Homeschooling in Vermont: The Complete 2026 Guide

by | Jun 26, 2026 | Homeschooling in Vermont

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Homeschooling in Vermont: The Complete 2026 Guide

Vermont homeschooling has grown 17% in the past year. If you’re considering teaching your child at home in the Green Mountain State, you have a supportive regulatory environment, strong community networks, and practical advantages that make homeschooling work.

This guide covers everything: laws, compliance, costs, organizations, how to get started, and Vermont-specific opportunities.

Key Takeaways

  • Vermont allows homeschooling with light regulation: Simple annual enrollment notice, 175-day requirement, end-of-year assessment kept on file
  • 2023 changes simplified compliance: No more curriculum or assessment submission to state
  • Homeschooling costs $200-$1,500/year (curriculum + materials); Vermont provides no tuition but also no public school materials
  • Access to free dual enrollment: High school homeschoolers can take college courses for credit
  • Strong community: VHEN connects families; co-ops meet regularly; homeschool-friendly culture in most regions
  • Multiple pathways: Full homeschooling, co-ops, hybrid public school, virtual schools, or combinations
  • Sports access: YES—homeschoolers can participate in public school sports and activities

Vermont Homeschooling at a Glance

Factor Details
Regulation Level Light (annual notice, 175 days, EOYA)
Curriculum Control Parent chooses
State Submission Only enrollment notice (10 days before start)
Assessment EOYA kept on file; not submitted to state
Cost Free tuition; $200-$1.5K/year curriculum
Teacher Requirements Parent with bachelor’s degree OR high school diploma + 2 years experience OR hired instructor
Subjects Required By age/grade level (varies)
School Days 175 minimum per year
Legal Status Fully legal; well-established
Growth 17% increase 2024-25
Community Strong; VHEN + co-ops + regional networks

Vermont Homeschool Laws: What Changed in 2023

Vermont simplified homeschool regulations in 2023. Understanding what changed helps you know what’s required now.

Before 2023 (Old System)

Families had to submit:
– Detailed course of study (what you’d teach) to state
– Annual assessment results (test scores or portfolio) to state
– Teacher qualifications verification

After 2023 (Current System)

Families now:
– File simple enrollment notice (1-page form, 10 days before school starts)
– Keep End of Year Assessment on file (not submitted to state)
– Document instructional competency (simplified verification)
– No curriculum submission required
– No assessment submission required

Result: Less bureaucracy, more autonomy, clearer process.

Compliance Requirements

The Basics

To homeschool legally in Vermont, you must:

  1. File enrollment notice with Vermont Secretary of Education 10 days before school starts
  2. Maintain 175 school days per year (documented)
  3. Attest to instructional competency:
    – Parent with bachelor’s degree, OR
    – Parent with high school diploma + 2 years homeschool experience, OR
    – Hired instructor with appropriate qualifications
  4. Complete End of Year Assessment (kept on file 3-7 years):
    – Standardized test scores, OR
    – Portfolio (work samples + summary), OR
    – Professional evaluation, OR
    – Narrative assessment

What Vermont does NOT require:
– Curriculum submission
– Assessment submission to state
– Teacher licensing
– Regular check-ins or inspections
– Specific textbooks or programs

Homeschooling in vermont/vermont homeschool compliance checklist

Required Subjects by Grade

K-5: Language arts, math, science, social studies, PE, visual arts, music

6-8: Language arts, math, science, social studies, PE, visual arts, music, computer/tech, library skills

9-12: English language arts, math, science, social studies, PE, fine/performing arts, computer literacy

Curriculum doesn’t have to be traditional; projects, books, and activities can cover requirements.

Homeschooling in vermont/vermont homeschool record keeping

Costs of Homeschooling in Vermont

Curriculum and Materials (Biggest Cost)

Budget: $200-$1,500/year

Varies based on:
– DIY/free approach: $200-$500/year (library books, free online resources, minimal materials)
– Mid-range curriculum: $600-$1,000/year (textbooks, workbooks, educational software)
– Premium curriculum: $1,000-$1,500/year (multiple programs, tutoring materials, specialty subjects)

Sample breakdown for one child (mid-range):
– Math curriculum: $150
– Language arts curriculum: $200
– Science materials: $100
– History/social studies: $100
– Art/music supplies: $100
– Technology/software: $100
– Books and reading materials: $100
– Misc. supplies: $150
– Total: ~$900

Co-Op and Tutoring (Optional Add-Ons)

  • Co-op tuition: $300-$800/year (1-2 days/week instruction + materials)
  • Tutoring: $40-$150/hour (supplemental help in specific subjects)
  • Online courses: $200-$1,000/year (if using virtual schools)

What’s Free

  • Tuition: Vermont public schools are free; homeschooling is also free (no tuition cost)
  • Dual enrollment: Vermont offers free dual enrollment for high school students taking college courses
  • Library services: Free access to local library resources
  • VHEN membership: Free to join Vermont Home Education Network
  • Co-op access: Some co-ops are low-cost or donation-based

Homeschooling in vermont/dual enrollment vermont

Hidden Costs (Be Aware)

  • Testing: Standardized tests for EOYA ($30-$100)
  • Field trips: Transportation and entrance fees ($100-$500/year if active)
  • Extracurriculars: Sports, music lessons, classes ($50-$200+/month)
  • Technology: Laptop, internet, software subscriptions ($50-$150/month if purchasing)

Realistic total budget: $500-$2,000+ per child per year (including curriculum + optional co-op/tutoring)

Getting Started: Step by Step

Step 1: Learn the Laws (January-March)

  • Read Vermont homeschool regulations on Department of Education website
  • Understand 175-day requirement and EOYA options
  • Check required subjects for your child’s age
  • Review competency requirements

Step 2: Connect with Community (March-July)

  • Join VHEN (Vermont Home Education Network): Email, Facebook groups, regional chapters
  • Explore co-ops: Attend meetings, learn what’s available in your area
  • Talk to homeschooling families: Get real-world advice and encouragement
  • Visit VHEN gatherings: Annual convention in spring often held in Vermont

Homeschooling in vermont/vermont homeschool coop community

Step 3: Choose Your Approach (June-July)

Decide:
– Full homeschooling (all subjects at home)
– Co-op hybrid (homeschool + co-op instruction)
– Public school hybrid (homeschool + part-time school enrollment)
– Dual enrollment (homeschool + college courses)
– Combination: Mix of above

Step 4: Select Curriculum (July-August)

Based on your approach, choose:
– Core subjects curriculum (math, language arts, science, history)
– Elective materials
– Supplemental resources
– Co-op/tutoring programs if using them

Resources for curriculum selection:
– Homeschool curriculum fairs (often in Vermont spring/summer)
– Online reviews (well-trained, Homeschool.com, etc.)
– VHEN recommendations
– Trial periods (many offer 30-day trials)

Step 5: File Enrollment Notice (10 Days Before Start)

  • Complete Vermont homeschool enrollment notice
  • Include dates of school year (e.g., August 25, 2025 – May 30, 2026)
  • Confirm 175 days
  • Attest to instructional competency
  • Mail or file online

Homeschooling in vermont/vermont homeschool compliance checklist

Step 6: Begin School

  • Establish routines and schedules
  • Pace yourself (first month is adjustment)
  • Connect with co-op if using
  • Track attendance as you go

Step 7: Complete EOYA by Year-End

  • Choose EOYA method (test, portfolio, evaluation, or narrative)
  • Complete by May/June
  • Keep on file safely

Required Subjects Deep Dive

By Age

Kindergarten-1st Grade Focus:
– Phonics and early reading
– Number concepts and counting
– Observation and exploration (science)
– Community and family (social studies)
– Fine motor skills through art
– Movement and PE

2nd-3rd Grade Focus:
– Reading fluency and comprehension
– Arithmetic facts and concepts
– Life science and earth science observations
– Local and state history/geography
– Writing and handwriting

4th-5th Grade Focus:
– Reading for understanding across genres
– Multi-digit math operations
– Physical science, life science, earth science
– State and national history
– Research and report writing
– Library skills

6th-8th Grade Focus:
– Reading across genres with analysis
– Pre-algebra or algebra I
– General science or specialized science (biology)
– World history or ancient civilizations
– Written expression and analysis
– Computer skills and technology literacy

9th-12th Grade Focus:
– English language arts (literature, composition, analysis)
– Mathematics (algebra, geometry, precalculus, calculus)
– Science (biology, chemistry, physics)
– Social studies (world history, civics, economics)
– Fine and performing arts
– Computer and information literacy
– Electives (languages, career tech, AP courses, etc.)

Customizing Required Subjects

Required subjects don’t require specific textbooks. You can cover them through:
– Books and literature: History through historical fiction, science through nature reading
– Projects: Math through cooking, engineering, or design
– Field trips: Science through nature center visits, history through museum field trips
– Online courses: Dual enrollment, VTVLC, Khan Academy, etc.
– Hands-on learning: Science experiments, building projects, citizen science
– Life experience: Travel for geography/history, cooking for math/science, apprenticeships for career tech

The requirement is coverage, not method.

Vermont-Specific Advantages

Free Dual Enrollment

Vermont offers free dual enrollment for high school homeschoolers. High school students (typically 9th-12th grade, sometimes younger) can take college courses tuition-free.

Benefits:
– Access advanced coursework (AP, honors, specialized)
– Build college transcript while in high school
– Earn college credit
– Access college peers and professors
– Increase college application credibility

How to access:
– Contact local community college or university
– Enroll in specific courses (asynchronous or in-person)
– Take at own pace (often flexible)
– Earn official college transcript

This is transformative for gifted or advanced learners. Many Vermont homeschoolers complete 6+ college courses by graduation.

Homeschooling in vermont/dual enrollment vermont

Sports and Activities Access

YES—homeschoolers in Vermont can participate in public school sports, clubs, and activities.

Specifics vary by school district, but many allow:
– Sports: Joining high school teams (soccer, basketball, track, etc.)
– Clubs: Academic clubs, performing arts, competitions
– Fine arts: Band, orchestra, drama
– Academic competitions: Debate, science fairs, robotics

Check with your local school district about:
– Eligibility requirements (grades, academic standing)
– Enrollment process
– Fees (if any)
– Availability by sport/activity

This is huge for homeschoolers wanting sports, performing arts, or competitive activities without full school enrollment.

Vermont Town School Choice

Some Vermont towns don’t operate schools. Families get tuition paid to an approved school. If you’re in one of these towns, you can use tuition for homeschooling consultation or tutoring. Worth checking if this applies to you.

Vermont Homeschooling Organizations

VHEN (Vermont Home Education Network)

What: Advocacy and support network for Vermont homeschoolers
Membership: Free to join
Resources:
– Facebook groups and forums
– Annual convention (spring, in Vermont)
– Regional chapters
– Co-op connections
– Curriculum swaps and sales
– Legal advocacy

Contact: VermontHomeschool.org or Facebook

HomeschoolingInVermont.com

What: Community forum and resource hub specific to Vermont
Resources:
– Co-op listings
– Curriculum recommendations
– Legal information
– Family introductions and networking

Local Co-Ops

Varying by region; VHEN can connect you. Most regions (Chittenden, Rutland, Orange, Franklin, etc.) have at least one co-op.

Co-op benefits:
– 1-2 days per week instruction
– Professional teachers
– Peer socialization
– Structured accountability
– Co-learning with other families
– Cost: $300-$800/year

Vermont Family Network

What: Resources for families of children with special health care needs
Helpful for: Homeschoolers managing special needs, IEPs, therapies, evaluations

Disability Rights Vermont

What: Advocacy for special education rights
Helpful for: Families navigating Child Find, IEP disputes, special services

Homeschooling in vermont/vermont homeschool iep special education

Special Situations

Homeschooling with Special Needs

  • Vermont doesn’t provide free SPED to homeschoolers
  • You provide your own accommodations
  • Child Find allows you to request evaluation (free assessment)
  • You can re-enroll in school for SPED services mid-year if needed

Homeschooling in vermont/vermont homeschool iep special education

Homeschooling Gifted Learners

  • Acceleration (faster pacing) is effective
  • Customization allows depth over breadth
  • Dual enrollment ideal for advanced high schoolers
  • Co-ops provide peer engagement

Homeschooling in vermont/homeschool gifted vermont

Homeschooling with ADHD

  • Structure, routine, and movement breaks help
  • Shorter work blocks (20-30 min) work better
  • External accountability (co-ops, tutors) beneficial
  • Medication timing important

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Military Families Homeschooling

Vermont’s Guard/Reserve presence (158th FW, Camp Johnson, Army Mountain Warfare School, Coast Guard) creates military-friendly homeschool community. Guard families appreciate flexibility around training schedules.

Homeschooling in vermont/military homeschool vermont

College Preparation

Homeschoolers are successfully admitted to colleges nationwide. Key elements:

Documentation

  • Course descriptions (curriculum used, topics, hours)
  • Work samples (portfolio showing rigor)
  • Transcripts (courses with grades/completion, dual enrollment transcripts)
  • Test scores (SAT, ACT, CLT, AP exams)

Homeschooling in vermont/homeschool portfolio vermont

Building Credibility

  • Dual enrollment: Official college transcripts
  • Standardized testing: ACT/SAT scores
  • Advanced coursework: AP exams, honors courses
  • Competitions: Science fairs, debate, robotics awards
  • Service: Documented volunteer work

Starting Early

Begin building documentation in 9th grade (or earlier for high school coursework). By graduation, you’ll have portfolio of: course descriptions, work samples, test scores, and achievements.

Hybrid and Alternative Models

Option: Co-Op Homeschooling

Homeschool core academics (custom pacing, at-home instruction) + co-op 1-2 days/week (structured classes, peer interaction).

  • Best of both worlds: flexibility + structure
  • Most popular model in Vermont
  • Cost: $300-$800/year co-op + curriculum costs

Homeschooling in vermont/vermont homeschool coop community

Option: Part-Time Public School

Some districts allow part-time enrollment: Homeschool some subjects, attend school for others.

  • Less common but growing
  • Great for specific needs (SPED, sports, advanced courses)
  • Cost: Free (public school portion) + curriculum (homeschool portion)

Option: Dual Enrollment Focus

Homeschool K-8, then high school through dual enrollment (college courses).

  • Ideal for gifted/advanced learners
  • Builds college transcript early
  • Cost: Free (Vermont dual enrollment)

Option: Virtual + Homeschool

  • Use VTVLC for specific courses (structured, teacher-led)
  • Homeschool core academics (custom pacing, flexible)
  • Cost: Free (both VTVLC and homeschooling)

Homeschooling in vermont/vermont virtual school vs homeschool

Common Questions

Q: Is homeschooling legal in Vermont?
A: Yes, fully legal and well-established with clear regulations.

Q: Can homeschoolers participate in public school sports?
A: Yes—check with your district on eligibility.

Q: Do I have to be a teacher?
A: No. You need a bachelor’s degree OR high school diploma + 2 years homeschool experience OR hire an instructor.

Q: What if my child has special needs?
A: Homeschooling works for many special needs; you provide accommodations. Re-enroll option for SPED services. Homeschooling in vermont/vermont homeschool iep special education

Q: How much does it cost?
A: Tuition is free; curriculum costs $200-$1,500/year. Co-op and tutoring are optional add-ons.

Q: Can my child go to college?
A: Yes. Strong documentation (portfolio, transcripts, test scores) supports college admission.

Q: What if I want to stop homeschooling mid-year?
A: You can re-enroll in public school. Vermont allows mid-year enrollment.

Getting Started Checklist

  • [ ] Read Vermont homeschool laws
  • [ ] Join VHEN and connect with families
  • [ ] Research co-ops and homeschool approaches
  • [ ] Decide on curriculum
  • [ ] File enrollment notice (10 days before start)
  • [ ] Begin school year
  • [ ] Track 175 days
  • [ ] Complete EOYA by year-end
  • [ ] Plan next year

Resources and Links

Vermont Department of Education: education.vermont.gov (homeschool section)

VHEN: VermontHomeschool.org

HomeschoolingInVermont.com: Community forum and resources

Vermont Family Network: Support for special needs

Disability Rights Vermont: Special education advocacy

Local library: Field trips, resources, community

Community colleges: Dual enrollment information

The Bottom Line

Homeschooling in Vermont is viable, legal, well-supported, and increasingly common (17% growth in 2024-25).

Vermont offers:
– Light regulation (simple, clear requirements)
– Community support (VHEN, co-ops, tight-knit families)
– Practical advantages (free dual enrollment, sports access, rural-friendly)
– Flexibility (customize curriculum, pace, schedule)
– Cost-effective (free tuition; reasonable curriculum costs)

Start with compliance basics: understand 175 days, file enrollment notice, plan EOYA. Layer in community connection, co-op if desired, and sustainable routines.

Most Vermont homeschoolers report high satisfaction, strong family bonds, and successful academic outcomes.

You don’t need permission to start. You need a plan. Use this guide, connect with VHEN, and begin.

Vermont’s homeschooling community is ready to support you.

Explore All Vermont Homeschooling Topics

This is the complete Vermont homeschooling hub. See our Homeschooling by State directory for all 50 states.

Laws & Requirements

Getting Started

Curriculum & Methods

Costs & Finances

Community & Socialization

High School & College Prep

Sports & Activities

Special Needs

Alternatives Comparison

Record Keeping & Compliance

Other