Delaware Laws and Requirements for Homeschool

Delaware Homeschooling Laws and Requirements

Homeschooling in Delaware is legal and governed under specific statutes that offer parents flexibility while ensuring adherence to educational standards. Parents must register their homeschool and fulfill ongoing requirements to comply with the state’s homeschooling laws.

Homeschool Options in Delaware

Delaware provides three options for homeschooling:

  1. Single-Family Homeschool

    • A single family conducts homeschooling for their children.
    • The parent or guardian serves as the teacher.

  2. Multi-Family Homeschool

    • Two or more families collaborate to homeschool their children.

  3. Single-Family Homeschool Coordinated with the Local School District

    • A single family homeschools their children under the oversight of their local public school district.

Key Requirements for Homeschooling in Delaware

  1. Registration with the Delaware Department of Education

    • Parents must register their homeschool through the Delaware Nonpublic School System (DNSS).
    • Registration must include basic information about the homeschool and the students.

  2. Annual Enrollment and Attendance

    • Parents must submit:
      • An annual enrollment form at the start of each school year.
      • An attendance report at the end of the school year, confirming at least 180 days of instruction.

  3. Subjects and Curriculum

    • Delaware does not mandate specific subjects or curricula for homeschoolers.
    • Parents have complete freedom to choose instructional materials and design the curriculum.

  4. Testing and Assessments

    • Delaware does not require standardized testing for homeschoolers.
    • Parents may administer assessments voluntarily to track their child’s progress.

  5. Record-Keeping

    • Delaware does not have formal record-keeping requirements.
    • It is advisable to maintain attendance records, curriculum outlines, and examples of student work for personal documentation and future reference.

Graduation and Diplomas

  • Delaware does not issue diplomas to homeschool students.
  • Parents may issue their own diploma upon successful completion of their homeschool program.
  • Students may take the GED as an alternative credential.

Reentering Public School

  • Students wishing to transfer to a public school may need to undergo placement testing.
  • Detailed records of the student’s homeschool education can aid in grade-level placement and credit transfers.

Support and Resources

  1. Delaware Department of Education: Official guidelines and registration portal for homeschoolers.
  2. Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA): Legal support and resources for homeschool families.
  3. Delaware Home School Organizations: Local networks providing community support, curriculum advice, and social opportunities.

Key Points

  • Register with the Delaware Department of Education before starting.
  • Provide 180 days of instruction annually and submit an attendance report.
  • Delaware allows full curriculum flexibility and does not mandate testing.
  • Homeschoolers may issue their own diplomas or pursue a GED if desired.


Delaware Department of Education