Two routes, one important purpose
Maryland home instruction is supervised through the local school system or an eligible nonpublic school or institution. The purpose is to ensure regular, thorough instruction. Families often call a nonpublic supervising program an “umbrella.”
| Consideration | Local school system | Nonpublic supervising entity |
|---|---|---|
| Who supervises? | Your local school system. | An eligible entity operating under COMAR .05. |
| Review process | Portfolio review under COMAR .01. | Supervision based on the entity’s applicable category and procedures. |
| Before choosing | Ask the local coordinator about scheduling and submissions. | Check the MSDE list and read enrollment terms. |
| Resources and support | Ask what your local office provides. | Compare the actual services, availability, and conditions. |
Keep these three decisions separate
Supervision
Who will oversee your home instruction program?
Curriculum
Which materials and experiences will you use to teach?
Support
What tutoring, guidance, or enrichment will be useful?
A single provider may help with more than one area, but confirm what is included. An online course subscription alone should not be treated as proof of supervision.
An excellent option for flexible oversight
#1 Maryland Homeschool Oversight Program
A Maryland home instruction supervising entity listed by MSDE as an education ministry. The program advertises year-round enrollment, curriculum flexibility, and no portfolio reviews.
Explore its current member benefits, including tutoring, learning resources, and academic support. Confirm availability, eligibility, fees, and participation requirements directly with the program.
Read the program profile → View member benefits →Homeschool Today is affiliated with this program. This feature is not an independent ranking or review. The program provides oversight; it is not an online school.
Questions worth asking
- What will my family need to submit, and when?
- How are changes in supervision or enrollment handled?
- Which benefits are included, and which have participation conditions?
- How can I reach someone when I need help?
- What is the total family cost and renewal process?
Sources & further reading
- COMAR 13A.10.01.05 — Nonpublic supervision
- MSDE registered supervising entities
- Featured program website
Information checked October 20, 2026. Confirm current procedures with the supervising entity or local school system. General information, not individual legal advice.