Rhode Island Laws and Requirements for Homeschool

Homeschooling in Rhode Island is legally recognized and regulated to ensure that children receive a quality education outside of the traditional public or private school systems.

Compulsory Attendance Age:

  • Children between the ages of 6 and 18 are required to attend school. Homeschooling is an accepted alternative to public or private schooling within this age range.

Approval Process:

  1. Notification and Approval:

    • Before beginning a homeschooling program, parents or guardians must present their proposed home instruction plan to the local school committee for approval.
    • The plan should demonstrate that the instruction will be "thorough and efficient" and cover the required subjects.

  2. Enrollment Requirement:

    • If moving into a new school district with the intention of homeschooling, parents must first register and enroll their child in the new district. Following enrollment, they should seek approval from the local school committee for the homeschooling program.

Instructional Requirements:

  • Duration:

    • Instruction should be provided for a period substantially equal to that of public schools, typically interpreted as 180 days per year.

  • Required Subjects:

    • Instruction must be in English and cover the following subjects:
      • Reading
      • Writing
      • Geography
      • Arithmetic
      • History of the United States
      • History of Rhode Island
      • Principles of American government

Recordkeeping:

  • Attendance Records:
    • Parents are required to maintain an attendance register for each homeschooled child.

Assessment and Evaluation:

  • While Rhode Island law mandates that the home instruction plan be approved by the local school committee, it does not specify particular assessment or evaluation requirements. However, there should be an agreement between the parents and the local school committee regarding how the child's academic progress will be evaluated.

Teacher Qualifications:

  • Parents are not required to hold a teaching certificate or any other special qualifications to homeschool their children. They must, however, demonstrate the ability to provide "thorough and efficient" instruction.

Additional Considerations:

  • Local Variations:

    • Since approval and oversight occur at the local school district level, specific requirements and procedures may vary. It's essential to consult with your local school superintendent's office for detailed information.

  • Extracurricular Activities:

    • Policies regarding participation in public school extracurricular activities by homeschooled students may differ by district. Parents should inquire with their local school committee about available opportunities.

Resources for Support:

  • Rhode Island Department of Education:

    • Provides official guidelines and resources related to homeschooling.

  • Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA):

    • Offers legal assistance and comprehensive information on homeschooling requirements in Rhode Island.