Connecticut offers a relatively flexible environment for homeschooling families. The state does not have a specific ‘homeschool statute’; instead, homeschooling operates under the state’s compulsory attendance law, which requires parents to ensure their children receive ‘equivalent instruction’ to what is provided in public schools.

The Legal Landscape

In Connecticut, the responsibility for education rests with the parent under Connecticut General Statutes Section 10-184. This law dictates that parents must provide instruction in specific subjects but does not outline a rigid oversight process.

It is important to distinguish between state statutes (the law) and Department of Education guidelines (recommendations). The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) issues guidelines that suggest a specific notification and review process. While many school districts treat these as mandatory, legal experts often note that the guidelines do not have the force of law, though following them is the simplest way to demonstrate compliance.

Compulsory Attendance Ages

Children in Connecticut must receive instruction from age 5 to 18.

• Opt-out Provision: Parents of 5- and 6-year-olds can opt-out of formal schooling for those years by visiting the local school district office and signing an option form.
• Withdrawal at 17: A student can officially stop schooling at age 17 if the parent or guardian provides consent at the school district office.

The Homeschooling Pathway: Instruction by Parent

There is one primary pathway for homeschooling in Connecticut: providing instruction as a parent or designated teacher.

1. The Notice of Intent (NOI)

Although the law doesn’t explicitly require it, the CSDE ‘suggests’ that parents file a Notice of Intent within 10 days of beginning their homeschool program. This form is typically sent to the local Superintendent of Schools. Filing this document is highly recommended as it clearly establishes that your child is being educated, protecting you from potential truancy inquiries.

2. Required Subjects

To meet the ‘equivalent instruction’ standard, your curriculum must include:

• Reading
• Writing
• Spelling
• English Grammar
• Geography
• Arithmetic
• United States History
• Citizenship (including the study of town, state, and federal governments)

3. Record Keeping and Assessment

There is no state-mandated testing for homeschoolers in Connecticut. However, the state guidelines recommend an Annual Portfolio Review. This is a meeting with a school official where the parent demonstrates that ‘equivalent instruction’ is occurring by showing samples of the student’s work. Many families choose to provide a brief summary or log instead of a full in-person meeting, and since this is a guideline rather than a statute, the level of cooperation varies by district.

Step-by-Step Compliance

1. Withdraw your child (if applicable): If your child is currently in public school, notify the school in writing that you are withdrawing them to homeschool.
2. File the Notice of Intent: Complete the NOI form (available on most district websites or through homeschool organizations like HSLDA) and mail it to your superintendent via certified mail, return receipt requested.
3. Plan your Curriculum: Ensure you are covering the eight required subjects.
4. Keep Records: Maintain a portfolio of work, even if you do not plan to meet for a review. This should include work samples, a log of instruction days (aim for 180), and any testing results you choose to administer privately.
5. Annual Renewal: File a new Notice of Intent each year by the anniversary of your start date or by the beginning of the school year.

School Choice and Financial Assistance

Connecticut does not currently offer Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), vouchers, or tax credits for homeschooling families. All costs associated with homeschooling—including curriculum, supplies, and testing—are the responsibility of the parents. There are currently no programs that allow state education funds to follow the student to a home-based environment.

Helpful Resources

• Connecticut State Department of Education Homeschooling Page
• Connecticut General Statutes Section 10-184
• HSLDA Connecticut State Page