Maryland is a state with a well-defined legal framework for homeschooling, offering parents a balance of autonomy and accountability. Under Maryland law, homeschooling is referred to as “Home Instruction.” The primary goal of the state’s regulation is to ensure that children receiving home instruction get an education that is of “regular, thorough instruction” in the subjects usually taught in public schools to children of the same age.

Compulsory Attendance in Maryland

In Maryland, children must receive formal education starting in the calendar year they turn five by September 1st. This requirement continues until the child reaches the age of 18.

Early Childhood Exception: If a parent feels a five-year-old is not ready for school, they may file a one-year waiver with the local school system to delay the start of compulsory education until age six.

The Three Pathways to Homeschooling

Maryland law (COMAR 13A.10.01) provides parents with three distinct options for supervision and oversight. Regardless of the pathway, you must file a “Home Instruction Notification” form with your local superintendent at least 15 days before you begin homeschooling.

1. Local School System (LSS) Oversight

This is the most common pathway. In this option, the parent acts as the primary teacher and is supervised directly by the local public school district.

• Notification: Yearly notification to the local superintendent.
• Portfolio Review: Parents must maintain a portfolio that demonstrates the student is receiving regular instruction. A school official will review this portfolio at least once, but no more than three times, per year.
• Testing: Standardized testing is NOT required, though the local school system must allow your child to participate in state-mandated testing at the local school if you request it.

2. Church-Based Umbrella Schools

Parents may choose to be supervised by a non-public school that is governed and operated by a bona fide church organization.

• Oversight: The “umbrella” school handles the supervision instead of the local school district.
• Requirements: The umbrella school must provide pre-enrollment conferences, site visits, and periodic conferences with parents to ensure instruction is happening.
• Benefit: Parents are exempt from the local school system’s portfolio review process.

3. State-Approved Non-Public School Umbrella

Similar to the church-based option, parents can enroll in a program supervised by a private school that has a “Certificate of Approval” from the Maryland State Board of Education.

• Oversight: The approved non-public school provides supervision, curriculum assistance, and review.
• Notification: You must still file the initial notification with your local school district, indicating that you are under the supervision of an approved non-public school.

Required Subjects

Maryland law requires that your home instruction program includes the following subjects:

• English
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies
• Art
• Music
• Health
• Physical Education

Record Keeping: The Portfolio

If you choose the Local School System pathway, your portfolio is your primary means of demonstrating compliance. A valid portfolio should include:

• A log or instructional plan
• Samples of the student’s writings
• Worksheets and workbooks
• Creative materials (art projects, etc.)
• Tests or assessments created by the parent

Step-by-Step Compliance Guide

1. Submit Notification: Complete the Home Instruction Notification form and send it to your local county’s Home Instruction Coordinator 15 days before starting.
2. Choose Oversight: Decide if you want to be reviewed by the county (LSS) or join an umbrella school.
3. Plan Curriculum: Ensure your curriculum covers all eight required subjects.
4. Maintain Records: If under LSS, keep samples of work in a folder or binder throughout the year.
5. Attend Reviews: If under LSS, respond to the district’s request for a portfolio review (usually once per semester).
6. Annual Verification: Re-verify your intent to continue homeschooling each year by notifying the local superintendent.

School Choice and ESA Programs

Currently, Maryland does not have an Education Savings Account (ESA) or a tax credit program that applies to homeschoolers. The BOOST program provides vouchers, but these are specifically for tuition at participating private schools and cannot be used for homeschooling expenses.

Graduation and Diplomas

Maryland does not award a state high school diploma to homeschooled students. Parents or umbrella schools issue their own diplomas and transcripts. These documents are generally accepted by colleges and employers, but some families choose to have their child take the GED to receive a state-recognized high school equivalency diploma.

Reference Links

• Maryland Department of Education - Home Instruction Page
• COMAR 13A.10.01 (Official Regulations)
• HSLDA Maryland State Profile