Homeschool Guide

How to Homeschool in Rhode Island

Here is exactly what Rhode Island requires to homeschool legally - how to notify (if needed), what records to keep, testing rules, and how to get started.

Last updated June 2026

Notice required
Required
Instructional days
Regular instruction
Portfolio
Required
Testing / evaluation
Not required

Rhode Island homeschool requirements

  • Notification: Obtain approval from your local school committee before beginning; requirements vary by district and are renewed annually.
  • Required subjects: Cover Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, English, History, Civics, Health, Physical Education.
  • Teacher requirement: No teacher certification is required to teach your own children.
  • Portfolio / records: Keep attendance records for the same number of days as public schools, plus records of instruction.
  • Testing / evaluation: Some districts require an evaluation method (progress report, portfolio, or test).
  • Recordkeeping: No retention period is set by the state; keep records organized year to year.

Key dates & deadlines

At the start of the yearFile your required notification with the district or state.
AnnuallyRenew your notification.

Getting started in Rhode Island

  1. File your required notification with your district or the state (see requirements above).
  2. Set up simple records: a log of instruction and samples of your child’s work.
  3. Choose curriculum covering Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, English, History, Civics, Health, Physical Education.
  4. Keep your records organized from year to year.

Scholarships & funding in Rhode Island

Rhode Island does not currently run a state scholarship or education savings account program that homeschool families can use. Families here typically fund curriculum and materials themselves, which makes keeping clean purchase records useful at tax time and if the state's rules change.

Official resources

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to notify the state to homeschool in Rhode Island?
Obtain approval from your local school committee before beginning; requirements vary by district and are renewed annually.
Do I need to be a certified teacher?
No - there is no teacher-certification requirement.
Is standardized testing required?
No - Rhode Island does not mandate standardized testing.
How long should I keep records?
No retention period is mandated, but keeping thorough records is strongly recommended.
Is there scholarship or ESA funding for homeschoolers in Rhode Island?
Not at present. Rhode Island has no state scholarship or education savings account program open to homeschool families, though families still commonly track purchases for their own budgeting.
What subjects must I teach in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island requires you to cover Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, English, History, Civics, Health, Physical Education. Beyond that the choice of curriculum and approach is yours.
How many days or hours of instruction does Rhode Island require?
Rhode Island does not set a specific hours or days requirement for homeschoolers. Keeping a simple record of instruction is still worthwhile if your circumstances change.
Track all of this automatically

Beyond My Books logs your Rhode Island instructional days, required subjects, portfolio, and deadlines - and warns you before anything is due.

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This guide is general information, not legal advice. Homeschool laws change - verify current requirements with your Rhode Island department of education or county superintendent.