Homeschooling in Maryland.

What this route is

You keep a portfolio of your child's work, and your local school system reviews it. This is the main parent-led route.

Required subjects

English, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education. (COMAR 13A.10.01.01)

Your portfolio

Show regular, thorough teaching in each subject with items such as reading materials, writing samples, worksheets, workbooks, creative work, and tests. For college courses, a report card or transcript can take the place of a portfolio.

Reviews

A school system representative reviews the portfolio and talks with you about your program at the end of each semester, at a time and place you both agree on. There can be no more than three reviews in a school year.

If something is missing

The superintendent must tell you in writing. You then have 30 days to show the problem is fixed or being fixed. Otherwise your child must enroll in a public or nonpublic school. (COMAR 13A.10.01.03)

Local rules

Your school system may not add requirements beyond the state regulations.

What this route is

A church-operated school or program, or a nonpublic school approved by the State Board of Education, supervises your home program. It must be registered with MSDE; check the state's list of registered supervisors.

What the supervisor provides

A church program offers an enrollment conference, materials for home use, and regular parent conferences. An approved nonpublic school offers materials and a teacher who helps you, marks papers, grades tests, and sends progress reports. (COMAR 13A.10.01.05)

Required subjects

Regular, thorough instruction in the subjects usually taught in public schools to children of the same age. Your supervisor sets the details; the school system does not review a portfolio.

Filings

You still send the MSDE form to your superintendent at least 15 days before you begin. Each year, your supervisor confirms with the superintendent which students it oversees and reports any changes.