GETTING STARTED
It can feel confusing or overwhelming for many parents when they first consider the option of homeschooling. We've created this page to make it clear and easy for you! The state of Maryland only has a few requirements and an amazing option for joining an umbrella group. If you have any questions after reading this page please reach out to us. We'd love to help!
Step by Step: How to Legally Homeschool
by Suri Kinzbrunner
In the state of Maryland, by law, children between the ages of 5 and 18 must attend public school regularly (note: if your child is younger than 5 by Sept 1st, you don’t need to do anything because they do not legally have to be in school!). Our state fortunately also recognizes private school as well as homeschooling as alternative options.
In order to homeschool legally, first time homeschool students need to email the Home Instruction Notification Form to homeinstruction@mcpsmd.org
This is the form for first time homeschool students:
Ideally, the form should be sent in by August 15 (at least “15 days” prior to the start of the school year), but if not, it’s ok, just send it in as soon as you can.
In section III of this form, if you choose to homeschool using Program Choice Type A, you will need to keep a portfolio for your child with materials that demonstrate that “regular, thorough instruction is being provided”. The portfolio will be reviewed by “local school system personnel at least twice a year”.
Most of us Silver Spring Jewish Homeschoolers choose to homeschool using Program Choice Type B, which is also known as the “umbrella option”. With this option, you will review with your umbrella school instead of the county. The umbrella that many of us use is the Lubavitch Homeschool Umbrella (LHUG). Their website is very helpful as well and can be found here:
If you choose to homeschool using this option, please contact Bethany by email at silverspringjewishhomeschool@gmail.com as approval is needed before joining. Once approval has been granted, this is the information to enter in that section:
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Lubavitch home-school umbrella program
770 Howes Lane, Columbia, MD 21044
You should also fill out the LHUG registration form found here:
​​​Payment for LHUG supervision is $50 and should be sent to:
After your child’s first year of homeschooling, Montgomery County requires an annual notification form to be emailed to the same address.
This is the form for continuing homeschool students:
If you are homeschooling under LHUG, you will also submit the LHUG registration and payment annually.
