Guide to Homeschooling in Maine

Resources

Maine Homeschool Laws and Requirements

Because state governments establish homeschool laws, the homeschooling requirements will differ a bit based on where you live. In Maine, there are quite a few things parents will need to keep in mind. You should research these homeschool requirements before transitioning to homeschool to ensure you can abide by the laws and guidelines in your state.

Homeschool parents in Maine will need to file a notice of intent to homeschool, followed by an annual letter after that explains they will continue homeschool for the next school year. Parents will also need to select a curriculum that covers certain subjects, such as English and language arts, math, science, and social studies, as well as areas like physical and health education and computer skills. Homeschoolers are required to provide instruction for at least 175 days per year. For more detailed information about legally homeschooling your student in Maine, the Maine Department of Education is a great resource that thoroughly explain everything you need to know.

RECORD KEEPING

In Maine, homeschool parents must submit a year-end assessment. Several types of assessments fulfill this requirement. The first option is to submit the student’s test results from a national standardized assessment. Homeschoolers may also take local tests; however, this method is much less common. Lastly, parents can submit a letter from a certified teacher or advisory board that reviews the student’s progress for the year.

In addition to filing an annual assessment, there are other things that parents should consider keeping on file, including attendance records, transcripts, progress reports, course materials, and samples of coursework. Power Homeschool makes the record keeping process easy by automatically generating these reports. Parents can then download and print these documents for their files.

HOMESCHOOL STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENTS IN MAINE

Participating in a standardized assessment is one of the most common choices among Maine homeschoolers for fulfilling the year-end assessment requirements. There are various state standardized tests in Maine, like the eMPowerMe test for third through eighth grade students. High school students should consider taking the SAT, which will be necessary to apply for colleges if students choose to do so.

HOMESCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS IN MAINE

Maine does not issue any specific graduation requirements for homeschoolers. Instead, parents are responsible for establishing these requirements as well as issuing high school diplomas to their students. We recommend that the parent establishes requirements based on what the student wants to do after graduation. Beginning this conversation early will ensure the student is meeting these throughout their high school education. Many colleges, universities, and trade schools will share their admissions requirements for homeschool students online, but others you may need to contact directly.

Resources

Homeschool Associations & Support Groups in Maine

Although it is possible to homeschool without any outside help, there are plenty of groups and networks that can make the process easier for both parents and students. Homeschool associations, support groups, and cooperatives all exist to enhance the homeschooling process.

Maine has a statewide homeschool association called Homeschoolers of Maine (HOME). This association shares resources, provides legal advice, and hosts events for homeschoolers in Maine.

In addition to its statewide association, Maine is full of homeschool support groups and co-ops. Homeschool support groups often meet in person; however, some communicate online and share advice and tips in a forum. Either way, these groups allow both parents and students to meet other homeschoolers in their area.

Homeschool co-ops are similar to support groups, but they are more academic-focused groups. These groups are volunteer-based, and parents usually take turns providing instruction to the groups. Students learn in group settings and develop valuable skills like teamwork and communication. Some support groups and co-ops are faith-based, while others are secular. You can also find groups that focus on certain subjects or activities. Most of these groups have Facebook pages or websites so you can easily find a group that fits your family’s needs with a simple search query. The following are just a few examples of the many different types of homeschool groups in Maine: 

• • • Maine Christian Homeschool
    • Secular Homeschooling and Unschooling Families of Maine
    • Maine Homeschooling Swap
    • EarthSchool of Southern Maine
    • SEEK Homeschool Co-op

Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!

• Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Penobscot: Students can explore a wild landscape and learn about the flora, fauna, geology, and landforms of the area. While there, tour the Lumberman’s Museum to learn about Maine logging history.
• The Maine Solar System Model in Aroostook County: Exploring the large 40-mile scale model of our solar system will surely excite any student. This field trip will be a great addition to any unit about space and exploration.
• Museum L-A in Lewiston: Bates Manufacturing Company was once the largest textile manufacturer in New England. Today, the museum is home to machinery and artifacts, teaching visitors about the Industrial Revolution and behind the scenes operations.
• Emera Astronomy Center and Jordan Planetarium in Orono: Located on the University of Maine’s campus, this center is the perfect field trip to compliment astronomy and science units. The Planetarium offers programs and special events for visitors of all ages.
• Maine Discovery Museum in Bangor: This museum allows young learners to play and experiment with hands-on activities, engaging exhibits, and seasonal camps. Students can explore science, nature, geography, art, and so much more!
• Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor: Discover the natural beauty of the region, learn about plant and animal species, and see this wildlife first-hand. This natural park lines the Atlantic coast and offers miles of hiking trails, which are perfect for nature walks and exploration.
• Bowdoin College Museum of Art in Brunswick: As one of the earliest collegiate art collections in the nation, this museum houses thousands of pieces, including paintings, sculptures, pottery, and more.
• Maine Maritime Museum in Bath: Dedicated to the maritime heritage and culture of Maine, the museum has various exhibits and collections of documents, manuscripts, and artifacts that tell the story of maritime culture.
• Children’s Discovery Museum in Augusta: With plenty of hands-on exhibits, young learners will have plenty of ways to engage in educational play. This museum offers weekly programming and summer camps, as well.
• Maine State Capitol in Augusta: Touring the Maine State Capitol will be the perfect way to learn about Maine’s history, culture, and government. Visitors are welcome nearly every day, and guided tours are available for groups.