Homeschooling in Maryland Faces Scrutiny as State Launches Review

Maryland Education Department Conducts Regulatory Review of Homeschooling Program

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has begun a regulatory review of its homeschooling program, prompting discussion among parents, educators, and advocates.

Regulatory reviews are a standard process in which state agencies evaluate existing rules to ensure they remain relevant, effective, and compliant with current laws. Supporters of the process view it as routine maintenance, aimed at updating outdated provisions or clarifying language without significantly altering the substance of the regulations.

However, the review has raised concerns within parts of the homeschooling community. Some fear it could lead to increased oversight or stricter requirements for families who educate their children at home. While no specific changes have been proposed or announced, speculation has grown across social media platforms, with some interpreting the move as a potential prelude to tighter controls.

Background on Maryland Homeschooling Regulations
Homeschooling in Maryland is governed by regulations established in the early 1980s, following growing interest in alternative education models. Current rules require parents to provide regular instruction in key subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education. Families must also maintain a portfolio of student work and participate in periodic reviews by local school systems or state-approved oversight programs.

In general, Maryland has been considered a homeschool-friendly state. While oversight exists, the requirements are relatively clear and flexible, allowing families to design educational programs that suit their children’s needs while meeting state standards.

Past regulatory adjustments have typically been minor—clarifying documentation requirements, updating subject guidelines, or refining oversight procedures. Significant policy shifts have been rare, but each review has drawn attention from advocates who closely monitor potential changes.

The MSDE has not yet released details about the scope, focus, or expected timeline of this latest review. Until further information is provided, many within the homeschooling community are watching the process closely to see whether it remains a routine policy check or signals the start of more substantial changes.

Homeschooling in Maryland: Key Facts

• Legal Framework: Homeschooling has been legal in Maryland since the early 1980s under state education regulations.

• Core Subjects: Instruction must cover English, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education.

• Oversight Options: Families may choose supervision by their local school system or by a state-approved nonpublic entity.

• Portfolio Requirement: Parents must maintain a portfolio of instructional materials and student work to demonstrate progress.

• Review Process: Local or approved supervisors typically review portfolios once or twice per year.

• Flexibility: Parents can select their own curriculum and teaching methods as long as core subjects are addressed.