How to start homeschooling in Rhode Island

Everything you need to legally begin homeschooling in Rhode Island, broken into clear steps. Plan to spend about an hour completing the paperwork before your first day.

The short version

Rhode Island requires district approval of homeschool plans. Each district sets its own requirements.

The full process, step by step

Step 1

Contact your local school committee for district-specific requirements.

Step 2

Prepare a homeschool plan covering subjects, methods, and assessment.

Step 3

Submit for approval before starting.

Step 4

Submit a withdrawal letter to your child's public school if applicable.

Step 5

Submit attendance records and complete agreed-on evaluation.

Things that help on day one

A binder, folder, or app to keep paperwork in one place.
Your child's most recent report card or academic records.
A simple weekly rhythm sketched out — even one bullet list of subjects per day.
A camera or phone for documenting the first weeks of moments.
A list of any homeschool co-ops, libraries, or community groups in your area.

Disclaimer: This guide summarises commonly known Rhode Island homeschool requirements. Laws change. For official, up-to-date legal guidance, consult the HSLDA state guide or your state Department of Education before submitting paperwork.

Read the full Rhode Island homeschool law summary →

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