HAWAII HOMESCHOOL LAW

Compulsory School Age: 6 - 18 (by January 1)

Hawaii state law offers two legal homeschooling options: 1) establish and operate a homeschool or 2) enroll in a state-approved alternative educational program.

1. The first option is to establish and operate a homeschool.  Under this option, a notice of intent must be filed with the principal of the public school that the child would otherwise attend prior to starting homeschool.  This is not required annually, but the same principal must be notified once more within five days of ending homeschooling.  There are no specific required subjects for this homeschool option; however, the curriculum must be based on current educational content, suitable to the child's abilities and interests, and must be taught in a sequential manner.  A record of the child's curriculum must be maintained and standardized testing (chosen by the parent) is required when the child is in grades 3, 6, 8, and 10.  Parents must also submit an annual progress report to the local principal.  This report must be comprised of one of the following: 1) standardized test scores, 2) a written evaluation from a certified teacher, or 3) a written evaluation from the parent.  There are no regulations specifying attendance or parent/teacher qualifications.

2. The second option is to enroll in an alternative educational program that is approved by the school superintendent.  Under this option, the superintendent will establish the attendance policy and curriculum.  The child's instructor must possess a bachelor's degree.  Participation in statewide testing is required.  No notification to the school board is required and there are no requirements regarding recordkeeping.

Hawaii Department of Education does not award credit for time spent homeschooling.  Diplomas may be earned through the adult community school upon successful completion of the GED test.

Find a homeschool group in Hawaii.

View these websites for more information about Hawaii homeschool laws:

• Home School Legal Defense Association

• National Home Education Network

• Hawaii Education Code for Homeschooling

• Hawaii Department of Education

• Hawaii Homeschool Association

Please note: This is a brief summary of Hawaii homeschool law and is presented for informative purposes only and not as legal advice.