Homeschooling in Massachusetts
Homeschooling in Massachusetts is a legal educational option, allowing parents to provide home-based education with school district approval. Massachusetts does not provide state funding for homeschooling expenses.
Legal Status: Homeschooling is legal and recognized as private education in Massachusetts. Parents must obtain approval from their local school district before beginning.
State Funding: None. Massachusetts does not provide state funding, vouchers, or ESAs for homeschooling expenses. Families are financially responsible for all curriculum and materials.
Requirements:
1. Notice of Intent and Educational Plan:
- Submit a Notice of Intent to homeschool to your local school district
- Submit an Educational Plan outlining your proposed curriculum and teaching methods
- Submit before beginning homeschool instruction
- District reviews and approves your plan
2. Required Subjects: Massachusetts requires instruction in the following subjects:
- Reading
- Writing
- English
- Grammar
- Geography
- Mathematics
- Science
- Art
- Music
- History
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Technology
You design the curriculum but must cover these subject areas.
3. Assessment and Progress:
- Provide evidence of educational progress to the school district
- Assessment methods vary (portfolio review, standardized testing, progress reports, evaluations)
- District determines acceptable assessment methods
Typical Costs: Families bear all costs for homeschooling, which can range from minimal (using free resources and library materials) to several thousand dollars per year depending on curriculum choices, online programs, tutoring, and educational activities.
District Approval Process:
- Contact your local school district’s superintendent’s office
- Request information about the district’s homeschool approval process
- Submit Notice of Intent and Educational Plan
- District reviews and approves (or requests modifications)
- Begin homeschooling once approved
- Provide ongoing progress reports as required by district
Access to Public School Services: Policies vary by school district. Some districts may allow homeschooled students to participate in certain public school programs, extracurricular activities, or sports. Under Massachusetts law, homeschooled students have a right to special education services. Contact your local school district for specific information.
Important Considerations:
- District approval is required – you cannot simply withdraw your child and begin homeschooling
- Districts have oversight authority and can request modifications to your educational plan
- Lack of compliance can result in truancy proceedings
- Homeschooling requires significant parental time commitment
- No state financial assistance is available
Resources for Homeschooling Families:
- Local homeschool cooperatives and support groups
- Massachusetts Homeschool Organization of Parent Educators (MassHOPE)
- Online curriculum providers
- Library resources and educational materials