Connecticut homeschooling invites families to transform the Constitution State’s charming coastal towns, dense woodlands, and colonial landmarks into a living curriculum that resonates with your child’s interests.
Whether you’re delving into Mystic Seaport’s nautical legacy or studying forest ecosystems in the Litchfield Hills, clear state regulations and active support networks back your every decision. Guide your learner with assurance and let your family’s curiosity chart the course. Embrace this path and flourish together!
Connecticut does not have a state statutory requirement for notifying the local school district of your intent to homeschool. Many school districts in Connecticut have local policies that create an optional Notice of Intent that parents can complete to notify the district of their intent to homeschool. This form is optional. Some parents begin by submitting a written Notice of Intent to their local school district within 10 days of the start of the home instruction program (or promptly after withdrawing a student mid-year).
It is important to understand the legal distinction: Connecticut operates under an “exemption” statute (C.G.S. § 10-184). Parents are exempt from sending children to public school if they can show the child is receiving “equivalent instruction” elsewhere. While filing the Notice of Intent is part of the state’s “Suggested Procedures” (Circular Letter C-14) rather than a strict requirement, following these guidelines creates a legal presumption of compliance.
Connecticut law requires instruction in specific subject areas. To maintain “equivalent instruction,” families typically aim for a schedule comparable to the public school standard of 180 days, though the statute does not explicitly mandate this for homeschoolers.
While subjects like Science, Physical Education and Wellness, Health and Safety, Foreign Languages, and Arts are not statutorily required, many families choose to include these subjects in their homeschools for a well-rounded education.
Record Keeping and Portfolios are not required by law, however, it is suggested that parents maintain an attendance register and a portfolio of student work and curricula used. These may be presented at an optional annual portfolio review meeting with the superintendent or their designee.
Connecticut offers a range of homeschool programs, from fully independent curricula to umbrella school affiliations and cooperative learning groups.
Independent homeschoolers have complete freedom to select the curricula of their choice. We recommend looking for mastery-based, multisensory programs that engage different parts of the brain. You can build a robust foundation using tools like All About Reading, All About Spelling, and All About Math.
Umbrella programs provided by accredited private schools and co-ops supply structured lesson plans, qualified instructor support, and group classes that foster community and accountability.
Local homeschool groups and co-ops in Connecticut organize field trips, workshops, and social events that enrich the learning experience.
Statewide gatherings and online forums connect families with curriculum vendors, veteran homeschoolers, and educational resources to support every stage of the homeschool journey.
Families can access no-cost resources through public libraries, the Connecticut Digital Library, and open educational platforms.
The All About Learning Press Free Resources & Teaching Tools page provides learning activities and educational information to support families.
You’re ready to embark! Trust your creativity, celebrate each milestone, and lean on Connecticut’s rich resources and community supports.
Yes—Connecticut recognizes home instruction as a legal exemption to compulsory attendance laws. You can choose to follow the “Suggested Procedures” (C-14) which include filing a Notice of Intent.
A Notice of Intent is not required. If you choose to file a Notice of Intent, the guidelines suggest filing within 10 days of the start of your home instruction program. This allows you to withdraw a child and begin homeschooling immediately without a waiting period.
Reading, writing, spelling and grammar, geography, arithmetic, U.S. history, and citizenship. While subjects like Science, Physical Education and Wellness, Health and Safety, Foreign Languages, and Arts are not statutorily required, many families choose to include these subjects in their homeschools for a well-rounded education.
It is suggested you maintain an attendance register and a portfolio of work samples and curricula.
No, annual testing is not required.
Options include independent curricula, umbrella affiliations and co-op classes.
All About Learning Press cannot offer legal advice. Verify regulations through the Connecticut State Department of Education or HSLDA. All information is correct as of the date of publication.