New Hampshire recognizes the natural right for a parent to direct their children’s education; therefore, homeschooling is considered a fundamental right (N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 193-A:2; Appeal of Pierce, 451 A.2d 363 [1982]).
The following guidelines will help you to homeschool in compliance with state law.
1. Provide notification to the authorities, if appropriate
Parents have the right to establish a homeschool program for his or her own child without notifying the school district.
A declaration of home education is not required unless a parent withdraws a student from public school or seeks access to public school programs. Otherwise, a parent may establish a home education program without filing a declaration.
Upon request, the resident district superintendent shall work with parents in meeting the goals of their home education program.
2. Consider obtaining a certificate of completion
If desired, a parent may self-certify that a student has completed a home education program. A certificate may be particularly useful when a student completes the program before age 18. HSLDA members may use the model certificate provided below.
If the parent submits the certificate to the commissioner of the department of education, the commissioner must issue a state certificate of completion within 30 days.
If you are an HSLDA member and would like to discuss the benefits of certifying your student, feel free to contact HSLDA.
3. No additional requirements
New Hampshire law does not prescribe any additional requirements. You may legally operate your homeschool program following your own guidelines.
No state or local official may adopt or enforce a policy governing homeschool students, except for policies concerning access to public school courses and programs (RSA 193:1-c).
Please note: The information on this page has been reviewed by an attorney, but it should not be taken as legal advice specific to your individual situation.