Families who prefer to homeschool sometimes wonder “Is it legal to homeschool in New Jersey?”  The answer is an absolute, YES!  State laws regulating homeschooling and homeschoolers are minimal and straight-forward.  New Jersey homeschoolers have the freedom and flexibility to choose what, how, where, and when to teach their child(ren).  Compulsory education law in New Jersey states that every child between 6 and 16 years of age attends school (private or public) or receives “equivalent instruction elsewhere than at school.”

Although not required by law, if your child is already enrolled in Paterson Public School, you must notify the Central Registration Department when choosing to homeschool. This notification can prevent any truancy complications.

The Central Registration Department will provide the parent with the notice of intent to homeschool and will officially withdraw him/her from school (view sample letter).