Welcome to Maine!

We're So Glad You're Here!

Are you planning a move to Maine, or have you just arrived from another state? Maine is one of the best states in the nation to raise a family. Our homeschool community is strong and vibrant, too! We're looking forward to meeting you once you arrive. In the meantime, we know you have lots of questions. 

 

20 FAQs for Homeschool Newcomers

1. What's the homeschool climate like in Maine?

For a couple decades now, homeschooling in Maine has been pretty simple. We’ve had a good relationship with the state government and with the Department of Education. In 2019, however, things started to get a little dicey! HSLDA and HOME have been diligent to protect our rights and our laws, but there is still a bit of instability to work through. The homeschool laws have not changed, but the current administration isn’t content with the laws. We are now in a vigilant watch. We highly recommend joining HSLDA if you are not already a member. 

 

2. How does HOME work to protect homeschool freedom?

HOME works behind the scenes on a daily basis to monitor threats to homeschooling, protect parental rights and ensure education liberty in our state. Read more about what we do in these areas and how we do it!

 

3. What is the homeschool law in Maine? 

Maine is a moderately regulated state. The process to homeschool is pretty simple, but there are a few things to keep track of and send in. Here is the link to a summary of the Maine law.

 

4. When do I need to begin complying with Maine's homeschool law?

Once you establish residency in Maine, you are subject to the requirements of Maine's homeschool statute. This includes filing a notice of intent to homeschool and submitting annual assessment results, even if you arrive in the middle of the school year.

 

5. What are the options for annual assessment?

Read more about annual assessment options in Maine.

 

6. What do I need to know about Maine's immunization law?

Find answers to the most commonly asked questions.  

 

 7. What's the best way to meet families in my area?

1. Churches, libraries, Facebook groups, and HOME Events are good places to meet other      homeschool families.

2. You can also contact your HOME Regional Rep and ask them for suggestions for ways to meet others. 

 

8. When should I file my notice of intent?

There are several answers to this:

 

1. If your child is between the ages of 6 and 17, send your Notice of Intent by September 1st of the coming school year.

2. If you move to Maine after September 1st, file the Notice of Intent within 10 days of moving to Maine.

3. If your child’s 6th birthday occurs sometime during a regular school year, you must file within 10 days of that child’s birthday. (If your child has reached the 17th birthday, filing is not required.)

 

9. We're looking for a place to rent...

https://www.mainehousingsearch.org/

https://www.rent.com/maine  

 

10. Are there any homeschool sports leagues?

Maine is a large, mostly rural state, so it may seem challenging at first to find homeschool sports activities near you. 

 

Options and considerations: 

  1. Some homeschoolers access the public school for sports programs, The public school will have vaccination, health and grade reporting requirements, but Maine homeschool law does allow for homeschoolers to participate on their teams. Find out more about what you can expect. 
  2. HOME offers monthly sports and fitness activities!  
  3. Private schools, usually Christian schools, have been known to enjoy having extra students join their teams. Each school has its own policy. 
  4. There may also be a local YMCA or recreation centers that offer community sports for children. 
  5. Local homeschool groups sometimes coordinate sports activities and programs.  

11. Where can I buy homeschool curriculum, locally?

HOME holds a number of Online Used Curriculum Sales throughout the year. These provide opportunities for you to pick up the curriculum you need at deeply discounted prices. Also, HOME's online bookstore offers unit studies and other helpful resources.

 

12. Can you direct me to a church with homeschoolers in it?

The following churches have been recommended by HOME members as having a “homeschool friendly” congregation. (We will be adding churches as the locations are supplied from our friends and leadership team members.) Check with your HOME Regional Rep, as well.

Cornerstone Baptist Church, Topsham

All Saints Parish, Brunswick

Cornerstone Baptist Church, Camden

Kezar Falls Assembly of God, Parsonsfield

Pathways Community Church, Ellsworth

West Buxton Baptist Church, Buxton

St Gregory the Great Latin Mass Chaplaincy, Lewiston and Portland

Hope Baptist Church, Manchester

 

13. How can I find co-ops, support groups, or classes?

Contact churches, libraries, Facebook groups, or the HOME Regional Rep for your area.

 

14. Where can I find support for military families? 

Contact HOME Military Support Leader, Maresa Kelleher. Scroll down on this page to Special Support Contacts. Also, read 6 Steps for a Smooth Transition to a New Duty Station. In addition, HSLDA members can contact Natalie Mack, HSLDA's Military Community Outreach Coordinator.  

 

15. Can I homeschool and still work a 40 hour a week job?

Homeschooling is a way of life, and many families do work and homeschool successfully. It may take a bit of creativity and trial and error to find a schedule that works for your family, but it can be done. You may want to consider joining our Facebook page, "Working and Homeschooling in Maine," to connect with other families who are, or have, worked and homeschooled.

 

16. Where can I get curriculum recommendations and reviews?

1. Leaders of co-ops

2. Facebook groups

3. HOME has Curriculum Counseling available to help you choose your materials. Visit HOME's online bookstore, too.

4. Cathy Duffy Homeschool Reviews

5. The Secular Homeschooler has a “Secular Rating” system of curriculum - you can see the whole list here: https://www.secularhomeschooler.com/secular-homeschool-guide/

 

17. Do any Maine colleges have dual enrollment opportunities?

High school juniors and seniors who meet certain requirements are eligible to enroll in the University of Maine's Early College for ME program. 

 

1. Free for qualified students

2. Learn more about Early College Programs at each of Maine’s Public Universities.

 

18. Where does my high schooler take the college board SATs?

        SATs may be taken at any public high school. Vaccine restrictions may apply. You may want to                consider an alternative, such as the Classic Learning Test. Find out more. 

 

19. What is there to see and do in Maine?

There's no shortage of things to do in our state, whether you're a history buff or a nature lover! As you may have discovered, Maine Studies is a required subject (to be covered once in one grade between grades 6 -12)! Use your newly arrived status to learn more about Maine and cover this course requirement, too! 

 

20. Can I support the work of HOME?

Yes! HOME wouldn't be here without faithful supporters. Please do join the mission of HOME!

 

MORE FAQs

Find the answers to more commonly asked questions about homeschooling in Maine!