Homeschooling in Maine: Navigating flexible learning at home

In Maine, homeschooling isn't just an educational choice; it’s an opportunity to create a more personalized way of learning that works for your child and your family’s rhythm. Whether you’re just getting started or switching paths mid-year, Maine's guidelines are clear and manageable, giving parents confidence to take the lead.

This guide covers key details about legal options, instructional requirements, annual assessments, and how to find community support. Along the way, you’ll also discover how Outschool can help with flexible, engaging learning experiences that pair well with your homeschooling approach.

Homeschooling options in Maine

Families in Maine have two pathways for homeschooling. The primary route is the home instruction option, which is what most people think of when they hear “homeschooling.” The second is through enrollment in a private school recognized by the state as offering equivalent instruction. While both options meet compulsory attendance laws, they follow different sets of guidelines.

Homeschooling under Maine's home instruction option

This is the primary homeschooling route in Maine and the one most families use. It’s defined in state law and includes steps like filing a Notice of Intent, covering certain subjects, and submitting an annual assessment. Since this option falls under the compulsory attendance law, truancy rules do apply if the required steps aren’t followed.

Homeschooling under Equivalent Instruction Private Schools

The second path involves enrolling your child in what's known as an Equivalent Instruction Private School. These are private schools recognized by the state to provide instruction outside the traditional classroom, often from home. While it may resemble homeschooling day to day, students enrolled in Equivalent Instruction Private Schools are not classified as homeschoolers under Maine law. Some families choose this route for the added structure or support offered by the school.

Requirements for homeschooling in Maine

Getting started with homeschooling in Maine means you’ll also need to stay on top of a few key requirements. These can vary depending on which homeschooling path you choose.

Enrollment paperwork

For families using the home instruction option, Maine requires a few key documents to be submitted on time:

• Initial Notice of Intent: Due within 10 days of starting home instruction. Send to both your local superintendent and the Commissioner of Education.
• Annual Letter (for continuing students): Due by September 1 each year. Must include:
  • A statement of intent to continue home instruction
  • A copy of the prior year’s assessment
• What to include in your notice:
  • Parent/guardian name, address, and signature
  • Student’s name and age
  • Start date of instruction
  • Statement confirming:
    • 175 instructional days
    • Required subjects will be taught
    • An annual assessment will be completed

Families enrolled in an Equivalent Instruction Private School do not submit a Notice of Intent. Enrollment paperwork is handled directly through the school.

Attendance and instruction

Families using the home instruction option must provide at least 175 instructional days each year, though Maine doesn’t require a set number of hours per day. If you begin partway through the school year, any days previously spent in school can count toward the total. Parents are not required to hold a teaching license. 

For those enrolled in an Equivalent Instruction Private School, attendance policies and teaching schedules are managed by the school itself.

Curriculum guidelines

Maine requires that all home instruction programs cover specific subjects each year. These include: English/language arts, math, science, social studies, physical education, health education, library skills, fine arts, Maine studies (in at least one grade from 6 to 12), and computer proficiency (in at least one grade from 7 to 12).

Recordkeeping essentials

Parents must keep the following on file for each homeschooled child:

• A copy of the original Notice of Intent to Provide Home Instruction
• A copy of each year’s annual assessment (beginning in year 2)
• A copy of the annual continuation letter stating the intent to continue homeschooling

These records must be available upon request by the Commissioner of Education and should be retained until the home instruction program concludes.

Testing and assessments

Maine homeschool testing requirements give you three flexible options to demonstrate student progress. You can choose the assessment method that best fits your family's approach and your child's learning style.

For home instruction families:

• Submit annual assessments by September 1, along with your letter of intent to continue homeschooling for the following year.
• Choose from three assessment options. Have a Maine-certified teacher review student progress, submit standardized test results, or use tests developed by local school officials.
• Maintain a portfolio with work samples and records from all required subjects to support your chosen assessment method.

For learners enrolled in an Equivalent Instruction Private School:

• Follow your school's assessment policies. Each recognized private school sets its own testing schedule and methods
• Check with your school administrator about specific requirements, deadlines, and acceptable assessment formats for enrollment.

The annual assessment requirement applies to children between the ages of 6 and 17, giving you clear guidelines for when testing becomes necessary.

Homeschool with Outschool

Outschool can be a helpful part of your homeschooling journey by offering flexible, engaging options that fit Maine’s learning requirements. Whether you’re looking to cover core academic subjects, explore enrichment areas, or find creative ways to keep your child motivated, there’s something for every learner.

Here’s how Outschool supports homeschool families in Maine:

• Live and self-paced academic classes for all age levels
• Focused instruction in math, reading, science, and other core subjects
• Electives in STEM, art, music, and communication
• Small-group social learning opportunities designed for homeschoolers
• Support for interest-led, project-based, or personalized learning style

How to get started

Once you’ve decided to homeschool in Maine, getting started is a matter of following a few clear steps based on the option you’ve chosen. Below are the key actions for both the home instruction path and enrollment in an Equivalent Instruction Private School.

If you're using the home instruction option

Starting home instruction homeschooling in Maine becomes manageable when you break it down into clear steps. The state provides a straightforward framework that gives you flexibility while meeting legal guidelines.

• Submit a Notice of Intent to both the local superintendent and the Commissioner of Education within 10 days of starting or by September 1 each year.
• Include your and your child’s names, address, start date, and a statement covering required subjects, 175 instructional days, and annual assessments.
• Select or prepare a curriculum that covers all of Maine’s required subject areas.
• Keep copies of your Notice of Intent, annual assessments, and continuation letters for your records.
• Submit a letter each year by September 1 that includes your assessment results and a statement of intent to continue homeschooling.

If you're homeschooling through an Equivalent Instruction Private School

• Choose a state-recognized Equivalent Instruction Private School that supports home-based education.
• Complete the enrollment process and submit any required documentation to the school.
• Follow the school’s academic and recordkeeping guidelines, including instruction in required subjects.
• Check with the school about how they handle attendance, curriculum, and assessments.

Find support through homeschool communities in Maine

Connecting with other homeschooling families can make a big difference, whether you're looking for curriculum ideas, local events, or a sense of community. Maine has several statewide organizations and local groups that offer support, resources, and ways to meet other families.

Statewide organizations

• Homeschoolers of Maine – Offers resources, events, and general guidance for homeschooling families across the state.
• Maine Homeschool Network – An inclusive online community for sharing information, resources, and homeschool experiences.
• Maine Home Education Alliance – A nonprofit group that supports and advocates for all homeschoolers in Maine, offering help, connection, and encouragement.

Local groups and co-ops

• Southern Maine Homeschoolers – A community-focused group for families in York, Cumberland, and southern Oxford counties to connect and plan local events.
• Mid-Maine Homeschoolers – Based in the Waterville area, this group shares curriculum tips, hosts events, and welcomes all homeschooling styles.
• Wild Ones Collective – A nature-based homeschooling group that meets year-round for outdoor exploration and creative learning activities.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about homeschooling in Maine

It’s normal to have questions when you're getting started with homeschooling. Here are some quick answers to common concerns Maine parents often ask about.

Do I need to be a certified teacher to homeschool my child in Maine?

No teaching certificate is required to homeschool under Maine's home instruction option. The state's laws trust parents to provide appropriate education without requiring formal teaching credentials. If you choose the private school pathway, teacher qualifications depend on that specific school's policies.

How much does homeschooling cost in Maine?

Homeschooling in Maine is funded exclusively by parents, meaning no public funding is provided for curriculum or materials. You'll cover all costs for books, supplies, online classes, and any testing fees. Many families find ways to reduce expenses through library resources, free online materials, curriculum swaps with other homeschooling families, and choosing affordable options like Outschool classes.

Can my homeschooled student join public school sports or extracurricular activities?

Yes, Maine's Public School Access Law allows homeschooled students to participate in public school extracurricular activities, including sports teams. Contact your local school district's athletic director or activities coordinator to learn about their enrollment process and any academic expectations. Some districts may require proof of academic progress or residency within their boundaries.

What annual assessments are accepted for Maine homeschoolers?

Maine accepts three types of annual assessments for home instruction families: standardized test results, a written evaluation from a certified teacher, or a portfolio review by a qualified evaluator. You submit this assessment along with your annual letter of intent to continue by September 1 each year. This documentation demonstrates your learner's educational progress and meets state compliance guidelines.

What if my child wants to return to public school after homeschooling?

Your student can return to public school at any time, though the school district will determine appropriate grade placement based on their academic progress and age. Keep detailed records of completed coursework, assessments, and educational activities to help with this transition. Contact your local school district early in the process to understand their specific expectations for re-enrollment.

Are there specific curriculum guidelines for special needs or neurodiverse learners?

Maine's homeschool laws don't specify different curriculum expectations for children with special needs, giving you flexibility to adapt your approach to your learner's unique needs and learning style. Consider connecting with other homeschooling families who have experience with neurodiverse learners for practical strategies and encouragement.

Homeschool with confidence in Maine

Homeschooling in Maine gives you the chance to shape an education that fits your child's personality, interests, and pace. With the right tools and support, this journey can feel less overwhelming and a lot more rewarding.

Outschool is here to help along the way, offering flexible classes and creative learning options that work well with Maine’s homeschooling approach. You can explore core subjects, dive into electives, and give your child opportunities to connect with other learners, all in one place.