Homeschooling in Delaware: A-Z Guide 2025

Homeschooling in Delaware has become an increasingly popular choice for families seeking more control over their child’s education. Whether you're just getting started or exploring alternatives to traditional school systems, understanding the legal requirements, available resources, and practical steps involved is essential.

This guide provides a clear and up-to-date overview of how homeschooling in Delaware works, including registration procedures, compliance with state laws, creating a flexible curriculum, and connecting with local communities. We’ll also cover important topics, such as financial considerations, diplomas, and where to find support, so you can homeschool with confidence and stay compliant every step of the way.

TL;DR

• Register via EdAccess as a single- or multi-family

• Report enrollment (Aug–Sept) + attendance (June–July)

• No required subjects or tests. The curriculum is parent-led

• Parents issue diplomas and maintain transcripts

• Special needs services may be available via public schools

• No state funding, but low-cost tools and co-ops help

• Popular options: TSHA, Time4Learning, Easy Peasy

Homeschooling Popularity in Delaware

Homeschooling in Delaware has gained significant traction in recent years. According to the Delaware Department of Education, there are over 2,500 registered homeschools, with nearly 4,500 students, representing roughly 4% of the state's school-age population.

More families are choosing homeschooling because it gives them the flexibility to set their own schedules, teach in a way that works best for their child, and feel confident about safety and values at home.

To make things easier, Delaware’s Department of Education now lets you register your homeschool quickly through the EdAccess portal. Whether you're homeschooling on your own or with other families, the system supports both. It also helps you stay on track with clear rules for reporting enrollment and attendance.

With more families making the switch, the state is offering better resources, stronger legal support, and growing community networks to help you homeschool with confidence

Delaware Homeschool Laws and Requirements

Delaware recognizes homeschooling as a legal, viable alternative to public and private schooling. To homeschool in Delaware legally, parents must establish their homeschool through the Delaware Department of Education’s (DDOE) Nonpublic School (NPS) system via the EdAccess portal. 

When registering, you’ll choose between a single-family homeschool, where instruction is parent-led within one household, or a multi-family homeschool, which involves multiple families and a liaison responsible for reporting to DDOE. 

Key Legal Guidelines

• Mandatory school age: Children aged 5 (on or before August 31) through 16 must be enrolled in either public or nonpublic school to meet compulsory attendance.

• Annual enrollment: Each year between August 11 and September 30, homeschoolers (or their liaison) must report enrollment via the EdAccess system; missing this window may result in NPS status closure.

• Annual attendance: Between June 1 and July 31, homeschool administrators must report aggregate attendance (total school days and total student days attended).

• Withdrawal from public school: You must register your homeschool before withdrawing from a Delaware public school. The Acknowledgment Letter generated through EdAccess is required for public schools to process the withdrawal.

• Curriculum and Assessment: The DDOE does not mandate any specific curriculum or standardized testing, nor does it provide or assess academic materials for nonpublic schools. Parents are encouraged to maintain an academic portfolio, including graded work, attendance logs, and assessments, to support student progression and future applications to colleges or public schools .

Delaware Homeschool Curriculum Guidelines and Testing

One of the most important things to know about homeschooling in Delaware is that the state does not require parents to follow a specific curriculum or administer standardized testing. This gives families the flexibility to design a program that matches their child’s needs, interests, and educational goals.

Curriculum Guidelines

Delaware law requires that homeschoolers receive “regular and thorough instruction,” but it does not define which subjects must be taught or how instruction should be delivered. This allows for full customization of your homeschool plan.

Key curriculum considerations:

• You are free to choose from secular, religious, or hybrid curriculum options.

• There is no required list of subjects, but most families cover core areas like:

  • English/language arts

  • Math

  • Science

  • Social studies/history

• You can build your curriculum using:

  • Online programs (e.g., Time4Learning, Khan Academy, ABCmouse)

  • Traditional textbooks

  • Unschooling or interest-led learning methods

  • Community-based or co-op classes

There is no approval process for curriculum selection, which gives parents complete control over what and how they teach.

Testing and Assessment

Delaware does not require homeschool students to take state-mandated exams. However, families often choose to assess progress through optional tools.

Testing options for homeschoolers include:

• National standardized tests like SAT, ACT, PSAT, or AP exams (taken independently)

• Diagnostic tests from private providers to track academic growth

• Informal evaluations, such as quizzes, portfolios, or oral reviews

Although testing is not mandatory, keeping track of learning outcomes can be valuable, especially if your child plans to re-enter the school system or apply to college.

Graduation, Transcripts, and Diplomas in Delaware Homeschooling

In Delaware, homeschool families are responsible for setting their own graduation requirements and issuing diplomas. Since the state considers homeschoolers part of the nonpublic school system, there is no state-issued diploma or formal approval process. Parents must maintain academic records and prepare transcripts that reflect the student’s high school coursework and performance.

Key Points:

• Who issues the diploma: The parent or homeschool administrator creates and signs the diploma—Delaware’s Department of Education does not provide or validate it.

• Transcript essentials: Include subjects, grades, GPA (if used), credits earned, and graduation date. Tools and templates are available online to assist with formatting.

• College readiness: Most colleges accept homeschool transcripts, but students should also prepare for SAT/ACT exams and maintain detailed academic documentation.

Special Needs and Homeschooling Support in Delaware

Families homeschooling in Delaware can still access certain special education services through their local school districts, thanks to a key legislative change. In 2021, Delaware passed Senate Bill 106, which classifies homeschool students as private school students for the purpose of special education eligibility. This allows homeschoolers to request services typically provided to private school students.

Key Points:

• Access to special education: Homeschoolers may qualify for speech therapy, occupational therapy, and other services offered by public school districts.

• Requesting services: Families should contact their local district’s special education office to inquire about evaluation and support options.

• Parent responsibility: While access is allowed, the coordination and delivery of services can vary, and parents remain primarily responsible for daily instruction.

For more details on legal provisions and service coordination, you can review Senate Bill 106 and visit your local district’s special education office.

Immunization, Health, and Other Regulations

One advantage of homeschooling in Delaware is that it comes with minimal health-related regulatory requirements. Unlike public school students, homeschoolers are not required to submit immunization records to the Delaware Department of Education. However, it’s still important for families to stay informed about health best practices and medical documentation, especially if transitioning back into the public system in the future.

• Immunization exemptions: Homeschool students do not need to provide vaccination proof unless enrolling in a public or private school later.

• Health screenings: Routine school health checks (like vision or hearing tests) are not mandated for homeschoolers—parents may choose to arrange them independently.

• Returning to public school: Families planning to re-enroll their child in a public school should ensure they meet the standard immunization and health documentation requirements at that time.

Financial Considerations for Homeschooling in Delaware

While homeschooling in Delaware offers flexibility and freedom, it also means parents take on the full financial responsibility for their child’s education. The state does not provide public funding, reimbursements, or tax credits specifically for homeschool expenses. However, many families find ways to keep costs manageable through smart planning and access to free or low-cost resources.

• No state funding: Delaware does not offer financial aid or material support for homeschoolers. All curriculum, supplies, and enrichment activities must be covered by the family.

• Using education savings accounts (ESAs): While Delaware doesn’t have a state-sponsored ESA program, families may explore Coverdell Education Savings Accounts or other private education accounts that allow tax-free spending on qualifying educational expenses.

• Cost-saving strategies:

  • Use free online platforms like Khan Academy, Easy Peasy, and PBS LearningMedia

  • Borrow books and materials through public libraries

  • Join co-ops to split curriculum costs or share teaching responsibilities

  • Buy used curriculum through homeschool marketplaces or forums

Being strategic about purchases and tapping into community resources can make homeschooling in Delaware more affordable and sustainable in the long term.

Local Support and Homeschooling Communities in Delaware

Homeschooling in Delaware doesn’t mean going it alone. Across the state, families have access to active support groups, co-ops, and enrichment opportunities that offer both academic and social engagement. Whether you're seeking group classes, parent networking, or local field trip ideas, Delaware’s homeschool community is diverse and growing.

• Homeschool co-ops and networks:

  • Homeschool Delaware – Offers group classes, events, and curriculum help

  • REACH Homeschool Group – Based in northern Delaware, focused on Christian homeschool families

  • Delaware Inclusive Homeschool Group (DIHG) – Open to all educational approaches and backgrounds

• Local field trip ideas:

  • Brandywine Zoo – Small, family-friendly zoo in Wilmington

  • Winterthur Museum & Garden – Educational programs in history and art

  • Fort Delaware State Park – Historic re-enactments and tours

  • Delaware Museum of Nature and Science – STEM-focused exhibits for all ages

• Enrichment and extracurriculars:

  • YMCA programs, art classes, and STEM workshops

  • Music lessons, 4-H clubs, and scouts

  • Community theater, robotics teams, and coding camps

Joining a co-op or participating in group activities can enhance the homeschooling experience, offering both peer interaction for kids and support for parents.

Online Homeschooling Programs for Delaware Families

For families homeschooling in Delaware, online programs can offer structure, flexibility, and a full curriculum experience without needing to build everything from scratch. Below are three trusted and distinct options that serve different learning preferences and educational philosophies.

1. The School House Anywhere (TSHA)

The School House Anywhere offers a secular, comprehensive K–6 curriculum grounded in the American Emergent Curriculum (AEC). It is designed for homeschooling families, micro-schools, and education entrepreneurs who want an interconnected, developmentally aligned educational experience. 

The program includes a vast library of educational films, printable learning materials, and 24/7 live support. It blends scientific approaches to learning with the foundational principles of traditional American schooling, allowing parents and educators to personalize the experience while maintaining academic depth and structure.

• Built on the proven American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) for Pre-K to Grade 6

• Screen-free, child-first, and research-based learning

• Covers academics, life skills, civics, and character in one complete program

• Includes over 300 training videos, printable materials, and expert guidance

• Helps you stay compliant with homeschool laws.

2. Time4Learning

Time4Learning is an online, subscription-based curriculum for preschool through 12th grade. Designed specifically with homeschoolers in mind, it delivers lessons through interactive videos, animations, and printable worksheets. Core subjects include language arts, math, science, and social studies. 

The platform allows for flexible, self-paced learning and includes progress-tracking tools for parents. Note that Time4Learning is a curriculum provider—not a virtual school—so there are no live teachers; parents remain the primary educators.

3. Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool

Easy Peasy is a free, Christian-based online curriculum that covers preschool through high school. It offers complete daily lesson plans across a wide range of subjects, including Bible, math, language arts, science, history, music, and art. 

The program uses mostly free online resources and is built for independent learning. Influenced by Charlotte Mason principles, it includes techniques like narration, copywork, and picture studies. It is especially popular with families seeking structure, faith integration, and budget-friendly homeschooling.

Also read: Why Microschools Are the Next Big Education Trend?

How to Get Started with Homeschooling in Delaware?

Starting your homeschooling journey in Delaware is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to stay compliant with state laws. Here’s the Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Decide on your homeschool type Delaware offers two options:

• Single-family homeschool: Parent(s) educate their own child(ren) at home.

• Multi-family homeschool: Two or more families join together under a designated liaison responsible for reporting to the state.

2. Register your homeschool through EdAccessGo to EdAccess and create an account with the Delaware Department of Education. From there, you can set up a new nonpublic school (your homeschool) and choose the appropriate category.

3. Notify your child’s public school (if applicable)If your child is already enrolled in public school, you must register your homeschool and receive the official acknowledgment letter before withdrawing. Public schools may request this letter for recordkeeping.

The School House Anywhere’s Transparent Classroom makes it simple to stay organized. You can log attendance, track learning progress, and generate reports- all in one place. Strong recordkeeping not only keeps you compliant with Delaware laws but also helps you see your child’s growth and progress at a glance.

4. Choose your curriculumDelaware does not require a specific curriculum, so you can select one that fits your child’s learning style and goals. You’re free to use online programs, custom materials, or faith-based resources as long as instruction is “regular and thorough.”

5. Keep annual recordsYou’ll need to:

• Report annual enrollment between August 11 and September 30.

• Submit attendance between June 1 and July 31 via EdAccess.

6. Maintain your own documentationEven though it’s not required, keeping a portfolio with work samples, lesson plans, and progress reports is highly recommended, especially for future transitions or college applications.

With the right planning and support, homeschooling in Delaware can be a rewarding and enriching experience. Whether you’re seeking flexibility, values-based instruction, or a more personalized education model, Delaware gives parents the tools to take the lead in their child’s learning journey.

Conclusion

Homeschooling in Delaware gives families the chance to choose what and how their children learn. With simple registration, flexible rules, and no set curriculum, parents can plan an education that fits their child’s pace, interests, and needs. Whether you're teaching at home for academic focus, a calmer environment, or more individual attention, Delaware supports that choice.

Looking for a More Supportive Way to Homeschool?

The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers a hands-on, screen-free homeschool program for children in Pre-K through Grade 6, including those with ADHD, non-verbal communication, and sensory needs.

TSHA provides:

• Step-by-step guidance for reading, math, and daily routines

• A learning approach that supports focus, movement, and emotional needs

• Print-based materials rooted in real-world learning, not screen time

If you're ready to create a homeschool setup that meets your child where they are, explore TSHA and join a growing community of parents who are doing the same.

Faqs

1. Can I begin homeschooling in Delaware partway through the school year?

Yes, you can start at any time. Just make sure you register through the EdAccess portal before withdrawing your child from public school. Once you receive the acknowledgment letter, you can officially begin homeschooling and continue with your yearly reporting requirements.

2. Are homeschoolers in Delaware allowed to take individual public school classes or join sports teams?

Participation in public school classes or extracurriculars is up to each school district. Some districts may allow homeschoolers to join certain activities or classes, while others may not. It's best to reach out to your local school for their specific policy.

3. How does the state make sure families are actually teaching their kids at home?

Delaware relies on the annual enrollment and attendance reports submitted through EdAccess. There are no inspections or required curriculum approvals, but families are expected to provide regular and thorough instruction. Keeping records like lesson plans or work samples can help if questions ever arise.

4. Should my child take the GED even if we plan to issue a homeschool diploma?

A homeschool diploma is valid and accepted by many colleges and employers, especially when supported by a strong transcript and test scores. However, some families choose to take the GED as an extra credential, particularly if their child is applying to competitive programs or jobs that request it.

5. Can I adjust my child’s grade level based on their ability rather than age?

Yes, as a homeschooling parent in Delaware, you can set your child’s grade level based on their learning needs. This flexibility lets you move ahead in some subjects or take more time in others, as long as your instruction remains consistent and thorough.