Homeschooling in Connecticut

Legal Foundation: CGS Section 10-184

Connecticut's homeschool framework rests on a single statute: Connecticut General Statutes Section 10-184, which addresses compulsory education. Under this law, parents and guardians of children ages 5 through 18 must ensure their children receive instruction in specified subjects. The good news? Connecticut recognizes home instruction as a valid way to meet this obligation, and the state takes a remarkably hands-off approach to how you do it.

Connecticut is classified as a "no notice, low regulation" state, making it one of the most homeschool-friendly environments in the Northeast.

Notification: Not Required, But Recommended

Here is where Connecticut stands out: you are not legally required to notify anyone before you begin homeschooling. There is no mandatory registration, no approval process, and no permission needed from your local school district.

That said, many experienced homeschool families recommend filing a voluntary Notice of Intent with your local superintendent. Why? It creates a paper trail that can protect you if questions about truancy ever arise. The Connecticut Homeschool Network (CHN) provides template letters you can use. If your child is currently enrolled in a public school, you will also want to formally withdraw them in writing to avoid being marked as truant.

Required Subjects

Connecticut law does specify subjects your child must study. Under CGS Section 10-184, instruction must include:

• Reading
• Writing
• Spelling
• English grammar
• Geography
• Arithmetic
• United States history
• Citizenship, including the study of town, state, and federal government

You have complete freedom in choosing your curriculum, teaching methods, and schedule. There is no required number of instructional days or hours per year. You can use religious materials, secular programs, online courses, or any combination that works for your family.

Teacher Qualifications

Connecticut imposes no education requirements on parents who homeschool their children. You do not need a teaching certificate, a college degree, or any specific credential. If you are the parent or legal guardian, you are qualified to teach your child under Connecticut law.

Record Keeping

Connecticut does not require you to maintain or submit any records to the state. There are no mandated portfolios, attendance logs, or progress reports. However, keeping organized records of your curriculum, your child's work samples, and any assessments you choose to administer is strongly recommended. These records can be invaluable for college applications, re-entry into public school, or responding to any inquiries.

Withdrawing from Public School

If your child is currently enrolled in a public or private school, you should submit a formal letter of withdrawal to the school before beginning home instruction. While not explicitly required by statute, this step prevents the school from marking your child as absent or truant. Keep a copy of the letter for your records and consider sending it via certified mail.

State-Level Financial Programs

Connecticut does not currently offer a state-funded ESA (Education Savings Account), voucher program, or homeschool-specific tax credit. The state has not enacted school choice legislation that directly funds homeschool families.

Federal Tax Benefits

Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed in 2025, families nationwide can now withdraw up to $10,000 per year from 529 education savings accounts for qualified K-12 expenses, increasing to $20,000 in 2026. Eligible expenses include curriculum materials, tutoring, and educational supplies. This is the most significant federal financial benefit currently available to Connecticut homeschoolers.

Additionally, a new federal Education Savings Account framework was established that could provide up to $2,000 per student, though states must opt in. As of early 2026, Connecticut has not opted into this program.

Local Resources and Grants

While state funding is limited, Connecticut homeschoolers can access several resources:

• Public library systems - Connecticut's extensive library network provides free access to books, digital resources, databases, and educational programming
• Connecticut Homeschool Network (CHN) - offers member resources, co-op connections, and community support
• TEACH CT - The Education Association of Christian Homeschoolers provides curriculum fairs and group activities
• Homeschool grants - National organizations like the Home School Foundation offer need-based grants for curriculum and supplies

529 Plan: Connecticut CHET

Connecticut's own 529 plan, the Connecticut Higher Education Trust (CHET), can now be used for K-12 homeschool expenses under the expanded federal rules. Connecticut also offers a state income tax deduction of up to $5,000 (or $10,000 for joint filers) for contributions to CHET accounts.