In the Pine Tree State, your home becomes an ever-changing classroom where lighthouses, lobster docks, and winding forest trails spark curiosity and tailored learning.
Whether you’re studying tidal ecology in Casco Bay or tracing colonial history along the Kennebec River, Maine’s clear homeschooling laws and supportive community networks empower parents to design an education as unique as the landscape itself. You can do this!
Maine parents begin by:
This notification establishes compliance with state requirements for children ages 6 through 17 and triggers the basic recordkeeping expectations defined by law.
Maine law requires families to provide instruction comparable to public schools for at least 175 days per year. The legally required subjects are:
After the first year, every continuing student must complete an academic assessment. The assessment must consist of ONE of the following:
Families in Maine may choose independent homeschooling, enroll under umbrella programs offered by private schools, or participate in cooperative groups that share classes and resources. Independent homeschoolers enjoy the freedom to select mastery-based, multisensory curricula such as
Umbrella and cooperative programs provide additional structure through shared lesson plans, group instruction, and extracurricular activities.
Maine homeschoolers can access no-cost resources through public library digital collections, open educational platforms like Khan Academy, and cooperative materials exchanges among state homeschool groups.
The All About Learning Press Free Resources page offers downloadable activities and teaching tips at no cost, providing help for reading, spelling, and math.
Is Maine homeschool-friendly? Maine balances freedom with accountability, but the process is fairly straightforward: submit an annual notification, meet the subject and days requirements, and submit an annual academic assessment. With a little work, you can have a great homeschool journey!
Local support groups, from Portland to Bangor, offer field trips, co-op classes, and social events that connect families and enrich the learning experience.
As you embark on your Maine homeschooling adventure, remember to file your notice, teach at least 175 days, complete the required annual assessment, and draw inspiration from the state’s natural beauty and supportive communities.
Celebrate each “aha” moment, trust in your creative approach, and let the rugged coastline and forest trails fuel your learner’s curiosity. You’re ready to begin!
If you’re new to homeschooling or want tips from veteran homeschoolers, check out these free resources:
Disclaimer:
All information is current as of August 2025. This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) for official guidance.