Maine Homeschool Notice of Intent

Compulsory Attendance Ages

Maine requires compulsory school attendance for children ages 6 through 17 under Title 20-A, Section 5001-A. If your child turns 6 during the school year, they are subject to compulsory attendance.

Two Legal Homeschool Options

Maine offers two pathways for homeschooling. The vast majority of families use Option 1 (Home Instruction), which is the standard homeschool route.

Option 1: Home Instruction (Most Common)

This is the primary homeschool pathway in Maine, governed by Title 20-A, Section 5001-A(3)(A)(4). Here are the detailed requirements:

• Notice of Intent: File a written notice simultaneously with your local school superintendent and the Maine Commissioner of Education within 10 calendar days of beginning home instruction. This is a one-time filing -- you do not need to refile annually unless you move to a new school district.
• Required Subjects: You must provide instruction in 10 subject areas (see below).
• Instructional Days: At least 175 days of instruction per year.
• Annual Assessment: Required (see Evaluations section for options).
• Teacher Qualifications: None required.

Required Subjects

Maine requires instruction in the following 10 subject areas. This is one of the more detailed subject lists among states:

1. English and Language Arts
2. Mathematics
3. Science and Technology
4. Social Studies
5. Physical Education
6. Health Education
7. Library Skills
8. Fine Arts
9. Maine Studies (in at least one grade from 6 to 12)
10. Computer Proficiency (demonstrated in at least one grade from 7 to 12)

You have complete freedom in how you teach these subjects -- the state does not prescribe curricula, textbooks, or teaching methods.

Option 2: Equivalent Instruction Program (Private School)

Under this option, homeschooling families join together to function as a private school recognized by the state as providing equivalent instruction. Requirements include:

• The school must employ or have oversight from a certified Maine teacher.
• Students are subject to the school's own assessment and record-keeping policies.
• This option is less common but can be attractive for co-op arrangements.

Withdrawing from Public School

If your child is enrolled in a public school, file your Notice of Intent with the superintendent and the commissioner, then notify the school of your withdrawal. Maine does not have a specific withdrawal form, but put everything in writing and keep copies.