Vermont Laws and Requirements for Homeschool

In Vermont, homeschooling is recognized as a valid educational option, allowing parents to direct their children's education within specific state guidelines.

1. Notice of Intent to Enroll

  • Submission: Parents or legal guardians must submit a written enrollment notice to the Vermont Agency of Education at least 10 business days before beginning a home study program. This notice should be submitted annually and include:

    • The names and ages of the children to be homeschooled.
    • Contact information for the parents or guardians.
    • An attestation that each child will receive instruction for at least 175 days per year in the required subject areas.
    • For children not previously enrolled in a Vermont public school or home study program, independent professional evidence regarding any documented disabilities and how they may affect the child's educational progress.
    • An attestation that the academic progress of each child will be assessed annually, with records maintained by the parent or guardian.

2. Instructional Requirements

  • Minimum Course of Study: Parents must provide instruction in the following subject areas:

    • Basic communication skills, including reading, writing, and the use of numbers.
    • Citizenship, history, and government in Vermont and the United States.
    • Physical education and comprehensive health education, including the effects of tobacco, alcoholic drinks, and drugs on the human system and on society.
    • English, American, and other literature.
    • The natural sciences.
    • The fine arts.


3. Assessment Requirements

  • Annual Assessment: At the end of each school year, parents must assess their child's academic progress using one of the following methods:

    • A standardized assessment administered by the local school district or a testing service.
    • A review of the student's progress by a Vermont-certified teacher.
    • A parent or guardian report and portfolio, including a summary of the student's learning and samples of work.
    • Grades from an online academy or school.
    • Evidence of passing the GED.


4. Recordkeeping

  • Documentation: While Vermont does not require parents to submit detailed records beyond the annual assessment, it is advisable to maintain thorough records of your child's educational activities, including:

    • Attendance logs.
    • Curriculum materials and resources used.
    • Samples of the student's work.
    • Results of assessments and evaluations.

    These records can be valuable for future educational transitions or if questions arise regarding the home study program.

5. Special Considerations

  • Students with Disabilities: If a child has a documented disability, parents must provide evidence of the disability and explain how it may affect the child's educational progress in the home study program. This information should be included in the initial enrollment notice.


  • Withdrawal from Home Study: If a parent decides to withdraw their child from the home study program, they must notify the Secretary of Education in writing within 10 business days of the withdrawal date.


Vermont Agency of Education