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. While Vermont has rigorous guidelines to follow, knowing the mandates is the first step to a successful and rewarding home education journey.
Vermont Homeschool Mandates
Vermont compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from ages 6 through 16. Homeschool parents are not required to meet teaching qualifications or student vaccination requirements. However, to homeschool in Vermont, parents must:
- Submit an annual Home Study Enrollment Notice to the secretary of education containing required information.
- Submit a Minimum Course of Study (MCOS) narrative outlining proposed coursework unless eligible for an exemption.
- Include plans for special services in the MCOS when homeschooling students with disabilities.
- Secure an acknowledgment of compliance from the secretary of education after filing the annual written enrollment notice.
- Teach the required subjects.
- Submit an annual assessment for each student to the secretary of education. Assessments may be in the form of a certified teacher’s written report, a parent or published curriculum report accompanied by a portfolio of student academic work, or a standardized test.
Required subjects in Vermont include:
- Reading
- Writing
- Math
- Citizenship
- History
- United States Government
- Vermont Government
- Physical Education
- Health (including the effects of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco on body systems and society)
- Literature
- Natural Sciences
- Fine Arts
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in Vermont
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 of children previously enrolled in public school must submit a copy of the previous year’s report card to the secretary of education. However, if children were not previously enrolled in a Vermont public school or Vermont homeschool, parents will need to submit an Independent Professional Evidence Reporting Form.
Special Education Provisions
Vermont requires homeschooling parents of special needs children to document plans for special education services in their annual enrollment notice. School districts are not required to provide special services to homeschool students, although some districts may elect to do so.
Record Keeping
Although Vermont homeschool laws do not include recordkeeping requirements, 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 and the school district acknowledgment of compliance
- Samples of student work
- Evaluations or standardized test scores
With a clear understanding of Vermont 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 Vermont’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.
