The "Home Education Freedom Act" modifies existing laws regarding home education programs in New Hampshire by adding new definitions and removing certain notification and assessment requirements for parents. Key definitions added include "Commissioner," "Department," "Participating agency," and "Teacher," which clarify the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in home education. The bill also redefines home education to emphasize that it is an alternative to compulsory public school attendance, allowing parents greater flexibility in structuring their educational programs without the need to align with the public school calendar.

Additionally, the bill streamlines the notification process for parents starting home education programs. It eliminates the requirement for parents to notify the Commissioner of Education and instead requires notification only to the resident district superintendent under specific circumstances, such as participation in public school programs or withdrawal from public school. The annual evaluation process is also made less stringent, allowing parents to choose whether to conduct evaluations and providing multiple options for demonstrating educational progress. Overall, the bill aims to enhance parental freedom and reduce bureaucratic requirements in home education.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 193-A:1, 193-A:4, 193-A:5, 193-A:6
HB1268 text: 193-A:1, 193-A:4, 193-A:5, 193-A:6