Hours / Days
175 days per year; comparable to public schools
State Code
ME
Subjects
9 required
Filing Requirements
Notice of Intent to Home Instruction
Within 10 days before or after beginningFile with your local superintendent. Simple notification of your homeschool program.
How to Comply with Maine's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in Maine
Legal Classification
Home Instruction Program (Notification and Assessment)
Compulsory Education Ages
6-17
Available Legal Pathways
Home Instruction (File with School Board)
Most popular option. File a notice of intent with your school superintendent. Required subjects, 175 instructional days, and annual assessment required.
Approved Equivalent Instruction
Provide instruction through approved equivalent means (approved programs, alternative schools, tutors with qualifications). Different requirements than home instruction.
Steps to Get Started
File Notice of Intent with School Superintendent
Maine requires that you file a Notice of Intent to Home Instruct with your school superintendent within 10 days of beginning homeschooling, or by September 1 if starting at the beginning of the school year. This formal notification establishes your homeschool's legal status.
- Contact your school superintendent's office for the Notice form
- Complete the form with your child's information and program details
- Include the subjects you plan to teach and your teaching approach
- Submit to both your local superintendent and the Maine Commissioner of Education
- Keep copies of your filed notice for your records
Early notification prevents any confusion about your child's educational status and avoids truancy issues.
Teach Required Subject Areas
Maine requires instruction in English, language arts, math, science, social studies, physical education, health education, library skills, fine arts, Maine Studies (for students in grades 6-12), and computer proficiency (for students in grades 7-12).
- English and language arts include reading, writing, grammar, and communication
- Math covers grade-appropriate mathematics skills
- Science includes life science, earth science, and physical science
- Social studies includes history, geography, civics, and cultural understanding
- Physical education and health education promote wellness
- Library skills include research, information literacy, and media literacy
- Fine arts includes visual art, music, theater, or other artistic expression
- Maine Studies focuses on Maine history, geography, and culture
- Computer proficiency includes basic computer and technology skills
These required subjects can be integrated through projects and units, or taught separately—you choose.
Provide 175 Instructional Days Minimum
Maine requires at least 175 instructional days per school year. There is no hourly requirement, just a minimum number of days. You can structure your calendar flexibly within this requirement.
- Minimum: 175 instructional days per school year
- No hourly requirement per day
- Days can be distributed throughout the year as you choose
- Weather days, holidays, and vacations can be adjusted within your 175-day requirement
Planning your calendar to hit 175 days gives you flexibility while ensuring compliance.
Arrange Annual Assessment
Maine requires that your child be assessed annually. You can choose from three assessment options: standardized testing, portfolio review by a teacher, or teacher evaluation letter.
- Standardized test: Administer approved test (SAT, ACT, etc.) and submit scores
- Portfolio review: Compile work samples and have reviewed by certified teacher
- Teacher evaluation: Have a certified teacher assess and write evaluation letter
- Submit assessment results by September 1 of the following year
Spring standardized testing is the easiest option for many families; results can be submitted with your annual intent.
Submit Annual Continuation Notice
By September 1 of each year following your initial notification, submit a statement of intention to continue homeschooling along with your child's assessment results from the prior year.
- Submit a brief letter confirming you'll continue homeschooling
- Include the previous year's assessment documentation
- Send to both your local superintendent and the Commissioner of Education
- Keep copies for your records
Setting a September 1 reminder ensures you don't miss the annual renewal deadline.
Design Your Curriculum
With the required subjects defined, you have freedom in how you teach and what curriculum you choose. Select materials and methods that align with your educational philosophy and your child's learning style.
- Choose traditional textbooks, online programs, or hands-on materials
- Integrate subjects through projects and unit studies
- Incorporate field trips, tutoring, and enrichment activities
- Adjust pacing and content based on your child's needs
Keep Detailed Records
Maintain comprehensive records documenting your homeschool program. These records should be kept at home and available if the school district requests them.
- Keep attendance records showing 175 instructional days minimum
- Save work samples and completed assignments
- Document assessment results and teacher evaluations
- Maintain curriculum materials and teaching records
- Organize all materials for easy access if needed
Withdrawing from School
If your child was in public school, file your Notice of Intent and begin homeschooling. No formal public school withdrawal process is required beyond the notice. If you later return to public school, contact the school's enrollment office.
Public School Access
Maine homeschoolers may participate in some public school sports and activities depending on school district policy. Contact your school district's athletic director or central office to inquire about opportunities.
Special Education
Maine allows families with students with special needs to homeschool. If your child has an IEP or qualifies for special education services, coordinate with your school district about available services.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Keep attendance records documenting 175 instructional days per year
- Create a portfolio with work samples from each required subject area
- Save standardized test scores, portfolio evaluations, or teacher assessment letters
- Document curriculum materials used and teaching methods employed
- Maintain a record of field trips, educational activities, and enrichment experiences
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
Annual assessment required by certified teacher, support group with certified teacher, or advisory board (2 homeschool teachers + 1 school official).
Record Keeping
Year-end assessment required; demonstrate intent to continue homeschooling.
Key Facts About Maine
Maine-specific subject requirements including Maine studies
Annual assessment by qualified evaluator is mandatory
175-day minimum
Strong documentation and evaluation requirements
Ages 5-17
“Every family's homeschool journey in Maine is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Notice of Intent include?
The NOI is a simple form filed with your local superintendent within 10 days of starting homeschooling. It notifies the state of your program.
What subjects are required in Maine?
Maine requires 9 subjects including English/language arts, math, science, social studies, PE/health, library skills, fine arts, Maine studies (grades 6-12), and computer proficiency (grades 7-12).
Who can conduct my annual assessment?
You can use a certified teacher, a support group led by a certified teacher, or an advisory board of 2 homeschool teachers and 1 school official.
What happens at the end of the year?
You must complete an end-of-year assessment and demonstrate your intent to continue homeschooling (if continuing).
Looking for requirements in another state?