Yes, homeschooling is legal in Connecticut under state statutes and regulations. Parents must file an annual Notice of Intent with the local superintendent, provide instruction in subjects equivalent to public schools, and ensure annual assessments for students in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. Local boards of education may impose additional requirements, and the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) monitors compliance through periodic reviews.
Key Regulations for Homeschooling in Connecticut
- Annual Notice of Intent: Parents must submit a written notice to the local superintendent by August 15 or within 10 days of withdrawing a child from public school, detailing the homeschool program’s curriculum and instruction hours.
- Subject Requirements: Instruction must cover the same subjects as public schools, including reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, physical education, and U.S. history. The CSDE provides a recommended framework, but local districts may enforce stricter standards.
- Assessment Mandates: Students in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 must undergo standardized testing or portfolio reviews annually. Results must be submitted to the local board by June 30, with accommodations available for students with disabilities.
Local boards of education retain discretion over approvals and may conduct home visits or interviews to verify compliance. Failure to adhere to these requirements may result in compulsory attendance enforcement. The CSDE’s 2026 compliance guidelines emphasize digital record-keeping and transparency, reflecting recent shifts toward stricter oversight of non-traditional education models.