Montana Homeschool State Laws

Please note that laws and regulations may have changed since this update, so it’s always a good idea to verify the information with the Montana Department of Education or a local homeschooling organization for the most up-to-date regulations.

In Montana, homeschooling is legal, and parents have the right to educate their children at home. Here’s a summary of the key points regarding homeschooling in Montana:

• Notification: Montana requires parents or legal guardians who choose to homeschool their children to notify the local county superintendent of schools in writing. The notification must include the names, ages, and addresses of the children being homeschooled, as well as the name and address of the parent or guardian responsible for the homeschooling program.
• Compulsory Attendance: Homeschooled children in Montana must receive instruction for a minimum of 1,080 hours per school year.
• Qualifications: There are no specific educational requirements or qualifications for parents or guardians who wish to homeschool their children in Montana.
• Curriculum: Montana does not prescribe a specific curriculum for homeschooling. Parents have the freedom to choose or develop their own curriculum based on their child’s educational needs and goals.
• Assessments: As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Montana does not require mandatory standardized testing or assessments for homeschooled students. However, it’s worth checking for any updates regarding assessments with the Montana Department of Education.
• Supervision: Montana law does not explicitly require supervision by a certified teacher. The responsibility for the homeschooling program rests with the parents or legal guardians.
• Special Education: If a homeschooled child has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or receives special education services, additional requirements and considerations may apply. It’s important to consult with the local school district or the Montana Department of Education to understand the specific obligations in such cases.

It’s important to note that this is a general summary and not an exhaustive interpretation of Montana’s homeschooling laws. For more detailed and up-to-date information, I recommend contacting the Montana Department of Education or local homeschooling organizations in your area.

Updated October 2023