The Charles Decision Foundation
In 1987, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court case Care and Protection of Charles established the basic legal framework for homeschooling in Massachusetts. This landmark decision balanced parents’ constitutional right to homeschool with the state’s interest in ensuring adequate education for all children.
Key Requirements Established by Charles
1. Parental Right to Homeschool
– Parents have a constitutional right to homeschool their children
– This right must be balanced with the state’s interest in education
– Local school districts cannot prevent homeschooling but can enforce reasonable oversight
2. Mandatory Notice and Approval
– Parents must notify their local school district of their intent to homeschool
– Must submit a home education plan for approval before beginning
– The district must review and respond to the plan promptly
3. Required Elements of Education Plan
– Subjects to be taught (must include all required subjects)
– Qualifications of the parents/teachers
– Teaching materials and methods to be used
– Number of teaching hours (similar to public school hours)
– Evaluation method to be used
4. Curriculum Requirements
Must cover these mandatory subjects:
– Reading
– Writing
– English Language and Grammar
– Geography
– Arithmetic
– United States History and Constitution
– Duties of Citizenship
– Health (including CPR)
– Physical Education
– Good Behavior
– Science
– Mathematics
5. Teacher Qualifications
Parents don’t need teaching certificates or college degrees. However, they must demonstrate competency to teach. This can be shown through:
– College degree
– Life experience
– Teaching approach and materials
– Any other relevant background
6. Evaluation Methods
Districts may require one or more of:
– Standardized test results
– Progress report with work samples
– Independent evaluation by a qualified person
– Any other method agreed upon by both parties
Modern Implementation
District Oversight
– Districts must be “reasonable” in their requirements
– Cannot impose more burdensome requirements than necessary
– Must act in good faith when reviewing plans
– Cannot reject plans arbitrarily
Parent Rights
– Right to choose curriculum and teaching methods
– Can challenge unreasonable district requirements
– May negotiate evaluation methods
– Can seek support from homeschool advocacy groups
Common Practices
– Annual submission of education plans
– Periodic progress reports (often quarterly)
– Annual assessment or evaluation
– Regular communication with the district
Important Considerations
Documentation
– Keep copies of all submitted plans
– Document all communication with the district
– Maintain records of educational progress
– Save samples of student work
Legal Protection
– Join a homeschool legal defense association
– Know your rights under the Charles decision
– Understand district policies and procedures
– Keep abreast of any legal changes
Resources
– HSLDA (Home School Legal Defense Association)
– Massachusetts Home Learning Association
– Local homeschool support groups
– District homeschool coordinators
For any other questions you may have about the legality of homeschooling, please feel free to contact Elite Prep Academy New England.
