Massachusetts Homeschool Notice of Intent

The Legal Foundation

Homeschooling in Massachusetts is governed by General Laws Chapter 76, Section 1 (MGL c. 76, §1), which provides an exception from mandatory school attendance for "a child who is being otherwise instructed in a manner approved in advance by the superintendent or the school committee." The landmark Care and Protection of Charles case (1987) established the framework courts and school districts use to evaluate homeschool programs, requiring education that is equal in "thoroughness, efficiency, and progress" to that of the local public schools.

Prior Approval Is Required

Unlike many states, Massachusetts requires you to obtain approval before you begin homeschooling. You must submit an education plan to your local superintendent or school committee. Each district has its own policies on approval, so the process and level of scrutiny can vary significantly from one town to the next.

Your education plan should include:

• The subjects you plan to teach and proposed curriculum
• The number of hours of instruction (minimum 900 hours over 180 days)
• Your competency as a parent-teacher (no degree required, but you may be asked about your approach)
• Textbooks and materials you intend to use
• Your proposed method of assessment

The superintendent cannot reject your plan simply because it differs from the public school curriculum. They may evaluate it, but per the Charles decision, they cannot impose requirements that are "too burdensome" on the family.

Required Subjects

Massachusetts law requires instruction in the following areas, matching what public schools are expected to teach:

• Reading
• Writing
• English language and grammar
• Mathematics (arithmetic)
• Geography
• History and Constitution of the United States
• Duties of citizenship
• Health (including CPR instruction)
• Physical education
• Drawing
• Music
• Good behavior

You choose how to cover these subjects. There are no mandated textbooks, curricula, or pacing requirements.

Teacher Qualifications

Massachusetts does not require homeschool parents to hold a teaching certificate, college degree, or any specific credential. The Charles ruling specifically noted that parents do not need college or advanced degrees. However, your superintendent may ask about your qualifications as part of the approval process — this is allowed as long as it is not used as the sole basis for denial.

Notification and Withdrawal

If you are pulling your child from public school, you should submit your education plan and notify the school of your intent to homeschool before withdrawing. Start by contacting your local school district to understand their specific submission process and timeline. Some districts require submission before the start of the school year; others accept plans on a rolling basis.

Hours of Instruction

Massachusetts requires a minimum of 900 hours of instruction over 180 days per school year. This averages to about 5 hours per day, though many homeschool families find that focused one-on-one instruction covers material more efficiently than classroom time.