Want to learn how to homeschool in Maine? Good news for families in the Pine Tree State! Maine makes homeschooling easy with moderate rules. You have two paths to choose from. Both give you freedom to teach your way.
This guide covers everything you need to know about how to homeschool in Maine. You’ll learn the steps to start, what subjects to teach, and how to show progress each year. By the end, you’ll feel ready to begin your Maine homeschool journey with confidence.
Maine Homeschool Laws at a Glance
Maine has fair rules that balance freedom with basic checks. If you want to learn how to homeschool in Maine, you’ll find the state trusts parents to teach well. Here’s a quick look at what’s required:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal under Title 20-A, Chapter 211 |
| Compulsory Ages | 6-17 years old |
| Notification | One-time notice within 10 days of starting |
| School Days | 175 days per year |
| Subjects Required | Yes (see list below) |
| Assessment | Yearly, due by September 1 |
| Teacher Requirements | None |
| Records | Keep copies until program ends |
| Public School Access | Yes – classes, clubs, and sports |
How to Homeschool in Maine: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started is simple. Maine only asks for one notice at the start. You don’t file each year unless something changes.
Step 1: Check Your Child’s Age
Maine’s school law applies to kids ages 6 through 16. Some exceptions exist. Students who have graduated don’t need to comply. Kids age 15 with parent and school board approval may also be exempt.
If your child is younger than 6, you can teach at home without any paperwork.
Step 2: File Your Notice of Intent
Within 10 days of starting, send a notice to your local superintendent. Your letter must include:
- Your name, address, and signature
- Your child’s name and age
- The date you will start teaching
- A promise to teach 175 days each year
- A promise to send a yearly assessment
Great news: This is a one-time filing. You don’t send a new notice each year. Only file again if you move or add a new child.
Step 3: Pick Your Curriculum
Maine gives you total freedom to choose your teaching materials. This is one of the best parts of learning how to homeschool in Maine. Use textbooks, online programs, or hands-on projects. Mix and match what works best. The state does not approve or review your choices.
Many Maine families explore different homeschool methods to find their perfect fit. Some use traditional textbooks. Others try unit studies or online programs. You can also use a mix of both. Start with one approach and adjust as you learn what works.
Popular curriculum choices for Maine families include:
- All-in-one programs like Sonlight or My Father’s World
- Online schools like Time4Learning or Khan Academy
- Charlotte Mason style with living books
- Classical education with Latin and logic
Step 4: Teach 175 Days Per Year
Maine law requires 175 school days each year. You choose how to schedule them. Follow a traditional calendar or school year-round. Take breaks when your family needs them.
Step 5: Submit Your Yearly Assessment
By September 1 each year, send proof of progress to your superintendent. You have several options to choose from. See the assessment section below for details.
Required Subjects in Maine
Maine law lists these subjects for home instruction:
- English and language arts
- Math
- Science and technology
- Social studies (history, geography, economics, civics)
- Physical education
- Health
- Library skills
- Fine arts (art and music)
- Maine studies (once in grades 6-12)
- Computer skills (once in grades 7-12)
Don’t worry about teaching every subject each year. The rules allow you to spread them out. Maine studies and computer skills only need to be covered once during the listed grades.
Annual Assessment Options
Maine requires yearly proof that your child is learning. Understanding the assessment options is key when learning how to homeschool in Maine. You pick the method that works best for your family.
Option 1: Certified Teacher Review
Have a Maine certified teacher look at your child’s work. They write a letter saying progress is good. You can hire a teacher or find one through a homeschool group.
Option 2: Advisory Board Review
Submit work to a local board made up of:
- Two homeschool parents with experience
- One school official
The board reviews the portfolio and writes a letter confirming progress.
Option 3: Standardized Testing
Give your child a national standardized test. Send the official results. Common tests include:
- Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS)
- Stanford Achievement Test
- California Achievement Test
- Woodcock-Johnson
There’s no minimum score needed. The results just need to show progress.
Option 4: Local School Test
Ask your superintendent about taking a test made by local school staff. This option may work well if you have a good relationship with your district.
Record Keeping Requirements
Maine’s record rules are simple. Keep copies of:
- Your notice of intent
- Each yearly assessment
Hold onto these until your homeschool program ends. The state may ask to see them. Good news: all records you submit stay private.
Pro tip: Save samples of your child’s work each year. This helps with assessments and builds a record of their learning journey.
Many families keep a simple binder for each child. Add samples of writing, math work, and art projects. Include photos of science experiments and field trips. This makes assessment time much easier.
Your Homeschooling Options in Maine
Maine offers two legal paths for teaching at home:
Option 1: Home Instruction (Most Popular)
This is what most families choose. The steps are simple:
- File your notice with the superintendent
- No teaching degree needed
- Teach 175 days per year
- Send a yearly assessment
- Pick any curriculum you want
Option 2: Private School
You can set up a home-based private school instead. This path has different rules and may require teacher credentials. Most families find Option 1 easier and more flexible.
Access to Public School Services
Maine stands out by letting homeschoolers join public school programs. This is one of the best perks for Maine families.
Academic Classes
Your child can take classes at your local public school. This works great for advanced courses, lab sciences, or foreign languages.
Extracurricular Activities
Homeschoolers can join clubs and activities at their local school. Art club, debate team, band—all options are open to you.
Sports Teams
Maine law protects homeschoolers’ right to play public school sports. Your child can try out for any team. They must meet the same rules as enrolled students.
Compare this to Texas homeschool laws, where sports access varies by district.
Special Education Services
Homeschooled students who take classes at public school can get special education help through that school.
Tip: Call your local school to learn how to sign up for these programs.
Withdrawing from Public School
Want to pull your child from public school? Follow these steps:
- File your Notice of Intent with the superintendent within 10 days
- Tell the school you’re withdrawing your child
- Get your records including transcripts and shot records
- Return school items like textbooks and devices
Once your notice is on file, you’re legal. The school cannot stop you from leaving. Similar to Ohio’s homeschool process, the superintendent cannot reject a proper notice.
High School and Graduation
Planning to homeschool through high school? Here’s what you need to know.
Creating Transcripts
You make your own transcript listing:
- Courses completed
- Credits earned
- Grades given
- Test scores (SAT, ACT)
- Activities and sports
Graduation Requirements
You set your own rules for graduation. Research:
- College admission needs for schools your teen may attend
- Maine public school graduation rules as a guide
- Job requirements for careers that interest your student
Homeschool Diplomas
Parents issue their own diplomas in Maine. This is valid for college and jobs. Some colleges may ask for extra documents from homeschool applicants. Keep detailed records starting in 9th grade to make transcript creation easier.
Maine Homeschool Resources
State Organizations
- Homeschoolers of Maine (HOME) – Statewide support with portfolio reviews and legal help
- HSLDA Maine – Legal info and member support
- Maine Department of Education – Official forms and rules
Support Groups
Maine has active homeschool groups across the state. Find local support through:
- Homeschoolers of Maine chapters
- Library homeschool programs
- Church-based groups
- Facebook groups for Maine homeschoolers
Co-ops and Classes
Many Maine families join co-ops for group learning:
- Classes in various subjects
- Science labs
- Art and music programs
- PE activities
- Field trips around Maine
Special Situations
Special Needs Students
Maine welcomes homeschooling for kids with special needs. While you won’t get automatic public school services, you have options:
- Enroll part-time in public school for services
- Hire private therapists
- Use curriculum designed for different learning styles
Many resources exist to help families homeschool children with special needs.
Military Families
Maine accepts homeschool records from other states. Moving to Maine? File your notice with your new superintendent and keep teaching.
Moving to Maine
New to Maine from another state? File your notice within 10 days of starting instruction here. Bring your records from your previous state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a teaching degree to homeschool in Maine?
No. Maine has no education requirements for parents. You don’t need a teaching certificate or college degree to teach your own kids.
How many hours per day must I teach?
Maine doesn’t set daily hours. Just provide 175 days of instruction per year. You decide how long each day lasts.
Does my curriculum need approval?
No. Maine does not require curriculum approval. Your notice confirms you’ll cover required subjects. You pick all materials on your own.
Can my homeschooled child play sports at the local public school?
Yes! Maine law lets homeschoolers join public school athletic programs. Contact your local athletic director to learn about tryouts.
What if the superintendent rejects my notice?
A superintendent cannot reject a proper notice. If you get pushback, check that your notice has all required items. Groups like HSLDA and Homeschoolers of Maine can help if problems arise.
How much does homeschooling cost in Maine?
Costs vary widely. You can spend $200 to $2,000 per child each year. Free resources like libraries and online programs help keep costs low. Many families spend about $500 to $800 per year on curriculum and supplies.
Can I homeschool year-round in Maine?
Yes! Maine only requires 175 days of instruction. You choose when to teach those days. Many families prefer year-round schooling with shorter breaks throughout the year. Others follow a traditional September to June calendar.
What records should I keep for college applications?
Start keeping detailed records in 9th grade. Save transcripts with course names and grades, standardized test scores, work samples, and a list of activities. Many Maine colleges have homeschool-friendly admissions processes. Contact your target schools early to learn their specific requirements.
Start Your Maine Homeschool Journey Today
Now you know how to homeschool in Maine! The process is simple. Maine’s laws offer a great balance of freedom and structure. Simple notice requirements, flexible subject rules, and access to public school programs make it an excellent state for home education.
Here are your key steps:
- File your notice within 10 days of starting
- Pick curriculum covering required subjects
- Teach 175 days per year
- Submit your assessment by September 1 each year
- Keep copies of all documents
Whether you like traditional textbooks, nature-based learning, or an eclectic mix, Maine gives you the freedom to teach your way.
Connect with local homeschool groups early in your journey. Experienced families can share curriculum tips, co-op information, and assessment help. The Homeschoolers of Maine organization offers great resources for new and veteran homeschoolers alike.
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