Hours / Days
180 days per year; 900-990 hours annually
State Code
MA
Subjects
1 required
Filing Requirements
Notice of Intent + Curriculum Approval
Annually at start of school yearFile with your local school district superintendent. Submit curriculum for approval.
How to Comply with Massachusetts's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in Massachusetts
Legal Classification
Home Schooling Program (Superintendent Approval Required)
Compulsory Education Ages
6-16
Steps to Get Started
Obtain Prior Approval from Superintendent
Massachusetts law requires that you obtain prior approval from your local superintendent of schools or school committee before commencing your homeschooling program. This is not a rubber-stamp approval—you must demonstrate your program's educational quality.
- Contact your local superintendent's office to request the homeschooling approval process
- Confirm their specific requirements and timelines
- Schedule a meeting with the superintendent if required
- Be prepared to discuss your program philosophy and approach
Starting this process early ensures you have time to work through any questions or modifications requested.
Submit Your Notice of Intent with Program Details
Submit a formal notice of intent to the superintendent that includes your curriculum, proposed instruction hours, materials and resources you'll use, and your qualifications for teaching.
- Write a comprehensive notice of intent letter
- Include a list of materials, textbooks, and curriculum you plan to use
- Provide a summary of curriculum and subjects to be taught
- Describe your qualifications (education, experience, competency)
- Explain your teaching methodology and philosophy
- Specify the proposed hours of instruction and school schedule
- Submit to the superintendent or school committee as directed
A well-written, detailed notice of intent demonstrates that you've thoughtfully planned your homeschool program.
Address Superintendent's Evaluation Criteria
The superintendent will evaluate your program based on curriculum breadth and depth, hours of instruction, parent competency, instructional materials, and assessment methods. Be prepared to address these areas thoroughly.
- Demonstrate that curriculum is comprehensive and age-appropriate
- Show that instructional time is sufficient for educational progress
- Evidence of parent competency (education, training, or demonstrated expertise)
- Quality of instructional materials and resources
- Clear plan for assessing student progress and achievement
Creating a curriculum document that shows how you'll cover all required subjects strengthens your approval chances.
Agree on Assessment Methods
The superintendent may require periodic assessments or evaluation of your child's progress. Work with the superintendent to establish mutually agreed-upon assessment methods, such as standardized testing, portfolio assessment, or progress reports.
- Propose assessment method(s) you're comfortable with
- Standardized testing (SAT, IOWA, or similar)
- Portfolio assessment with work samples
- Progress reports from parent or evaluator
- Reach agreement on frequency (annually, every 2-3 years)
- Document the agreed-upon assessment plan
Clear agreement on assessment methods from the start prevents disputes later.
Teach Required Subjects
Massachusetts requires instruction in core subjects including English language arts, mathematics, science and technology, history and social science, physical education, and the arts. You have freedom in curriculum choice.
- English includes reading, writing, speaking, and listening
- Mathematics covers grade-appropriate math skills
- Science and technology includes physical, earth, and life science
- History and social science includes civics, history, and geography
- Physical education promotes fitness and wellness
- Arts includes visual arts, music, or performing arts
Maintain Instruction Records and Progress Documentation
Keep comprehensive records showing the instruction provided and your child's progress across all subject areas. These records support your ongoing relationship with the superintendent.
- Maintain a curriculum log or learning record
- Keep work samples from each subject area
- Document assessment results (standardized tests, portfolios, progress reports)
- Keep attendance records and instructional time logs
- Maintain records for easy reference if superintendent requests review
Renew Approval Annually or as Required
Depending on your superintendent's policies, you may need to provide annual updates or renewal documentation. Stay in communication with your superintendent about ongoing compliance.
- Check with superintendent about renewal timeline
- Provide annual progress updates or assessment results as required
- Update curriculum documentation if plans change
- Maintain regular communication with superintendent
Good communication and transparent record-keeping make renewals straightforward.
Withdrawing from School
If your child was in public school, obtain superintendent approval and begin homeschooling. No formal public school withdrawal is required beyond the approval process. If you later return to public school, contact the school's enrollment office.
Public School Access
Massachusetts policies on homeschoolers participating in public school activities vary by district. Contact your superintendent's office to inquire about sports, clubs, and enrichment opportunities.
Special Education
Massachusetts 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
- Maintain a detailed curriculum guide showing how you'll cover required subjects
- Keep a learning log or instruction record documenting daily or weekly activities
- Create a portfolio with representative work samples from each subject area
- Save assessment results (standardized tests, progress reports, evaluations)
- Document educational resources, field trips, and enrichment activities
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
Required. Standardized testing or mutually agreed evaluation with periodic progress reports and work samples.
Record Keeping
Required. Maintain detailed records of curriculum and progress.
Key Facts About Massachusetts
One of 5 strictest states (with NY, VT, RI, PA)
Annual filing and curriculum approval required
District-level variation in enforcement
Approval is not automatic
180-day, 900-990 hour requirement
“Every family's homeschool journey in Massachusetts is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does curriculum approval mean in Massachusetts?
Your curriculum plan must be submitted to and approved by your local school district superintendent. Approval is not automatic and varies by district.
How strict is Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is one of the five strictest states. Requirements include annual filing, curriculum approval, testing, and significant documentation.
What if my district denies my curriculum?
You would need to revise your curriculum plan and resubmit for approval. Districts vary in their approval criteria and flexibility.
Are there testing alternatives?
Yes. You can use standardized testing or develop a mutually agreed-upon evaluation plan with your district including progress reports and work samples.
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