All states, including Maryland, require some type of formal education for children of a certain age range, which is governed by state law. The laws don't differ too much and generally require children from early childhood through their teens to attend school full time, with some exceptions. While all states offer the option of taxpayer-funded public schooling, parents are free to choose religious, private, or home schooling options instead.
Even though most U.S. schools were private (typically provided by churches) prior to the 20th century, Massachusetts became the first state to pass a compulsory education law in 1852. This quickly spread throughout the country and became the norm in all U.S. states by 1918.
Overview of Maryland Law with Respect to Compulsory Education
Maryland law requires children between the ages of five and 16 to attend school, which may include homeschool or other non-public options. Families that decide to homeschool their children must follow the state's guidelines to ensure their children are receiving an adequate education. Specifically, any homeschool program must:
Parents who do not comply with Maryland's compulsory education laws may be subject to fines and even jail terms. See FindLaw's Compulsory Education section for additional articles.
| Code Section | Educ. 7-301 |
| Age at Which School Attendance is Required | Between 5 and 16 |
| Exceptions to Attendance Requirements | Receiving other regular, thorough instruction in studies usually taught in public schools to children of same age group; mental/emotional/physical condition which makes his instruction detrimental to his progress or whose presence presents danger of serious physical harm to others |
| Home School Provisions | Receiving otherwise regular, thorough instruction in studies usually taught in public schools to children of same age group |
| Penalties on Parents for Noncompliance | Guilty of misdemeanor; first conviction: subject to fine up to $50 and/or up to 10 days jail; subsequent conviction: fine of $100 and/or up to 30 days jail |
Note: State laws are constantly changing. While FindLaw makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of its state law content, you may also want to contact a Maryland education attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Research the Law
Maryland Compulsory Education Laws: Related Resources
