How to Homeschool in Maine

How to start homeschooling in Maine

Maine parents begin by:

• Notifying their local school superintendent in writing of their intent to homeschool before the start of each school year or within 10 calendar days of withdrawing a child mid-year.

This notification establishes compliance with state requirements for children ages 6 through 17 and triggers the basic recordkeeping expectations defined by law.

Homeschooling laws in Maine and requirements

Maine law requires families to provide instruction comparable to public schools for at least 175 days per year. The legally required subjects are:

• English and language arts
• Math
• Science
• Social studies
• Library skills
• Fine arts
• Health education
• Physical education
• Maine studies (done once between grades 6 and 12)
• Computer proficiency (done once between grades 7 and 12)

After the first year, every continuing student must complete an academic assessment. The assessment must consist of ONE of the following:

• State-approved standardized test
• Portfolio review. This review can be performed by:
  • A Maine-certified teacher
  • A homeschool support group that has a Maine-certified teacher helping conduct reviews
  • Arrangements made with your local school at the beginning of the school year for an advisory board consisting of one school official and two homeschool teachers

Maine homeschooling programs and curriculum

Families in Maine may choose independent homeschooling, enroll under umbrella programs offered by private schools, or participate in cooperative groups that share classes and resources. Independent homeschoolers enjoy the freedom to select mastery-based, multisensory curricula such as

• All About Reading for systematic phonics and fluency
• All About Spelling for step-by-step spelling mastery
• All About Math for concrete, hands-on math understanding

Umbrella and cooperative programs provide additional structure through shared lesson plans, group instruction, and extracurricular activities.

Free homeschooling in Maine

Maine homeschoolers can access no-cost resources through public library digital collections, open educational platforms like Khan Academy, and cooperative materials exchanges among state homeschool groups.

The All About Learning Press Free Resources page offers downloadable activities and teaching tips at no cost, providing help for reading, spelling, and math.

Is Maine homeschool-friendly? Maine balances freedom with accountability, but the process is fairly straightforward: submit an annual notification, meet the subject and days requirements, and submit an annual academic assessment. With a little work, you can have a great homeschool journey!

Local support groups, from Portland to Bangor, offer field trips, co-op classes, and social events that connect families and enrich the learning experience.

Final encouragement

As you embark on your Maine homeschooling adventure, remember to file your notice, teach at least 175 days, complete the required annual assessment, and draw inspiration from the state’s natural beauty and supportive communities.

Celebrate each “aha” moment, trust in your creative approach, and let the rugged coastline and forest trails fuel your learner’s curiosity. You’re ready to begin!

If you’re new to homeschooling or want tips from veteran homeschoolers, check out these free resources:

• How to Start Homeschooling
• Free Resources for Teaching at Home
• 7 Tips for Staying Organized
• 6 Inexpensive Ways to Build Your Home Library
• I’m Thinking About Homeschooling, but…
• What I Wish I Knew Before Homeschooling

FAQ

Disclaimer:

All information is current as of August 2025. This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) for official guidance.