Frequently Asked Questions about Homeschooling

According to Frederick County Public Schools, the ten most commonly asked questions regarding homeschooling include:

1. Does Maryland law permit a student of mandatory school age (5-16 yrs. old) to be home schooled? Yes, the law provides this as an option to private or public school enrollment. Regulations are found in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 13A.10.01.

2. Before homeschooling, what must a parent do? The parent or guardian should contact FCPS for a copy of the Home Schooling Application and the Maryland regulations at least 15 days before beginning homeschooling.

3. Who provides the curriculum for parents to use for homeschooling their child/ren? The curriculum is the responsibility of the parent or guardian. Instruction must be evident in English, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health and physical education.

4. Is homeschooling supervised in Maryland? Yes, it must be supervised by one of the following: local school system, nonpublic school with a Certificate of Approval from the Maryland State Board of Education, or a school or institution that offers an educational program through a bona fide church organization. [See Where to Begin links on this site for additional information.]

5. Does the parent or guardian have to be a certified teacher? No, parents and guardians are not required to have certification.

6. Can a tutor be hired to take care of all the instruction? Regulations require the parent or guardian to be the primary provider of instruction. However, other adults can supplement in a special area of interest but cannot take the place of the parent or guardian.

7. How much time is spent on homeschool instruction? The homeschooled child should receive regular, thorough instruction during the school year.

8. Who reviews the homeschool program? The entity sponsoring the program will be responsible for the review.

9. For the portfolio review with FCPS, what should I include? COMAR states that homeschoolers maintain a portfolio of materials. Some suggestions: samples of the child's writing, worksheets, workbooks, creative materials, and tests can be used in the portfolio. Please date the work completed.

10. Are homeschoolers allowed to participate in instructional or extracurricular programs offered by my local public school? Homeschooled students are not authorized to participate in any activities with the exception of standardized tests held at the local school.