Homeschooling in Hawaii
Homeschooling is fully legal in Hawaii for children ages 5–18. Parents do not need teaching credentials or special qualifications.
Legal Framework: Hawaii law states: “A parent teaching the parent’s child at home shall be deemed a qualified instructor.” This means parents are automatically qualified to homeschool their own children without any certification requirements.
Requirements:
1. Notice of Intent: Parents must file a Notice of Intent to Homeschool (Form 4140) or written letter with the principal of the assigned public school before beginning instruction.
2. Record Keeping: Parents must maintain records documenting:
- Start and end dates of instruction
- Number of hours of instruction per week
- Subject areas covered
- Educational methods and materials used
3. Testing: Homeschooled students in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10 must complete and submit scores from a nationally normed standardized test or recognized aptitude assessment.
4. Annual Progress Reports: A progress report must be submitted annually to the local public school principal.
High School Diploma Options:
- Parent-Issued: Parents may issue their own high school diploma to graduating students
- DOE Diploma: Alternatively, if a homeschooled student attends public high school for a minimum of three full years and meets graduation credit requirements, they may earn a diploma from the local Department of Education school
Advanced Learning Opportunities: Homeschooled students are eligible for dual enrollment in University of Hawaii Community College courses through programs like Early College and Running Start, allowing them to earn both high school and college credit simultaneously.
Special Education Services: Homeschooled children who have been evaluated and identified as needing special education services are eligible to receive those services at their home school, even while remaining primarily homeschooled.
College and Employment Recognition: Private schools in Hawaii must be licensed by the Hawaii Council of Private Schools or accredited by recognized bodies such as WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges). Homeschool diplomas issued by parents are also recognized for college and employment purposes.
Homeschooling Statistics: The Hawaii Department of Education received approximately 4,700 homeschool notices of intent in the 2022–23 school year.
No State Funding: Hawaii does not provide ESAs or state funding for homeschool expenses. Families bear all costs for curriculum, materials, and educational resources.