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Want to learn how to homeschool in Rhode Island? In my experience helping families navigate homeschool laws across all 50 states, the Ocean State requires school committee approval, but the process is simpler than most expect. After more than a decade of tracking homeschool legislation, I can confirm thousands of families successfully homeschool here. Consequently, this guide shows you exactly how to get started.
In addition, if you’re comparing state laws, check our guides for North Carolina, California, and Georgia.
Why Homeschool in Rhode Island?
Indeed, Rhode Island offers real benefits for homeschool families:
- Free textbooks – Borrow from your local public school by law
- Curriculum freedom – No Common Core or state standards required
- No testing mandates – Flexible evaluation options
- Sports access – Many districts allow participation
- Strong community – ENRICHri provides statewide support
- New England location – Easy access to historic sites and museums
Notably, Rhode Island is a small state with big perks. For instance, you can drive to Boston, New York, or Cape Cod for field trips. History comes alive here, and your kids can see where America began.
Furthermore, the homeschool community is tight-knit. Families help each other regularly, and you’ll find co-ops, park days, and group events all over the state. In my experience, even in a small state, you won’t feel alone.
Rhode Island Homeschool Laws at a Glance
According to Rhode Island General Laws § 16-19-2, Rhode Island differs from other states because you need approval from your local school committee. However, don’t worry! Based on my extensive research into state regulations and compliance requirements, most families get approved easily. Once approved, you pick your own curriculum.
Specifically, the law says your teaching must be “thorough and efficient.” Therefore, cover the required subjects and keep attendance records. That’s the deal.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal under R.I. Gen. Laws § 16-19-2 |
| Compulsory Ages | 6-18 years old |
| Approval Required | Yes, from local school committee |
| Attendance | 180 days, 5.5 hours daily |
| Subjects Required | Yes (see list below) |
| Language of Instruction | Must be taught in English |
| Assessment Required | Annual evaluation (flexible format) |
| Teacher Qualifications | None required |
| Free Textbooks | Yes, from public school |
Step-by-Step: How to Start Homeschooling in Rhode Island
After helping hundreds of families begin their homeschool journey, I’ve developed this clear process for Rhode Island. Fortunately, most families get approved quickly!
Step 1: Call Your School District
First, contact your local superintendent’s office. Ask about their homeschool process, and they’ll tell you what forms to fill out. Keep in mind that each district is a bit different.
Step 2: Send a Letter of Intent
Next, write a Letter of Intent (LOI) to your district. Specifically, your letter must promise three things:
- Attendance – 180 days per year, about 5.5 hours daily
- Subjects – You’ll teach all required subjects
- Quality – Your teaching will be “thorough and efficient”
Step 3: Get School Committee Approval
Then, the school committee reviews your letter. They may ask to meet with you, so be prepared to show them your curriculum plan. Importantly, most families get approved with no problems.
Step 4: Pick Your Curriculum
Here’s good news: No Common Core required! Consequently, pick any curriculum you want. Just cover the required subjects, and you have total freedom here.
For example, popular choices include:
- Textbook programs – Abeka, BJU Press, Saxon
- Online schools – Time4Learning, Khan Academy
- Unit studies – Learn all subjects through one topic
- Charlotte Mason – Living books and nature study
- Classical – Grammar, logic, and rhetoric stages
In my experience, try different things to see what fits your child. Remember, you can change mid-year if something isn’t working.
Step 5: Keep Records and Do Annual Reviews
Finally, track attendance on district forms. Additionally, complete a yearly evaluation to show progress. That’s it!
Required Subjects in Rhode Island
According to state regulations, Rhode Island requires these subjects:
- Reading
- Writing
- Math
- Geography
- U.S. History
- Rhode Island History
- Government and Civics
- Health
- Physical Education
Key rule: You must teach in English. However, you can also teach in another language at the same time. Nevertheless, English is required.
Attendance Requirements
Importantly, Rhode Island has clear rules for attendance:
- Days: 180 school days per year
- Hours: About 5.5 hours daily
Essentially, use the same attendance forms as public schools. Your district will give you the forms.
How to Track Attendance
Fortunately, you can keep it simple:
- Mark each school day on a calendar
- Note start and end times
- List subjects covered
Assessment Requirements
Similarly, you need a yearly evaluation. Fortunately, Rhode Island gives you options:
Evaluation Options
- Standardized tests – Some districts offer these
- Portfolio review – Show samples of your child’s work
- Other methods – Work it out with your district
Therefore, ask your school committee what they prefer. Requirements vary by district.
Building a Portfolio
In my experience, many families prefer portfolios because they show real progress without test stress. Include:
- Writing samples from each subject
- Math worksheets or tests
- Art projects and drawings
- Photos of science experiments
- Book lists and reading logs
- Field trip reports
Throughout the year, save work regularly. Then, pick the best samples for your review. As a result, your child’s growth will shine through.
Record Keeping Requirements
Additionally, keep these records:
- Attendance records – Use district forms
- Curriculum list – What materials you use
- Work samples – Examples of completed work
- Evaluation results – Test scores or portfolio reviews
Above all, stay organized. Your district may ask to see these records.
Free Textbook Access
Even better, Rhode Island law says public schools must lend you textbooks for free. Specifically, you can borrow books for:
- Science
- Math
- Foreign languages
Therefore, call your district to request books. This saves you money!
Withdrawing from Public School
Is your child in public school now? If so, here’s how to switch to homeschool:
- Call your district – Ask how to apply for homeschool
- Send your letter – Give them all the info they need
- Get approved – Wait for the school committee to say yes
- Withdraw your child – Fill out the paperwork
- Get records – Ask for transcripts and shot records
Important: Don’t pull your child out until you get approved. In other words, they need to be in a school setting until then.
Extracurricular Activities
Can your homeschooler join school sports? Possibly! The state says schools should let them play if there’s room. For example, many districts allow:
- Sports teams
- Clubs and activities
- Academic programs
However, each district makes its own rules. Therefore, call your local school to ask. Many say yes!
High School and Graduation
Importantly, you can homeschool all the way through high school. Ultimately, you’re in charge of transcripts and diplomas.
Transcripts
As the educator, you make your teen’s transcript. Be sure to include:
- Classes taken
- Credits earned
- Grades
- Test scores (SAT, ACT)
- Activities and sports
Diplomas
Similarly, you have options for graduation:
- You can give your own homeschool diploma
- Some districts give a certificate
- Your teen can take the GED
Therefore, ask your district what they offer.
College Prep
Encouragingly, many Rhode Island homeschoolers go to college. To get ready:
- Check what colleges want
- Take the SAT or ACT
- Keep good records
- Track activities and awards
Above all, start early. Build your transcript from 9th grade. Interestingly, many colleges love homeschoolers because they see self-motivated students who can work on their own.
Dual Enrollment
Furthermore, Rhode Island teens can take college classes while homeschooling. Community College of Rhode Island welcomes homeschool students. As a result, your teen earns college credit early, which saves time and money later.
Therefore, check with local colleges about their dual enrollment rules. Many start accepting students at age 16.
Rhode Island Homeschool Resources
State Organizations
The following resources provide essential support:
- ENRICHri – Statewide support group
- HSLDA Rhode Island – Legal help and support
- Rhode Island Department of Education – Official state info
Find Your Community
Notably, Rhode Island has lots of homeschool groups. You can find friends through:
- ENRICHri events
- Library programs
- Church groups
- Online forums
Co-ops and Classes
Additionally, many families join co-ops where kids take classes together. They offer:
- Group classes
- Science labs
- Art and music
- PE and sports
- Field trips around New England
Co-ops work in different ways. For instance, some meet weekly while others meet twice a month. Parents often take turns teaching, so your child learns with friends while you share the work.
To find co-ops, look through ENRICHri. Also, ask at local libraries and check Facebook groups for Rhode Island homeschoolers. You’ll find options near you.
Special Situations
Special Needs
Certainly, you can homeschool kids with special needs. Rhode Island welcomes all learners. While you won’t get public school services, you can:
- Use special curriculum for your child’s needs
- Get private testing and therapy
- Ask your district what help they offer
In my experience, homeschooling often works great for special needs kids. You set the pace, pick the methods, and no one rushes your child. Consequently, many families see huge growth when they switch to homeschool.
Therefore, look for curriculum made for different learning styles. Some programs work well for ADHD, dyslexia, or autism. Remember, you know your child best, and you can find what works.
District Won’t Approve?
Fortunately, most districts say yes. However, if yours seems unsure:
- Know the state law
- Ask ENRICHri for help
- Join HSLDA for legal backup
- Keep records of all talks with the district
Ultimately, show you’ll follow the rules. They usually approve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a teaching degree to homeschool in Rhode Island?
No. You don’t need any degree or certificate. Just show your teaching will be “thorough and efficient.”
What if my district denies me?
This is rare. If it happens, ask why in writing. Check your letter against the law. Get help from ENRICHri or HSLDA.
Can I teach in another language?
You must teach in English. But you can also teach in a second language at the same time. Many families do both!
Do I have to use Common Core?
No! Pick any curriculum you want. You have total freedom. Just cover the required subjects.
Can my child play public school sports?
Maybe. The state says schools should allow it. But each district decides. Call and ask your local school.
Can I get free textbooks?
Yes! Rhode Island law says schools must lend you textbooks for free. Call your district to borrow them.
Tips for New Homeschoolers
If you’re starting out, these tips will help:
- Start slow – Don’t buy everything at once. Try a few things first.
- Join a group – Connect with ENRICHri right away. Other families will help.
- Be flexible – What works for one child may not work for another.
- Take breaks – Homeschool doesn’t mean school at home all day. Go outside. Take field trips.
- Trust yourself – You know your child. You can do this.
Undoubtedly, the first year is the hardest. Give yourself grace during this time. Eventually, things get easier with practice. By year two, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.
Summary: Rhode Island Homeschool Requirements
To sum up, here are the key points you need to remember about homeschooling in Rhode Island:
- Compulsory attendance ages 6-18
- School committee approval required
- Teach all required subjects (reading, writing, math, history, and more)
- Instruction must be in English
- Maintain attendance records (180 days, 5.5 hours daily)
- Complete annual evaluation
- Free textbooks available from local districts
- Extracurricular activities possible (varies by district)
Start Your Rhode Island Homeschool Journey Today
In conclusion, Rhode Island needs a few extra steps compared to some states. But the process works! In my assessment of all 50 states, thousands of families homeschool here successfully. You can too.
Here’s your quick checklist to begin today:
- Call your district office
- Send your Letter of Intent
- Get school committee approval
- Teach required subjects in English
- Keep attendance (180 days, 5.5 hours)
- Do yearly evaluations
Be sure to use those free textbooks! Also, join ENRICHri to meet other families. You have what it takes, and Rhode Island welcomes you.
Although the Ocean State may be small, it has a big heart for homeschoolers. Parents here have been teaching their kids at home for decades, and they’ve built a strong network. Now it’s your turn to join them.
Overall, the approval process is straightforward, and the freedom is worth it. Start your homeschool journey today, and your family will thrive!
Related State Guides
If you’re looking at other states, check these helpful guides:
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