FREE Maryland Homeschool Portfolio Review Bundle

FREE Maryland Homeschool Portfolio Review Bundle

Quick Start Guide: What is a Maryland Homeschool Portfolio?

• Look through your work

• Add sticky notes or page tabs

• Review the law checklist

  
  

  ✔ Breathe — you got this!

Review Prep Tips

• Be confident — no one is grading your child; they just want to see that you’re actively homeschooling.

• Keep it simple: no need for long essays. Photos, worksheets, and quick notes are perfect.

• Group work by subject to make it easier for reviewers.

• Bring the law or checklist to the review if needed.

• Use tabs or sticky notes to mark each section.

Hey Mama,

I know this journey isn’t always easy but look at you, showing up anyway. Homeschooling doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. Your child is learning in ways that can’t always be measured on paper, and that matters.

This portfolio? It’s just a glimpse into all the care, creativity, and intention you pour into your days. You’re doing more than enough. Be proud of what you’re building.

With love and realness, Another homeschool mama who gets it!

In Maryland, parents have three main ways to legally homeschool, and each comes with different responsibilities, support levels, and potential costs. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

Portfolio Review Option (Free / Low Cost)

Supervised by your local school system

✅ Cost: Free (you pay only for your curriculum and supplies)✅ Supervision: Up to 3 portfolio reviews per year by your local school board✅ Requirements:

• Submit a Notice of Intent 15 days before you start homeschooling

• Maintain a portfolio of subjects typically taught in public school (English, math, science, social studies, art, music, health, P.E.)

• Meet with a school representative for reviews

📝 Best for: Parents who want full freedom to design their curriculum and don’t mind some oversight.

Church-Exempt Umbrella Schools

Supervised by a church-affiliated program

💵 Cost: ~$300 to $1,000+ per year✅ Support: May include transcript help, academic advice, field trips, and more✅ Supervision: No local school system reviews you’ll report directly to your umbrella

📝 Best for: Families who want more structure and support, or faith-based oversight.

3. State-Approved Nonpublic Umbrella Schools

Supervised by an independent private school registered with the state

💵 Cost: ~$500 to $2,000+ per year✅ Support: Often provides full transcripts, grading, curriculum guidance✅ Supervision: Direct reporting to the school, not the county

📝 Best for: Families looking for high-level oversight and official records like report cards.

💻 What About Online Private Schools (Like K12 or Laurel Springs)?

Online private schools offer structured, accredited programs you can do from home. They’re NOT free, but they do the heavy lifting for you.

✏️ K12 Private Academy (One of the most popular options)

• Pre-K: $3,995/year

• Grades K–5: $4,995/year

• Grades 6–8: $5,995/year

• Grades 9–12: $6,995/year

• Part-time courses: $900 each

Payment plans and sibling discounts are available. Learn more: K12PrivateAcademy.com

🏫 Other Accredited Online Schools:

• Pearson Online Academy

• Laurel Springs School

• Grand Canyon Private Academy ($7,000/year)

📝 Best for: Families who want a fully pre-planned, accredited curriculum and professional teacher support.

🔍 Not in Maryland?

Each state has its own laws. If you’re outside MD, check your state’s Department of Education website or visit HSLDA.org for legal homeschool guidelines in your area.

Which Should You Choose?

• If you want to stay more independent and don’t mind meeting with the school board twice a year: Portfolio Review may be perfect.

• If you’d prefer a more structured setup or want to skip county involvement: Umbrella Schools might be better.