What to know about homeschooling in Connecticut

What if learning could look more like your child’s curiosity and less like a rigid checklist? Homeschooling in Connecticut gives you room to explore what education can be when it’s guided by your child’s needs and your own goals as a parent.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from how to get started to what records you’ll need. It’s a starting point to help you feel equipped and excited about what comes next.

Homeschooling options in Connecticut

Connecticut recognizes a parent’s right to take charge of their child’s education at home. There’s only one formal path for homeschooling in the state, and you can shape it to suit your child’s needs.

Independent homeschooling

In Connecticut, homeschooling means withdrawing your child from public school and becoming their primary educator. You can choose your own materials and pace. While you’re not legally required to register, the state recommends submitting a “Notice of Intent” form and following a suggested portfolio review process. This helps show your local district that your child is learning in essential areas like English, math, and science.

What about other learning options?

Virtual public schools and private online academies in Connecticut may offer at-home learning, but they aren’t considered homeschooling under state law. If your child is enrolled in one of these programs, they’re still part of a school system and must meet that school’s policies.

Requirements for homeschooling in Connecticut

Connecticut gives families the freedom to homeschool with minimal oversight, but there are still a few steps that help keep things on track. While the process is relatively simple, knowing what’s expected can help you feel more prepared and confident from the start.

Filing paperwork with your district

While not legally required, most families file a Notice of Intent with their local school district each year. This simple one-page form lets the district know that your child will be homeschooled. Once it’s submitted, they may also ask you to participate in an optional annual portfolio review to show progress. You’re free to decline, but many parents find that filing the form keeps communication smooth and avoids misunderstandings later on.

Attendance and curriculum guidelines

As the homeschooling parent, you have full control over how and when your child learns. The state doesn’t mandate a set schedule or require a specific curriculum, but your instruction should cover a basic set of subjects: reading, writing, math, science, social studies, U.S. history, and citizenship. You can choose any teaching materials or methods that make the most sense for your child.

Who can teach at home

Connecticut doesn’t require homeschool instructors to hold any specific credentials. That means you can teach your child yourself, or include help from tutors, online courses, or learning pods if that fits your goals. The important part is that you’re overseeing your child’s learning and making sure they stay engaged.

Recordkeeping suggestions

You don’t need to submit records to the state, but it’s a good idea to keep a simple portfolio of your child’s work. This could include sample assignments, attendance notes, reading lists, or anything else that shows their progress. It’s especially helpful if you decide to transition back to public or private school down the road.

Testing and assessments

Connecticut doesn’t require homeschooled students to take standardized tests, so you can choose how to track your child’s learning in a way that fits your style. Some parents keep work samples or use informal assessments like written reflections or end-of-unit reviews. 

Homeschool with Outschool

Homeschooling in Connecticut gives you the freedom to explore learning in a way that works for your child and your schedule. Outschool is here to make that journey a little smoother with live, online classes that blend academic structure with creativity and fun.

Here’s how Outschool can support your homeschool journey in Connecticut:

• Choose from flexible class times that work with your family's routine
• Find lessons that cover both core subjects and creative electives
• Create social opportunities through small-group, teacher-led sessions
• Keep organized with easy access to class summaries and records
• Spark curiosity with topics that go beyond the traditional curriculum

Whether you're looking to build out your child’s core studies or just add something fresh to the week, Outschool gives you the tools to keep learning personalized and engaging.

How to get started

Connecticut’s homeschooling process is simple, and you stay in charge from the very beginning. That said, you may encounter optional procedures that some districts encourage, so it’s helpful to know what to expect.

Here’s what to do as you get started:

• Decide on your curriculum and subjects. Connecticut expects you to cover reading, writing, spelling, English grammar, geography, arithmetic, U.S. history, and citizenship (including local, state, and federal government). You get to choose the materials and teaching approach that work best for your child.
• Know your rights. You’re not legally required to contact the school district or file any paperwork before starting. For detailed information, you can visit the CT Department of Education website.
• Optional: Submit a Notice of Intent. If you choose to file, use the Connecticut Department of Education’s official form and submit it within 10 days of beginning your homeschool program. Deliver it in person or send it by Certified Mail with a return receipt, and keep a signed copy for your records.
• Optional: Participate in a portfolio review. Some districts may invite you to an annual meeting to review your child’s progress. This is also optional. If you decide to participate, prepare samples that show work done in the required subjects and follow the same submission guidelines as with the Notice of Intent.
• Keep good records for your own reference. Even though the state doesn’t require official documentation, many families find it helpful to maintain lesson plans, work samples, or progress notes, especially for high school planning.

Starting your homeschool journey in Connecticut is as simple as choosing your path and getting started. With the right information and a plan that fits your child, you’re already on your way.

Find support through homeschool communities in Connecticut

Being part of a homeschool community can make all the difference in your journey. Across Connecticut, families connect through statewide organizations and local groups to share resources, plan activities, and build lasting friendships.

Statewide organizations

These groups offer guidance, legal information, and opportunities to connect with other homeschoolers throughout Connecticut:

• Connecticut Homeschool Network (CHN): An inclusive, statewide network providing resources, legal updates, and community connections for all homeschooling families.
• CT Homeschoolers Inclusive: A statewide group that welcomes families of all backgrounds, educational philosophies, and beliefs. They facilitate online discussions and occasional in-person gatherings.
• SEA Homeschoolers - A global community for homeschoolers that provides comprehensive resources and hosts both online and offline conferences. 

Local groups and co-ops

Connecting with local groups can provide in-person support, co-op classes, and social opportunities:

• Homeschool Connect CT Tweens and Teens: If you’re raising a tween or teen, this group offers frequent meetups across the state (from museum tours and hikes to crafts, holiday parties, and more). It’s a great way for older kids to stay social and active.
• Shoreline Homeschoolers of Connecticut: This inclusive group supports families along the shoreline with social gatherings, field trips, support meetings, and access to educator discounts. It’s a welcoming space no matter your homeschool style.
• Family Strong Homeschool Social Club: Located in and around Shelton, this group brings together families for regular social, educational, and parent-focused events. If you’re nearby, it’s a great place to build lasting connections.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about homeschooling in Connecticut

Here’s a quick roundup of common questions parents have when getting started with homeschooling in Connecticut. If you’re feeling unsure about the process, these answers can help clear things up and give you more confidence moving forward.

Do I need to notify the state if I decide to homeschool my child in Connecticut?

You’re not legally required to notify your local school district, but many families choose to submit a Notice of Intent. This optional form lets the district know you’re homeschooling and outlines your basic plan. It can help avoid confusion, but it’s not a request for approval.

What subjects am I expected to teach my child if I homeschool in Connecticut?

Connecticut expects homeschoolers to cover the basics: reading, writing, spelling, English grammar, geography, arithmetic, U.S. history, citizenship, and a study of government at the town, state, and federal levels. How you teach these is up to you. There’s no state-mandated curriculum or materials list.

Am I required to test my child or show proof of academic progress?

No standardized tests or evaluations are required by law for homeschoolers in Connecticut. Some families choose to keep samples of work or records in case they’re ever needed for transitions or future applications, but this is entirely up to you.

Can my homeschooled child participate in public school sports or extracurriculars in Connecticut?

Generally, homeschooled students are not allowed to join public school sports teams under Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) rules. However, individual schools may allow participation in other extracurriculars like clubs or music groups, so it’s worth asking your district directly.

Do I have to attend a portfolio review or annual meeting with the school district?

Some districts might invite you to a portfolio review to go over what you’ve taught, but it’s optional. If you decide to participate, you can choose to mail or hand-deliver a brief portfolio with samples of work in the required subjects.

What if my child wants to return to public school after being homeschooled?

Your local school district will decide how to place your child, often based on age, work samples, or assessments. Keeping informal records, even if not required, can make that process smoother and give you peace of mind if your plans change later.

Make learning feel like home

Homeschooling in Connecticut gives you the chance to create an education that’s not only effective but also full of joy. You can shape each day around what works for your child and your family, without rigid schedules or one-size-fits-all instruction.

When you have the freedom to choose how your child learns, it opens the door to deeper connection and more meaningful learning moments. At Outschool, we support that journey with flexible, engaging classes that bring variety and structure right when you need them.