Homeschool Groups in New Hampshire

Is New Hampshire easy to homeschool in?


According to the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA), New Hampshire is considered to be a relatively "easy" state for homeschooling in terms of legal requirements and the overall regulatory environment. New Hampshire has a reputation for being one of the more homeschooling-friendly states in the U.S.


Here are the main features that make New Hampshire homeschooling-friendly:


1. Parental Rights and Freedom

New Hampshire's law strongly supports the right of parents to choose the best educational path for their children, acknowledging home education as a legitimate and valued educational alternative. The state’s recognition of this fundamental right is affirmed by the New Hampshire Supreme Court, which has consistently upheld the idea that parents have the primary responsibility for their children’s education.


2. Minimal Bureaucratic Involvement

While parents are required to file an initial notice of intent to homeschool, this process is relatively simple. Parents must notify a "participating agency" (such as a nonpublic school principal, public school district superintendent, or the state commissioner of education) within five days of starting a homeschool program or moving to a new district. However, the state does not require detailed, ongoing reports or approval for the curriculum, offering flexibility and autonomy to parents.


3. Required Subjects and Curriculum Flexibility

Homeschooling parents must teach core subjects such as science, mathematics, language arts, history, and government, among others. However, New Hampshire does not prescribe specific curricula, allowing parents to choose materials and teaching methods that best suit their child’s learning style and needs.



4. Record-Keeping and Portfolio Maintenance

While homeschooling families must keep records, the state’s requirements are not burdensome. Parents are required to maintain a portfolio of materials, such as logs of reading materials and examples of the child's work, for two years. This enables families to document educational progress without extensive administrative oversight.


5. Annual Evaluation

Parents must annually assess their child’s progress. The evaluation can be done through a variety of methods, including a written assessment by a certified teacher or a standardized test. Importantly, the evaluation results do not need to be submitted to the participating agency but are kept by the parents. This helps preserve the privacy and autonomy of homeschooling families.


6. Graduation Flexibility

Parents can document the completion of a high school-level homeschool program and exempt their child from compulsory attendance before age 18, as long as the child has completed the program. This can be done by submitting a certificate or letter to the Department of Education, simplifying the process of homeschooling through high school.


7. No Special Teacher Qualifications Required

Parents in New Hampshire do not need to meet specific teacher qualifications to homeschool their children. This makes homeschooling accessible to a wide range of families, including those without formal teaching credentials.


Overall, homeschooling in New Hampshire is relatively straightforward and allows for a lot of flexibility. HSLDA ranks it as one of the states with the least burdensome homeschooling laws. However, it is important for homeschooling families to familiarize themselves with the current & specific laws and regulations in New Hampshire, as well as any local district policies that may apply. Staying informed and connected with homeschooling support groups and organizations can also be beneficial for networking and accessing resources.


Homeschool Groups
in New Hampshire &

Homeschool Co-ops in New Hampshire

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Living and homeschooling in New Hampshire offers families a unique combination of educational freedom and a vibrant cultural experience. With a strong tradition of parental rights in education, New Hampshire provides an ideal environment for homeschooling, allowing families to explore learning beyond the classroom. The state's rich history and natural beauty offer endless opportunities for hands-on learning and outdoor activities.


Cultural and Educational Highlights for Homeschooling Families -

  • Mount Washington
    A visit to New England’s tallest peak offers families a chance to learn about geology, weather systems, and the region’s history while enjoying scenic hiking trails.

  • Strawberry Banke Museum in Portsmouth
    This living history museum is a perfect way to immerse children in the region’s colonial past, exploring period homes and interacting with historical reenactors.

  • The Currier Museum of Art in Manchester
    Families can combine art appreciation with creative projects inspired by works from both local and international artists.

  • The New Hampshire State House in Concord
    A tour of the State House introduces students to government, politics, and New Hampshire’s role in American history.

  • Lake Winnipesaukee
    Not only a beautiful recreational spot for swimming, boating, and fishing, the lake also offers a wonderful way to study local ecology and the environment.

Whether you're visiting historic villages, enjoying the outdoor activities that abound in this stunning state, or exploring museums and nature trails, New Hampshire offers homeschoolers a dynamic environment to learn, explore, and grow.

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