![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/SEO-133_RankingHomeschoolStates-Massachusetts.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nHomeschooling in Massachusetts Overview<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\nNotice of Intent Required: Yes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n1 Option for Homeschooling: Home Education<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nSubject or Curriculum Requirements: Yes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nAttendance Age Requirements: 6-16<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nRecord-Keeping Requirements: No<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nAssessments or Evaluations Required: Yes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nProof of Immunization Required: No<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nTable of Contents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\nMassachusetts Homeschooling Laws and Regulations
<\/strong>How to Start Homeschooling<\/a>
Notice of Intent<\/a>
Qualifications to Homeschool<\/a>
Mandatory School Age<\/a>
Subject Requirements<\/a>
Record-Keeping Requirements<\/a>
Evaluations and Assessments<\/a>
Required Immunizations<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nResources for Homeschooling Families in Massachusetts <\/strong>
Homeschool Groups and Co-ops<\/a>
Sports Opportunities<\/a>
Homeschool Field Trips<\/a>
Special Education Homeschoolers<\/a>
How Our Curriculum Can Help<\/a>
Homeschool FAQ\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/BlueDot-Separator-4.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Group-9.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nHow to Start Homeschooling in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Massachusetts law requires homeschoolers to seek advance approval of their proposed education program from their local school district committees. Each district committee has policies and procedures for homeschoolers, and they can vary across the state. If you decide to homeschool in Massachusetts, you must begin by contacting your local school committee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The local school committee reviews homeschool plans and progress to verify that \u201cinstruction in all the studies required by law equals in thoroughness and efficiency, and in the progress made therein, that in the public schools in the same town.\u201d In other words, you\u2019ll likely be required to teach required subjects at a similar level to those offered in your local public schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You must renew your homeschool approval annually and will need to provide proof that your child is making adequate progress at home. Again, the required proof varies by district policy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nNotice of Intent for Homeschooling in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When you decide to homeschool, you must notify your local school district committee in advance and receive approval. Do not start instruction until your district provides this approval.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Start by sending a written notice of intent to homeschool your child to the local school district, including relevant contact information. They will respond by providing their policies and requirements. You\u2019ll need to submit your proposed educational plans for the upcoming school year, possibly including the following information:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Subjects and curriculum plans or programs for teaching them<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A list of textbooks, workbooks, online programs, and other instructional aids or materials<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The form\/s of assessment you will use to measure progress<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The local district can accept your proposal, request modifications, or reject it. Allow time for this process since homeschooling your child without approval does not waive attendance requirements, and they will be considered truant if not attending public school. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
TIP:<\/strong> Start the notification process well before the beginning of the school year, or wait to withdraw your child until you have the necessary approval.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn most districts, you\u2019ll be required to repeat this process each year, including providing proof of your child\u2019s adequate progress from the previous year.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Notice-of-Intent.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/parent-qualifications-1.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nQualifications to Homeschool in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Massachusetts law doesn\u2019t state-specific requirements for parents or guardians who homeschool their children. Your local district may ask you to list any qualifications you have.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAll you need to homeschool is a passion for your child\u2019s education and a willingness to put in the time and effort it requires.<\/em>
<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nMandatory School Age in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Children must receive a formal education from the first school year in which they turn 6 by December 31st and until they turn 16.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"Blue](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/School-Age.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Curriculum-Requirements.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nMassachusetts Homeschool Subject Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Homeschoolers in Massachusetts must receive an education \u201cin all the studies required by law.\u201d These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Spelling, reading, writing, English language, and grammar<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Geography<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Arithmetic<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Drawing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Music<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- United States history (including the constitution) and duties of citizenship<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Health (including CPR) and physical education<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Home educators can propose any curriculum plan or program they like to cover these topics, but the school district committee must approve it. You might find it helpful to consult the Massachusetts Instructional Frameworks<\/a> as you research potential curriculum programs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nMassachusetts Homeschool Record-Keeping Requirements <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Massachusetts doesn\u2019t require home educators to keep specific records, but your local district may have record requirements. In any case, keeping good records makes it easier to create transcripts for your child or transition them to public school if needed. Consider maintaining some or all of these:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Attendance records<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Courses taken and grades received<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- List of curriculum programs, textbooks, educational materials, etc.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Evaluations and assessment results<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A portfolio of representative work samples<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Keep these at home unless your local district asks for copies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Record-Keeping.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Assessment.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nMassachusetts Homeschool Assessments and Evaluations <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Your local school district committee will likely request an annual evaluation of your child\u2019s progress to ensure they\u2019re learning at an appropriate rate for their age and ability. This varies by district and could include (but is not limited to) the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Standardized testing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A review of a portfolio of work samples<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- An evaluation performed by a teacher certified for the grade level and\/or subjects<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
TIP:<\/strong> You and your local district must agree in advance on the form of assessment or evaluation you will provide. This is part of your annual approval process.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nRequired Immunizations for Homeschoolers in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Children who take classes or participate in activities at local schools may need to comply with immunization requirements. Otherwise, the law does not apply to homeschoolers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Immunization.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Group-6.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBack to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\nHomeschool Organizations Groups and Co-ops<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Homeschooling families often seek opportunities to enhance their children’s education, promote socialization, and empower their homeschooling journey. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These groups provide resources statewide. Here are two options to get you started:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Massachusetts Home Learning Association:<\/a> This group can help you navigate the process with your local district, find curriculum and educational resources, join social events, and more.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- MassHOPE<\/a>: This Christian-based group holds an annual convention and provides useful services like educator IDs and homeschool graduations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The Homeschool Mom has a big list of local Massachusetts homeschool groups here.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\nSports Opportunities for Homeschoolers in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Homeschoolers can participate in sports activities in many of Massachusetts\u2019 school districts. Reach out to your local school district to learn about their policies and requirements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Homeschool students can also join homeschool sports leagues or one of the many community youth sports programs. Here are some to consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1 Option for Homeschooling: Home Education<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Subject or Curriculum Requirements: Yes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Attendance Age Requirements: 6-16<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Record-Keeping Requirements: No<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Assessments or Evaluations Required: Yes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Proof of Immunization Required: No<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Massachusetts Homeschooling Laws and Regulations Resources for Homeschooling Families in Massachusetts <\/strong> Massachusetts law requires homeschoolers to seek advance approval of their proposed education program from their local school district committees. Each district committee has policies and procedures for homeschoolers, and they can vary across the state. If you decide to homeschool in Massachusetts, you must begin by contacting your local school committee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The local school committee reviews homeschool plans and progress to verify that \u201cinstruction in all the studies required by law equals in thoroughness and efficiency, and in the progress made therein, that in the public schools in the same town.\u201d In other words, you\u2019ll likely be required to teach required subjects at a similar level to those offered in your local public schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You must renew your homeschool approval annually and will need to provide proof that your child is making adequate progress at home. Again, the required proof varies by district policy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n When you decide to homeschool, you must notify your local school district committee in advance and receive approval. Do not start instruction until your district provides this approval.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Start by sending a written notice of intent to homeschool your child to the local school district, including relevant contact information. They will respond by providing their policies and requirements. You\u2019ll need to submit your proposed educational plans for the upcoming school year, possibly including the following information:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The local district can accept your proposal, request modifications, or reject it. Allow time for this process since homeschooling your child without approval does not waive attendance requirements, and they will be considered truant if not attending public school. <\/p>\n\n\n\n TIP:<\/strong> Start the notification process well before the beginning of the school year, or wait to withdraw your child until you have the necessary approval.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In most districts, you\u2019ll be required to repeat this process each year, including providing proof of your child\u2019s adequate progress from the previous year.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Massachusetts law doesn\u2019t state-specific requirements for parents or guardians who homeschool their children. Your local district may ask you to list any qualifications you have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n All you need to homeschool is a passion for your child\u2019s education and a willingness to put in the time and effort it requires.<\/em> Children must receive a formal education from the first school year in which they turn 6 by December 31st and until they turn 16.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Homeschoolers in Massachusetts must receive an education \u201cin all the studies required by law.\u201d These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Home educators can propose any curriculum plan or program they like to cover these topics, but the school district committee must approve it. You might find it helpful to consult the Massachusetts Instructional Frameworks<\/a> as you research potential curriculum programs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Massachusetts doesn\u2019t require home educators to keep specific records, but your local district may have record requirements. In any case, keeping good records makes it easier to create transcripts for your child or transition them to public school if needed. Consider maintaining some or all of these:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keep these at home unless your local district asks for copies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Your local school district committee will likely request an annual evaluation of your child\u2019s progress to ensure they\u2019re learning at an appropriate rate for their age and ability. This varies by district and could include (but is not limited to) the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n TIP:<\/strong> You and your local district must agree in advance on the form of assessment or evaluation you will provide. This is part of your annual approval process.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Children who take classes or participate in activities at local schools may need to comply with immunization requirements. Otherwise, the law does not apply to homeschoolers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Back to Top<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Homeschooling families often seek opportunities to enhance their children’s education, promote socialization, and empower their homeschooling journey. <\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These groups provide resources statewide. Here are two options to get you started:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Homeschool Mom has a big list of local Massachusetts homeschool groups here.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Homeschoolers can participate in sports activities in many of Massachusetts\u2019 school districts. Reach out to your local school district to learn about their policies and requirements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Homeschool students can also join homeschool sports leagues or one of the many community youth sports programs. Here are some to consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nTable of Contents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/strong>How to Start Homeschooling<\/a>
Notice of Intent<\/a>
Qualifications to Homeschool<\/a>
Mandatory School Age<\/a>
Subject Requirements<\/a>
Record-Keeping Requirements<\/a>
Evaluations and Assessments<\/a>
Required Immunizations<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Homeschool Groups and Co-ops<\/a>
Sports Opportunities<\/a>
Homeschool Field Trips<\/a>
Special Education Homeschoolers<\/a>
How Our Curriculum Can Help<\/a>
Homeschool FAQ\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nHow to Start Homeschooling in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNotice of Intent for Homeschooling in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nQualifications to Homeschool in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMandatory School Age in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMassachusetts Homeschool Subject Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMassachusetts Homeschool Record-Keeping Requirements <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMassachusetts Homeschool Assessments and Evaluations <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nRequired Immunizations for Homeschoolers in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHomeschool Organizations Groups and Co-ops<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSports Opportunities for Homeschoolers in Massachusetts <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Homeschool-Sports.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Field-Trips.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/heart.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/ABCMouse-Mice-Group-300x204.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.abcmouse.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Screenshot-2024-09-27-at-9.28.09\u202fAM-1.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.homeschoolplus.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/FAQ.png\")
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