Homeschooling in Massachusetts comes with a lot of moving parts. From paperwork to progress reports, there’s a bit more structure here than in many other states, and that can feel like a lot when you’re just getting started. The good news is, once you understand what’s expected, it becomes much easier to find your rhythm.
At Outschool, we’re here to make that path feel less overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for flexible learning options or support in understanding the requirements, we’re ready to help you build a homeschool routine that works for your family.
Homeschooling options in Massachusetts
Massachusetts welcomes homeschooling families, but it also expects them to follow a more structured process than many other states. Instead of having multiple options, families follow one clear path, which mainly involves submitting an education plan to their local school district for approval. This plan gives a general idea of what and how you'll be teaching, and it needs to be approved before you officially begin homeschooling.
What’s unique about Massachusetts is that there’s no specific homeschooling law written into the books. Instead, the guidelines come from key court cases, especially one from 1987 called Care and Protection of Charles. That ruling is what shaped the system the state has now, balancing a parent’s right to homeschool with the district’s role in reviewing plans.
Requirements for homeschooling in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has a few key requirements that guide how you can teach, track progress, and communicate with your local school districts. Understanding these requirements early on can prevent confusion and help you feel more prepared as you begin.
Paperwork
Massachusetts requires you to submit an education plan to your local district for approval. This plan should include a general outline of what subjects you’ll cover, how your child will be instructed, and how progress will be evaluated. While it may feel formal, it’s really just the state’s way of making sure your child’s education is thoughtfully planned.
Attendance
You don’t need to stick to a traditional school schedule, but the state expects your homeschool plan to be as thorough and effective as your local public schools. Many families choose to meet or exceed the public school benchmark of 180 days and 900 (elementary) or 990 (secondary) instructional hours each year, but how you get there is totally flexible. Field trips, hands-on projects, and everyday learning all count.
Instruction
Massachusetts doesn’t require parents to have a teaching license to homeschool. The law simply expects that the parent providing instruction is of “competent ability and good morals,” and that’s usually enough. A short statement in your education plan, or a brief summary of your background if you prefer, will meet this requirement.
Curriculum guidelines
Your education plan will need to list the subjects your child will be learning, but how you choose to teach them is completely up to you. Massachusetts provides a list of required subjects in its laws, but you have the freedom to pick the materials, methods, and pace that fit your child best.
Core subjects required under Massachusetts law (G.L. c. 69, § 1D)
- Mathematics
- Science and technology
- History and social science
- English
- Foreign languages
- The arts
Additional subjects listed (G.L. c. 71, §1 and § 3)
- Orthography
- Reading
- Writing
- Geography
- Drawing
- Music
- U.S. history and the Constitution
- Duties of citizenship
- Health education
- Physical education
- Good behavior
Recordkeeping
While Massachusetts doesn’t have a statewide rule for homeschool recordkeeping, your local district might have its own expectations. It’s a good idea to hang on to key documents, like your education plan, a list of materials, and a few work samples. Staying organized not only keeps things simple if your district asks for anything, but it also makes writing progress reports a whole lot easier later on.
Testing and assessments
You’ll need to agree with your district on one way to show your child’s progress, but you get to choose the format and have it mentioned in your education plan. You can opt for a written summary, dated work samples, or standardized test results, depending on your child’s learning style and your own preferences.
Homeschool with Outschool
Outschool is a great way to bring variety and connection into your homeschool routine while meeting Massachusetts subject expectations. You can use it to support your core curriculum or explore new topics that spark your child’s curiosity. With flexible scheduling and tons of course options, it’s easy to find classes that fit your goals and learning style.
Here’s a glimpse of what you can find on Outschool:
Whatever your homeschool setup looks like, Outschool has tools and ideas to help you keep things fresh and engaging.
How to get started
Getting started with homeschooling in Massachusetts takes a little planning up front, but once you’ve got your education plan in place, you’re well on your way. Here’s a quick overview of the steps to take:
- Submit your education plan in the calendar year your child turns six. This is the minimum age for compulsory school attendance in the state.
- Include the required information, such as subjects, materials, your qualifications, and how you’ll measure progress.
- Mail your plan via certified mail or hand-deliver it and ask for a signed receipt.
- Wait for written approval from your district before officially withdrawing from public school (if applicable).
- Once approved, begin homeschooling and follow the plan you submitted.
- Keep records like work samples, a list of resources, and notes on progress.
- Submit your chosen method of evaluation (if requested) by the end of the school year.
Starting strong makes the rest of the year feel smoother. Once your plan is in place, you can focus on creating a learning experience that fits your child.
Find support through homeschool communities in Massachusetts
It’s always helpful to connect with others who understand the homeschool experience. If you’re looking for encouragement, activity ideas, or just a place to ask questions, Massachusetts has many groups that offer guidance and connection. Here are a few places to start:
Statewide organizations
- Advocates for Home Education in Massachusetts, Inc. (AHEM): AHEM is a volunteer-run nonprofit that shares information about homeschooling laws, hosts events, and encourages families to stay informed and independent. It’s a trusted name among many homeschooling families in the state.
- Massachusetts Home Learning Association (MHLA): MHLA has been around for decades and focuses on protecting the right to homeschool. This group shares updates on policy and offers support for families navigating the approval process or dealing with questions from school officials.
- Outstanding Homeschool Adventures (OHA): OHA organizes all kinds of fun outings and events for homeschool families in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and nearby regions. Think field trips, meetups, and enrichment activities that let kids learn by doing.
Local groups and co-ops
- Attleboro Area Homeschoolers: For those in southeastern Massachusetts and northern Rhode Island, this group offers a welcoming space to connect with other homeschoolers, especially if you're just getting started and want advice from those nearby.
- Berkshire Homeschoolers: Families in the Berkshires can connect through this active group, which regularly offers opportunities for kids of all ages to learn, play, and build friendships together.
- Small Town Homeschool Group: Focused on families in towns like Palmer, Monson, and Ludlow, this tight-knit group helps members exchange ideas, plan meetups, and share educational resources in a safe, familiar setting.
- Western MA Home-Educating (WMHE): This group is for families currently homeschooling in Western Massachusetts. Members organize social meetups, outings, and field trips, and it’s a casual space to swap ideas and ask questions.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Homeschooling in Massachusetts can come with a lot of “what ifs,” especially when you’re just getting started. Here are some common questions parents ask and what you need to know to feel more confident moving forward.
Is homeschooling allowed in every school district in Massachusetts?
Yes! Every district in the state allows homeschooling. The process may look slightly different depending on your town, but your right to homeschool is protected throughout Massachusetts.
Can I start homeschooling in Massachusetts in the middle of the school year?
You can, as long as you submit your education plan and wait for approval before officially withdrawing your child from school. Once you have that approval, you’re good to go.
What if I don’t hear back from my district after submitting my education plan?
Follow up with your district and confirm they received your submission, ideally in writing. Keep a record of every communication and step taken; it’s important to document everything to show you’ve met your obligations.
Will my child need to take the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) or other state exams?
No, MCAS testing is for public school students. As a homeschooler, you’ll work with your district to choose a single form of evaluation, like a progress report or dated work samples.
Can I include things like field trips in our learning hours?
Absolutely. Learning in a homeschool setting can include field trips, hands-on projects, outdoor exploration, and more. All of that counts toward your instructional time.
Do I have to reapply every year to continue homeschooling in Massachusetts?
Most local school districts expect an updated plan every year, even though Massachusetts law doesn’t strictly require it. Staying consistent helps you stay on good terms with your district.
Can the school district ask to visit my home to approve my education plan?
No, home visits are not allowed as a condition for approving your homeschool plan. Your written documentation is all that’s required.
What if my child wants to go back to public school later on?
Re-enrolling is possible at any time, though the school might assess placement based on age, work samples, or testing. Keeping good records makes this process easier if your child returns to a traditional classroom.
Confident homeschooling starts with preparation
Massachusetts homeschooling does come with a few extra steps, but knowing the rules and staying prepared makes a world of difference. From getting your education plan approved to tracking your child’s progress, most of it comes down to being thoughtful and clear with your local district.
At Outschool, we understand that every homeschool looks a little different, and that’s part of the beauty of it. Our platform offers everything from core subjects to creative electives, all designed to support the way your child learns best. Homeschooling gives you the space to grow and adapt, and we’re here to help you make the most of it.
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