How to withdraw your child from public school and homeschool in Maryland

Step by step

1. Step 1. Know what Maryland requires to start

   A parent signs a statement on a form prescribed by the Maryland State Department of Education consenting to the home instruction requirements, and submits it to the local superintendent at least 15 days before home instruction begins (COMAR 13A.10.01.01B(1)). The MSDE FAQ says to get the form from the local school system, and it is notice plus consent to portfolio review, with no approval step. Families may instead be supervised by a church umbrella or approved nonpublic school (COMAR 13A.10.01.05).

2. Step 2. Leave the school the right way

   The MSDE FAQ says a parent can be held responsible for unexcused absences if the child is withdrawn from public school but the consent form has not been filed and instruction has not begun. Maryland sources we read do not describe a separate withdrawal form, exit meeting or school signature; contact the local school system for its procedure.

3. Step 3. Watch the deadlines

   The form is due at least 15 days before the program begins, so a mid-year withdrawal is subject to the same 15 days. Each year before the school year the parent verifies continuation with the local superintendent, and must report any change in status during the year (COMAR 13A.10.01.01B(2) and (3)). Portfolio reviews occur at the end of each semester, no more than three a year.

4. Step 4. Ask for your child’s records

   Maryland sources we read do not describe a state records right on withdrawal; not found in primary sources. Federal FERPA (34 CFR 99.10) gives a parent the right to inspect and review, and to request a copy of, the child's education records.

5. Step 5. If your child has an IEP or a 504 plan

   The MSDE FAQ directs questions on special education services to the local school system and does not describe a state IEP withdrawal form; not found in primary sources. Under the federal rule 34 CFR 300.300(b)(4), if a parent revokes consent in writing for continued special education and related services, the school may not keep providing them and must give prior written notice before stopping.

Before you pull your child out

A letter you can fill in

Fill in the boxes and copy the letter. It is built from what we found above for Maryland: the items Maryland asks to be included are listed in it. Check it against the state office before you send it.

[today's date]

To: The superintendent of my local school system [name and address]

Re: Notice of intent to home school, [child's full name]

Dear Sir or Madam:

I am the parent of [child's full name], born [date of birth], who is currently enrolled in grade [grade] at [name of current school]. Under COMAR 13A.10.01.01 to .05, I am notifying you that I will be providing a home education program for my child beginning [start date].

Maryland asks that this notice include the following (complete or confirm each one):
- Child's name [fill in]
- Parent or guardian name and signature [fill in]
- Consent to the home instruction requirements [fill in]
- Date home instruction will begin [fill in]

Please also treat this letter as my notice that my child is withdrawn from [name of current school] effective [start date].

I also request a copy of my child's education records, including the cumulative file, attendance and any testing records. Please send them to the address below.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

[your name]
[your address]

Who to ask in Maryland

Maryland State Department of Education, Home Instruction FAQs, last checked October 2026.

A plain-language summary of public sources, not legal advice. Laws and forms change, so confirm the current rules with the state office before you send anything.

Questions