Getting started
Once your child turns 7, notify your school district superintendent by October 1 each school year (or within 15 days of withdrawing from public school). Your notice must include your child's name and birth date, the standardized test you plan to use, instructor names, evidence of instructor qualifications if applicable, and immunization documentation.
Instructor qualifications
Parents teaching their own children are automatically qualified — no degree or license is required. If someone other than a parent provides instruction, they must hold a Minnesota teaching license, work under direct supervision of a licensed teacher, provide instruction through an accredited school, or hold a baccalaureate degree (Minn. Stat. §120A.22).
Required subjects
Minnesota requires instruction in reading, writing, literature, fine arts, mathematics, science, history, geography, economics, government, citizenship, health, and physical education. Each subject should be taught at an age-appropriate level every year during elementary and middle school, and at least once during high school.
Annual testing
Annual standardized achievement testing is required using a nationally norm-referenced test agreed upon with your district superintendent. If your child scores at or below the 30th percentile, or one full grade below children of the same age, you must have your child evaluated for learning difficulties.
Test results are kept privately — they are not submitted to the district. Families using accredited homeschools through a recognized Minnesota accrediting association are exempt from the testing requirement.
Keeping records
Maintain class schedules, copies of instructional materials, and descriptions of assessment methods. Keep records for at least two years; high school records indefinitely.
Extracurricular access
Minnesota homeschoolers have strong access to public school extracurricular activities, including sports and arts programs.