence
- Attendance records
- Information on the texts and educational materials used
- Samples of the child’s work
With a clear understanding of Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts’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.
