{"id":30976,"date":"2024-10-02T12:30:37","date_gmt":"2024-10-02T20:30:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/?p=30976"},"modified":"2024-10-02T12:30:38","modified_gmt":"2024-10-02T20:30:38","slug":"maryland-homeschooling-laws","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/homeschool\/maryland-homeschooling-laws\/30976","title":{"rendered":"Maryland Homeschooling Laws"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maryland Homeschooling Laws and Resources<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Get ready to start homeschooling in Maryland by learning your options and legal requirements. This overview includes Maryland\u2019s homeschool laws and other useful resources to help your family begin their educational journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/research\/discover-the-best-states-for-homeschooling\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/SEO-133_RankingHomeschoolStates-Maryland.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22395\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-large-font-size\"><strong>Homeschooling in Maryland<\/strong> <strong>Overview<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Notice of Intent Required: <strong>Yes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2 Options for Homeschooling: <strong>Home instruction, Umbrella School Options<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Subject or Curriculum Requirements: <strong>Yes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attendance Age Requirements: <strong>5-18<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Record-Keeping Requirements: <strong>Yes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Proof of Immunization Required: <strong>No<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"contents\">Table of Contents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Maryland Homeschooling Laws and Regulations<br><\/strong><a href=\"#options-for-homeschooling\" title=\"\">Options for Homeschooling<\/a><br><a href=\"#how-to-start-homeschooling\" title=\"\">Home Instruction<\/a><br><a href=\"#umbrella-schools-and-homeschooling\" title=\"\">Umbrella Schools<\/a><br><a href=\"#notice-of-intent\" title=\"\">Notice of Intent<\/a><br><a href=\"#qualifications-to-homeschool\" title=\"\">Qualifications to Homeschool<\/a><br><a href=\"#Mandatory-School-Age\" title=\"\">Mandatory School Age<\/a><br><a href=\"#homeschool-subject-requirements\" title=\"\">Subject Requirements<\/a><br><a href=\"#homeschool-attendance-requirements\" title=\"\">Attendance Requirements<\/a><br><a href=\"#homeschool-assessments-and-evaluations\" title=\"\">Portfolio Review<\/a><br><a href=\"#homeschool-record-keeping-requirements\" title=\"\">Record-Keeping Requirements<\/a><br><a href=\"#required-immunizations-for-homeschoolers\" title=\"\">Required Immunizations<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Resources for Homeschooling Families in Maryland <\/strong><br><a href=\"#homeschool-groups-and-co-ops\" title=\"\">Homeschool Groups and Co-ops<\/a><br><a href=\"#sports-opportunities-for-homeschoolers\" title=\"\">Sports Opportunities<\/a><br><a href=\"#homeschool-field-trips\" title=\"\">Homeschool Field Trips<\/a><br><a href=\"#special-education\" title=\"\">Special Education Homeschoolers<\/a><br><a href=\"#how-our-curriculum-can-help\" title=\"\">How Our Curriculum Can Help<\/a><br><a href=\"#homeschool-faq\" title=\"\">Homeschool FAQ&nbsp;<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"options-for-homeschooling\">Options for Homeschooling in Maryland<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Families in Maryland have a few options for homeschooling. Parents can teach their children at home or arrange to have others teach them. They can also participate in several types of umbrella schools.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Homeschool-options-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16963\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Group-9.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16957\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-start-homeschooling\">Home Instruction (Non-Umbrella School)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When families choose this option, they are responsible for all aspects of their child\u2019s home education. Legal requirements include the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>File an initial Notice of Intent to Homeschool<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Teach the required subjects<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maintain a portfolio documenting your child\u2019s education<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meet with the local superintendent or other approved reviewer up to three times a year to review your portfolio<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll find more information on each of these requirements below.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<printables-email-registration style=\"width:fit-content;display:flex;margin:auto\" class=\"wp-block-abcmouse-printables-email-registration\"><\/printables-email-registration>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"umbrella-schools-and-homeschooling\">Umbrella School Options<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An umbrella school is an organization that oversees groups of homeschool students. Typically, parents pay fees in exchange for services such as group classes, instruction monitoring, sports, field trips, and more. There are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.brighthubeducation.com\/homeschool-rules-regulations\/106901-working-with-umbrella-schools-in-maryland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">several types of umbrella schools<\/a> in Maryland:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Approved Nonpublic School<\/strong>: Umbrella schools in this category have been approved by the state to oversee homeschool education students. A certified teacher assists parents, including curriculum planning, paperwork, and student assessment and evaluation.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Church-Exempt Nonpublic School<\/strong>: These umbrella schools are not required to meet state educational standards. Therefore, students don\u2019t need to receive instruction in any required subjects. Other homeschool regulations still apply. <a href=\"https:\/\/marylandpublicschools.org\/about\/Documents\/DEE\/ApprovedNonpublicSchools\/ChurchExemptFactSheet2018.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Learn more about church-exempt nonpublic schools here.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re interested in learning more about umbrella school options in Maryland, consider contacting one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/oitinfo.msde.maryland.gov\/NSAB\/NSABSchool\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">approved umbrella schools on this list.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Umbrella-Schools.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17064\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Notice-of-Intent.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16965\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"notice-of-intent\">Home Instruction Notification Form<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Regardless of which type of homeschool option you choose, families must notify their local school superintendent of their intent at least 15 days before starting instruction. Contact your local school district to request a copy of their official notification form. Complete it, make a copy for your files, and return it to the district per their instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#d9d9d9\"><strong>TIP:<\/strong> Families must annually verify that they are continuing to homeschool. This may be part of your portfolio review process or handled by your umbrella school. Ask your local district for more information.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"qualifications-to-homeschool\">Qualifications to Homeschool in Maryland <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are no teacher requirements for homeschools in Maryland. Students may receive instruction from their parents\/guardians or contracted outside instructors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Families may also participate in \u201cco-op\u201d arrangements, where parents from each family share teaching and supervision duties. This is acceptable for part of a home education, but if an organized group of unrelated students is regularly taught by someone who isn\u2019t their parent or guardian, this could be considered an unapproved nonpublic school by law. If you have questions, work with your <a href=\"https:\/\/marylandpublicschools.org\/about\/Documents\/DSFSS\/SSSP\/HomeInstruct\/HomeSchoolCoordinators_A.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">local homeschooling coordinator<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/parent-qualifications-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17063\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/School-Age.png\" alt=\"Blue icon with the word age in the middle surrounded by two circling arrows\" class=\"wp-image-17931\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Mandatory-School-Age\">Mandatory School Age in Maryland <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maryland requires students to start school when they turn 5 and attend until they turn 18, unless they graduate earlier.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"homeschool-subject-requirements\">Maryland Homeschool Subject Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In Maryland, home instruction must provide \u201cregular, thorough instruction in the studies usually taught in public schools to children of the same age.\u201d (This does not apply to church-exempt umbrella schools.) This includes the following subjects:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>English<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mathematics<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Science<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Social studies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Art and music<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Health<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Physical education<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Parents may choose their curriculum programs, textbooks, workbooks, and other instructional materials. They can also use online curriculum programs provided by outside providers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Curriculum-Requirements.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17065\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Attendance-Requirements.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16958\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"homeschool-attendance-requirements\">Maryland Homeschool Attendance Requirements &nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maryland requires home instruction to be regular and thorough, but it does not set a required number of days or hours. You may align with your local school calendar or conduct year-round school with longer breaks. Families can also choose the schedule that works best for them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"homeschool-assessments-and-evaluations\">Maryland Homeschool Portfolio Review&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To verify homeschool students are making adequate progress each year, the local district or umbrella school must review a portfolio of student work several times each year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#d9d9d9\"><strong>TIP:<\/strong> A portfolio review usually occurs at the end of each semester but no more than three times per year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your student is making satisfactory progress, you can continue home instruction. If your student is not making satisfactory progress, you\u2019ll be given a chance to correct the issues. As long as you do, you can continue homeschooling. Otherwise, your child may be enrolled in a public or nonpublic school.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who conducts the portfolio reviews?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Families have several choices as to who reviews their student portfolios. You can work directly with the local public school superintendent or their representative. Contact your <a href=\"https:\/\/marylandpublicschools.org\/about\/Documents\/DSFSS\/SSSP\/HomeInstruct\/HomeSchoolCoordinators_A.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">district\u2019s homeschool coordinator<\/a> to learn more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also have your child\u2019s portfolio reviewed by an approved non-public school, including church-exempt schools and education ministries. See the list of <a href=\"https:\/\/oitinfo.msde.maryland.gov\/NSAB\/NSABSchool\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">approved nonpublic schools and entities<\/a> for Maryland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should the student portfolio include?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your portfolio should include evidence that your student is receiving the \u201cregular, thorough instruction\u201d required by law. You can document this with attendance records, a list of textbooks and instructional materials, grades or test scores, writing and other work samples, and more. Families may wish to talk with their portfolio reviewer in advance to learn what they\u2019ll be looking for.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Assessment.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17068\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Record-Keeping.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17067\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"homeschool-record-keeping-requirements\">Maryland Homeschool Record-Keeping Requirements&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maryland homeschool families need to maintain a portfolio for each student. Along with a collection of student work, families may also want to keep attendance records, a list of textbooks and other materials, courses and grades, and copies of evaluations and assessments.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#d9d9d9\"><strong>TIP:<\/strong> Detailed records help parents create transcripts students may need later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"required-immunizations-for-homeschoolers\">Required Immunizations for Homeschoolers in Maryland <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeschool students in Maryland are not required to follow immunization standards. Public school and private schools must abide by Maryland&#8217;s immunization guidelines, but homeschool students are not considered private students, and therefore are exempt. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Immunization.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16960\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Homeschool-Resources.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17071\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Resources for Homeschool Families in Maryland <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeschooling families often seek opportunities to enhance their children&#8217;s education, promote socialization, and empower their homeschooling journey. Families can achieve this by joining homeschool groups, co-ops, or larger associations. These connections can provide valuable resources and opportunities for homeschooling families to engage with other like-minded individuals, share ideas, and learn from each other.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote has-white-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"border-radius:43px;background-color:#0342ec;font-style:normal;font-weight:300\"><blockquote><p><em><em>Relationships with other homeschool families can create a rich and rewarding homeschooling experience.<\/em><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"homeschool-groups-and-co-ops\">Homeschool Groups and Co-ops in Maryland <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeschool families can benefit greatly from the resources and support homeschool organizations, groups, co-ops, and associations provide. Homeschool associations are typically more formal than traditional groups or co-ops and may require membership fees. These entities often offer access to events, information, resources, legal assistance, and advocacy efforts. Children and home educators will also find friendships, assistance, and guidance. We recommend checking online when you begin your search, but here are two well-known options to get you started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.mhea.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Maryland Home Education Association<\/a>: This organization has been around for over 40 years and supports the state\u2019s homeschoolers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/machemd.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Maryland Association of Christian Home Educators<\/a>: Christian families will find similar-minded homeschoolers here for support, advice, and more.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Find more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehomeschoolmom.com\/homeschooling-in-maryland\/homeschool-organizations-support-groups\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Maryland homeschool groups<\/a> at The Homeschool Mom.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Homeschool-Organization.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16954\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Homeschool-Sports.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16961\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"sports-opportunities-for-homeschoolers\">Sports Opportunities for Homeschoolers in Maryland <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maryland homeschoolers aren&#8217;t permitted to participate in sports at local public schools. Instead, they can seek out local homeschool sports leagues or participate in one of the many community youth sports programs. These offer kids competitive sports opportunities at every age and welcome homeschoolers to join. Try these youth sports options in Maryland:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Group Name &amp; Website<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td><strong>What Sports They Cover<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td><strong>What Area<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ymca.org\/find-your-y\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">YMCA Youth Sports<\/a><\/td><td>Varies by location<\/td><td>Throughout Maryland<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ravensflagfootball.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">NFL Flag<\/a><\/td><td>Flag football<\/td><td>Throughout Maryland<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.littleleague.org\/play-little-league\/league-finder\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Little League<\/a><\/td><td>Baseball, softball<\/td><td>Throughout Maryland<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.msysa.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Maryland State Youth Soccer Association<\/a><\/td><td>Soccer<\/td><td>Throughout Maryland<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/MMYFASTRONG\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Maryland Youth Football Alliance<\/a><\/td><td>Football and cheer<\/td><td>Throughout Maryland<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"homeschool-field-trips\">Maryland Homeschool Field Trips&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeschooling families can schedule field trips year-round to explore and learn in the real world. Talk with other homeschoolers to set up a larger group to qualify for discounts and special programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maryland\u2019s proximity to Washington D.C. gives you the chance to visit places like the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Smithsonian museums<\/a>, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitthecapitol.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Capitol Building<\/a>, and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">White House<\/a>. Baltimore has much to see, like the <a href=\"https:\/\/artbma.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Baltimore Museum of Art<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marylandzoo.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Maryland Zoo<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/aqua.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">National Aquarium<\/a>. History buffs can check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/anti\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Antietam National Battlefield<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/hatu\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park<\/a>. And don\u2019t forget about the many beautiful <a href=\"https:\/\/dnr.maryland.gov\/publiclands\/Pages\/parkmap.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">state parks<\/a> just waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Field-Trips.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16955\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/heart.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18136\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"special-education\">Special Education Homeschoolers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeschooling in Maryland comes with its own set of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marylandpublicschools.org\/about\/Pages\/DEE\/NPSA\/Home-Instruction.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">regulations and requirements<\/a>. When homeschooling students with special needs in Maryland, there is no provision to provide special education services to children not attending public school.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For families of students with special needs, that means that there is little chance of obtaining special education support and services should they elect to homeschool. Even though there are different paths to homeschooling in Maryland, none of them receive the special education federal or state funding that would be earmarked for students with special needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#d9d9d9\"><strong>TIP:<\/strong> Families wanting to provide special education services in Maryland must pay for them out of pocket.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-our-curriculum-can-help\"><strong>Support Your Homeschool with ABCmouse and Adventure Academy<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-advice-paragraph has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;font-style:normal;font-weight:300;line-height:1.5\">Our digital learning programs are designed by curriculum experts to assist your homeschool and children ages 2 through 13. ABCmouse is a comprehensive online educational platform for children ages 2-8, while Adventure Academy focuses on children ages 8-13. Both programs provide access to lessons on reading, language arts, math, sciences, social studies, and more. Learn more about how each program can enhance your homeschool below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group aofl-advice-list4 has-background\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-radius:15px;background-color:#e9f5ff\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color\" id=\"how-our-curriculum-can-help\" style=\"color:#01075f\"><strong>ABCmouse and Homeschooling<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-advice-paragraph has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;font-style:normal;font-weight:300;line-height:1.5\">ABCmouse offers over 10,000 learning activities and more than 850 lessons for children, plus a large digital library of books and educational puzzles, songs, activities, and worksheets. The program encourages self-paced learning with motivating rewards and includes progress tracking, which allows home educators to monitor time spent on certain subjects and the number of activities completed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group mini-reg-modal has-small-font-size\" style=\"padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80)\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-caa2d89a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background has-small-font-size\" style=\"border-radius:50px;background-color:#2d56bf;padding-right:0;padding-left:0\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-7db9d80f wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns reverse-order aofl-printable-media-text has-small-font-size is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f2a62a2b wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-left:0;flex-basis:50%\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"204\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/ABCMouse-Mice-Group-300x204.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-21574\" style=\"width:221px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/ABCMouse-Mice-Group-300x204.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/ABCMouse-Mice-Group.png 419w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center mini-reg-modal is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-right:0;flex-basis:350px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons has-custom-font-size has-medium-font-size is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-92e17da2 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-100 is-style-fill\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-element-button\" style=\"color:#6b0b00;background-color:#ffb800\"><strong>Try ABCmouse FREE<\/strong><br>for 30 Days<strong>!<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color has-small-font-size wp-elements-97d24be39b8ef15e87e91421373557d4\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\"><em>Then just $14.99\/mo. until canceled<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-advice-paragraph has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.49\">As a paid add-on to regular subscriptions, home educators can access the Assessment Center, which allows parents and caregivers to test children on their knowledge, determine successes and struggles, and receive recommended lessons based on assessments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-advice-paragraph has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.49\">ABCmouse provides a robust curriculum that can supplement other early learning lessons. It&#8217;s trusted resource that\u2019s been downloaded over 10 million times and has a 4.5-star average out of 831.4K ratings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"mini-reg-modal has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.49\"><a href=\"#mini_reg\" title=\"\">Find more information here.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Adventure Academy and Homeschooling<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-advice-paragraph has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.49\">Adventure Academy combines an interactive world with a curriculum covering reading, language arts, math, science, and social studies. With quests, games, and educational videos and activities, learning becomes an epic journey that motivates kids to explore various topics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-advice-paragraph has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.49\">For homeschooling families, Adventure Academy offers an engaging, flexible learning experience that can supplement other educational materials. The program features thousands of activities created by curriculum experts and covers all major academic domains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-advice-paragraph has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.49\">Parents and caregivers can choose academic difficulty levels and track each child\u2019s progress, seeing time spent in Adventure Academy, activities completed, and subjects studied.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized has-custom-border\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.adventureacademy.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"624\" height=\"464\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Screenshot-2024-09-27-at-9.28.09\u202fAM-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-30645\" style=\"border-radius:15px;width:476px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Screenshot-2024-09-27-at-9.28.09\u202fAM-1.png 624w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Screenshot-2024-09-27-at-9.28.09\u202fAM-1-300x223.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 624px) 100vw, 624px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-advice-paragraph has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.49\">Adventure Academy emphasizes key topics such as reading comprehension, vocabulary development, mathematical operations, fractions, world geography, American history, physical science, life science, earth science, and scientific inquiry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"aofl-advice-paragraph has-text-color\" style=\"color:#01075f;line-height:1.49\">For more information, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.adventureacademy.com\/\" title=\"\"> AdventureAcademy.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"63\" src=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-300x18.png 300w, https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4-768x47.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:15%\">\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/FAQ.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17074\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"#contents\" title=\"\">Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:85%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\" id=\"homeschool-faq\">Maryland Homeschool FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is Maryland a homeschool-friendly state?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While Maryland\u2019s homeschool laws require more oversight than some other states, families still have a lot of freedom in their homeschool choices. They can decide how to teach the required subjects and set school schedules that work for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maryland homeschool students cannot play sports or participate in classes at their local public schools. Families are responsible for all homeschooling costs, which can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year. But overall, Maryland is a fairly friendly state for homeschoolers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can Maryland homeschool students take classes or participate in extracurriculars at public schools?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The law prohibits homeschool students from participating in public school activities aside from standardized testing and Junior Reserves Officer Training Corps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do Maryland homeschoolers receive diplomas or transcripts?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeschoolers can take the GED and apply for a Maryland High School Diploma. Home educators or umbrella schools may issue their own diplomas, but they will not be certified by the state.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#d9d9d9\"><strong>TIP:<\/strong> Home educators and umbrella schools are also responsible for creating transcripts. Keeping detailed academic records makes creating transcripts easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is unschooling legal in Maryland?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Unschooling is legal in all 50 states, including Maryland, provided the education program meets all the state\u2019s laws and requirements.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-small-font-size\" id=\"short-legal-disclaimer\"><em>Legal Disclaimers<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-small-font-size\" style=\"color:#0342ec;letter-spacing:1.5px\"><em>\u201cThe information and materials provided are for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal, or other professional advice.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-small-font-size\" style=\"color:#0342ec;letter-spacing:1.5px\"><em>Any links provided to third-party resources are provided for convenience only. We do not sponsor or endorse, and are not affiliated with such parties, unless explicitly stated otherwise. We do not maintain or control these websites. Information presented on these sites may not be current or accurate \u2013 it is your responsibility to determine its accuracy and usefulness. By clicking on the links provided, you understand that you may be subject to additional terms and conditions and the privacy policies of such third parties.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-small-font-size\" style=\"color:#0342ec;letter-spacing:1.5px\"><em>Age of Learning makes no representation and assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of information contained on, or available through, this website, or its suitability for any purpose, and such information is subject to change without notice. You are encouraged to confirm any information obtained from or through this website with other sources, and review all information regarding any information with a trained legal professional.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-small-font-size\" style=\"color:#0342ec;letter-spacing:1.5px\"><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In Maryland, homeschooling requires a notice of intent, teaching core subjects, and maintaining a portfolio for review. Families can choose home instruction or umbrella schools. Homeschoolers can&#8217;t join public school sports but can participate in community leagues and field trips.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":30977,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[99],"tags":[98],"class_list":["post-30976","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-homeschool","tag-homeschool-laws"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30976","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=30976"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30976\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/30977"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=30976"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=30976"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=30976"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}