Michigan Homeschool Notice of Intent

Legal Framework

Michigan homeschooling is governed by MCL 380.1561, the state's compulsory attendance law. The law provides two distinct pathways for legal homeschooling, each with different levels of regulation. Understanding the difference is critical because it determines what paperwork you need and what qualifications (if any) you must hold.

Option 1: Home Education Exemption -- Section 1561(3)(f)

This is the simpler and more popular option. Under this exemption, a child is excused from compulsory attendance if the child is being educated at home by a parent or legal guardian in an "organized educational program" in the required subject areas.

Key features of Option 1:

• No notification required. You are not legally required to inform your school district that you are homeschooling. However, the Michigan Department of Education suggests notifying the district with a phone call or written note to avoid truancy flags and unnecessary contact.
• No teacher qualifications. You do not need a degree or teaching certificate.
• No record-keeping mandated by law. Though keeping records is strongly recommended.
• No testing required. There are no mandatory assessments.

Option 2: Nonpublic School Registration -- Section 1561(3)(a)

Under this option, your homeschool operates as a registered nonpublic school. This pathway has more requirements but offers certain advantages, such as easier access to dual enrollment programs.

Key features of Option 2:

• Annual notification required. At the beginning of each school year, you must provide the local or intermediate superintendent with: each enrolled child's name and age, the school district where you operate, the parent's name and address, and information about any child not in regular attendance.
• Teacher qualifications required. The parent-teacher must hold at least a bachelor's degree or a current Michigan teaching certificate. However, this requirement is waived if you have a religious objection to teacher certification.
• Comparable subjects. You must provide instruction in subjects comparable to those taught in the public schools.
• Basic record-keeping. You should maintain attendance and enrollment records.

Required Subjects (Both Options)

Michigan law requires instruction in the following subject areas:

• Reading
• Spelling
• Mathematics
• Science
• History
• Civics
• Literature
• Writing
• English grammar

How to Start

1. Choose your option. Most Michigan families choose Option 1 for its simplicity. Choose Option 2 if you hold a degree and want the benefits of nonpublic school registration (such as easier dual enrollment access).
2. Withdraw your child (if enrolled). Contact the school office and formally withdraw your child. Keep a copy of the withdrawal documentation.
3. Notify (Option 2 only). If you choose Option 2, submit the required information to your local or intermediate superintendent.
4. Notify informally (Option 1 recommended). While not required, a brief written note or phone call to the district prevents truancy officers from showing up at your door.
5. Begin teaching. Cover the required subjects using your chosen curriculum or approach.