Maryland Microschool Regulations: Complete 2026 Guide for Founders

Starting a microschool in Maryland is achievable—but it requires understanding the state's unique legal landscape. Unlike Arizona or Florida, Maryland sits in the middle of the regulatory spectrum: more flexible than northeastern states, more structured than wide-open school choice regions. The good news? Teachers don't need state certification to launch a private microschool in Maryland. The better news? Maryland has a thriving homeschool community of 40,000+ families and a growing microschool ecosystem ready to support your vision.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about starting a microschool in Maryland, from regulatory pathways to financial planning to real examples of thriving microschools already operating in the state.

I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Maryland's Regulatory Environment: The Middle Ground

Maryland offers educators something many states don't: a clear choice between two distinct legal pathways to launch a learning community. You can pursue traditional private school certification through the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), or you can start lean with a homeschool cooperative and scale up later. This flexibility has created a vibrant alternative education scene.

Here's what the numbers tell us:

The pandemic fundamentally shifted Maryland's education landscape. Between June and November 2020, more than 13,000 students transitioned from pandemic school-at-home to officially homeschooled. That wasn't temporary. Today, 40,000+ Maryland students are homeschooled, representing 4.65% of the K-12 population—a dramatic shift from the pre-pandemic 2.6%. This sustained growth has created unprecedented demand for microschools and alternative learning models.

The private school landscape is equally robust. Maryland operates 680+ private schools serving 143,120 students, and within that ecosystem, 75 Montessori schools specifically approved by MSDE serve 5,905 students. The average microschool opportunity is underserved—most parents seeking small, personalized learning environments have limited options.

Your Two Pathways to Launch

Option 1: Private School Certification Path

• Timeline: 4-8 weeks approval (9-12 months total startup)
• Cost: $1,000-$3,000 legal/regulatory (plus facility and operations)
• Structure: Hire professional educators, serve unrelated families, issue diplomas
• Market fit: Scaling to 15-25 students, long-term institutional growth
• Example: Montessori schools serving 20-80 students with teacher teams

Option 2: Homeschool Cooperative Path

• Timeline: 15 days notification (2-3 months total startup)
• Cost: Essentially free (no filing fees)
• Structure: Parents teach their own children, shared enrichment activities
• Market fit: Pilot models, testing your educational philosophy with 6-12 committed families
• Example: Multiple families pooling resources for music, art, PE instruction

The choice isn't permanent. Many successful Maryland microschools started as cooperatives, tested their model with real families, then transitioned to private school certification for scale.

At-a-Glance Key Facts

• 40,000+ homeschooled students (4.65% of K-12 population) - Maryland Homeschool Association
• 75 Montessori schools serving 5,905 students - Private School Review
• 680+ private schools operating in Maryland with 143,120 students - Private School Universe Survey, National Center for Education Statistics
• No active ESA/voucher program (funding limited to low-income BOOST voucher; universal ESA proposals defeated)
• Teacher certification NOT required for private pay schools (bachelor's degree required for core subjects)
• 3 Acton Academy locations in Maryland (Annapolis, Columbia, Bowie) serving 100+ students
• 1 Wildflower Network school (Indigo Montessori in Baltimore) part of national 60+ school network

II. UNDERSTANDING YOUR LEGAL OPTIONS

Option 1: Private School Certification Path

When This Applies

You choose the private school path when you want to:

• Hire professional educators (not parents) as instructors
• Serve multiple unrelated families at a fee
• Issue formal transcripts and diplomas
• Scale beyond 12-15 students sustainably
• Access accreditation pathways (AIMS, MSA-CESS, NAIS)

The Legal Foundation

"A noncollegiate educational institution may not operate in Maryland without a certificate of approval from the State Board, which shall issue a certificate if it finds that the facilities, conditions of entrance and scholarship, and educational qualifications and standards are adequate and appropriate." - U.S. Department of Education, Maryland Education Code § 2-206

This single requirement—the Certificate of Approval—is your legal foundation. Get it, and you're operating legally. Without it, you're potentially violating Maryland Education Code § 2-206.

Three Categories of Private Schools in Maryland

1. Private Pay Schools (COMAR 13A.09.09) Non-publicly funded schools that charge tuition. This is the path most microschool founders take.

2. Publicly Funded Private Schools (COMAR 13A.09.10) Private schools receiving public funding (rare, typically special education placements). Teachers must hold state certification.

3. Church-Exempt Schools Schools operated by bona fide religious organizations that may choose registration instead of full approval (requirements vary).

For microschools, COMAR 13A.09.09 (private pay schools) is your regulatory home.

Key Advantages of the Private School Path

• Legal clarity: MSDE provides explicit guidance and a defined approval process
• Enrollment flexibility: Can accept students from any family background
• Professional staffing: Hire educated instructors without parent involvement requirement
• Credibility: Formal approval enhances community trust and college admissions
• Scalability: Path to accreditation and growth beyond 25 students
• Flexibility on methodology: Montessori, classical, project-based, Waldorf—all approved as long as you meet standards

Key Requirements Preview

The MSDE will evaluate whether your school has:

• Adequate facilities (fire codes, accessibility, zoning compliance)
• Appropriate educational conditions (entrance requirements, grading systems)
• Qualified staff (bachelor's degrees for core subject teachers)
• Comprehensive curriculum (English, math, science, social studies minimum)
• Student record systems (attendance tracking, assessment documentation)

We'll dive into each of these in Section III.

Option 2: Homeschool Cooperative Path

When This Applies

You choose the homeschool cooperative path when you want to:

• Start with a small group of committed families (3-8 ideal)
• Keep startup costs minimal (no facility costs initially)
• Test your educational philosophy before major investment
• Maintain parent control over instruction
• Start in 2-3 months instead of 9-12 months
• Keep enrollment small (8-15 students max sustainable)

The Legal Foundation

Homeschooling in Maryland is constitutionally protected. Kids don't need to attend public school if they're receiving "regular, thorough instruction during the school year in studies usually taught in public schools to children of the same age." That's the legal language in Maryland Education Code § 7-301.

A homeschool cooperative is an organized group of families managing that instruction together—with parents as primary instructors.

Three Supervision Options in Maryland

Maryland law requires homeschoolers to be supervised by an approved entity. You have three choices:

1. Portfolio Option (Local School System Supervision) Your local school superintendent oversees your child's education through portfolio reviews.

• Parents maintain learning materials, work samples, tests, worksheets
• Superintendent may review portfolio up to 3 times annually
• No formal curriculum required, but must cover all 8 mandatory subjects
• Most flexible option for cooperatives

2. Church Umbrella School Option A bona fide religious organization supervises instruction, either the church's own program or families learning at home.

• May have more flexible requirements than public school oversight
• Common in religious communities

3. Approved Nonpublic School Supervision A state-approved private school (with MSDE Certificate of Approval) assigns a supervising teacher.

• Highest structure and oversight
• Bridges homeschool flexibility with school-like structure
• Useful hybrid model for cooperatives scaling toward private school

Source: Maryland COMAR 13A.10.01.01 and HSLDA Maryland - How to Comply with Maryland's Homeschool Law

The Critical Legal Boundary for Cooperatives

Here's the rule that determines whether your cooperative stays legal or crosses into private school territory:

"If an organized group of unrelated students is regularly taught by someone who isn't their parent or guardian, this could be considered an unapproved nonpublic school by law." - Coalition for Responsible Home Education

What this means in practice:

• ✅ Legal: Parents in a cooperative teaching enrichment classes (art, music, PE) to the whole group 1-2 times weekly
• ✅ Legal: Families combining resources for field trips, shared materials, group discussions
• ❌ Not legal: Hiring a full-time non-parent teacher to deliver core curriculum daily to unrelated students
• ❌ Not legal: Operating with a majority of instruction from non-parent educators

Safe practice: Parents remain responsible for their own children's primary instruction, even if supplementing with shared resources.

Key Advantages of the Homeschool Cooperative Path

• Minimal startup cost (basically free—no filing fees)
• Rapid launch (2-3 months vs. 9-12 months)
• Regulatory simplicity (notification only, not approval)
• Curriculum flexibility (no required textbooks or specific materials)
• No facility requirements (meet in homes, parks, community spaces)
• Parent control (families maintain decision-making authority)
• Testing ground (validate your model before major investment)

Key Requirements Preview

• Home Instruction Notification: File form with local superintendent at least 15 days before starting
• 8 Mandatory subjects: English, math, science, social studies, art, music, health, PE
• Portfolio maintenance: Keep work samples demonstrating progress in all subjects
• Annual portfolio review: Local superintendent or umbrella school reviews materials (up to 3 times/year)
• Supervision entity: Must be approved by Maryland State Board of Education

The Hybrid Approach: Start as Cooperative, Scale to Private School

Here's the path many successful Maryland microschools take:

Year 1: Homeschool Cooperative Phase

• Launch with 6-10 committed founding families
• Test your educational philosophy with real students
• Build community and proof of concept
• Minimal investment (0-6 months, <$2,000)
• Validate demand before major capital commitment

Year 2-3: Transition to Private School

• Filing for MSDE Certificate of Approval (4-8 weeks)
• Upgrade to commercial facility (fire codes, accessibility)
• Begin hiring non-parent educators to scale
• Establish formal governance and policies
• Total transition timeline: 6-12 months

Why this works:

• De-risks your educational model (you know it works before major investment)
• Builds community organically (founding families become your advocates)
• Reduces startup stress (you can focus on pedagogy, not just compliance)
• Provides natural enrollment growth (cooperative members are Year 1 students)

Critical caution: During the cooperative phase, ensure you stay within legal boundaries. If you're hiring non-parent teachers for core instruction, you've crossed into private school territory and need MSDE approval.

III. PRIVATE SCHOOL CERTIFICATION PATHWAY

Certificate of Approval: The Core Requirement

Where to Apply

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) oversees all nonpublic school approvals through a centralized portal:

Maryland OneStop Portal - Submit applications and check status here

MSDE Nonpublic School Approval Branch - General information and guidance

Timeline and Processing

• Processing time: 4-8 weeks typical from complete submission
• Total startup timeline: 9-12 months (including planning, facility preparation, legal formation)
• Annual renewal: Certificate must be renewed each year
• Display requirement: School must display Certificate of Approval in a "conspicuous place" on school premises

What MSDE Evaluates

The State Board issues a Certificate of Approval only if it finds:

1. Facilities are adequate and appropriate

• Fire codes and building codes met
• Accessibility standards (ADA) met
• Proper zoning for educational use
• Adequate square footage for enrollment

1. Conditions of entrance and scholarship are adequate and appropriate

• Clear admission requirements
• Fair enrollment policies
• Non-discrimination certification (required by law)

1. Educational qualifications and standards are adequate and appropriate

• Teachers meet qualification requirements
• Curriculum covers mandatory subjects
• Assessment and grading systems in place
• Student record-keeping established

Source: U.S. Department of Education - Maryland State Regulation

Teacher Qualification Requirements

For Private Pay Schools (Most Microschools)

Here's the part that excites many microschool founders: Maryland doesn't require state teacher certification for private pay schools.

Teachers instructing core subjects (English, mathematics, science, social studies) must have:

• Bachelor's degree with minimum 120 semester hours, OR
• Bachelor's degree equivalent (verified by independent agency)

That's it. No Maryland state teaching license required. No passing PRAXIS exams. No state approval process.

This opens the door to:

• Career changers with subject expertise (programmer teaching computer science, engineer teaching design)
• Experienced homeschool educators without formal teaching credentials
• International educators with advanced degrees from recognized universities
• Professionals bringing real-world expertise to classroom instruction

Source: U.S. Department of Education - Maryland State Regulation

For Publicly Funded Private Schools

If your private school receives any public funding (rare for microschools), teachers must hold standard public school certificates under Maryland regulations (COMAR 13A.12.01 and COMAR 13A.12.02). This is essentially the path of the public sector.

Documentation You'll Need

For each teacher, prepare:

• Bachelor's degree transcripts (official copies)
• Resume with educational background and professional experience
• Professional references (ideally from education field)
• Documentation of background check completion (Maryland requirement)

Curriculum and Instructional Standards

Required Subject Areas

Private schools must provide instruction in:

• English (language arts, literature, composition)
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies (history, geography, civics)

These four are core requirements. Beyond that, schools often include art, music, health, and physical education.

Curriculum Flexibility

Here's where Maryland's approach differs from heavily regulated states: the state doesn't mandate specific curriculum or textbooks. The law states that "the specific curriculum must be suited to the education level of the students and aligned with the diplomas or certificates the school plans to issue."

This means:

• ✅ Montessori curriculum fully permitted
• ✅ Classical education with Great Books acceptable
• ✅ Project-based learning with integrated subjects workable
• ✅ Waldorf methods consistent with requirements
• ✅ Competency-based progression allowed if assessed fairly

Testing requirements: Schools regulated by COMAR 13A.09.09 (private pay schools) are NOT required to participate in state testing, unlike publicly funded schools. You can use your own assessments, third-party standardized tests, or portfolio evaluation—your choice.

Source: U.S. Department of Education - Maryland State Regulation

Learning Philosophy Freedom

The MSDE cares about whether your educational approach leads to students meeting standards—not which methodology you use. This is fundamentally different from states that mandate specific approaches.

Document your educational philosophy clearly:

• Why you chose your approach (pedagogical rationale)
• How it aligns with your curriculum
• What evidence demonstrates student learning
• How you assess progress beyond traditional tests

Facility Requirements

Facilities are often the biggest compliance hurdle for microschools. Let's break down what MSDE requires.

Fire Safety and Building Codes

Maryland adopts the State Fire Prevention Code based on NFPA 101 Life Safety Code (2015 Edition). This isn't optional—it's mandatory for all educational facilities.

Fire Safety Requirements:

• Annual state-issued licenses to operate
• Use and occupancy permits from local fire marshal
• Fire evacuation drill requirements:
• Without automatic sprinklers: 8 drills minimum (3 in first 4 months)
• With automatic sprinklers: 5 drills minimum (2 in first 4 months)
• Fire-rated doors, properly marked exits, evacuation signs
• No fresh-cut/live trees in educational facilities

Annual Inspection Process:

• Local fire marshal conducts annual building inspection
• Checks fire alarms, emergency exits, suppression systems
• Verifies evacuation plan posted and accessible
• Issues pass/fail determination

Source: Maryland Division of Labor and Industry - Fire Codes

Zoning and Land Use Compliance

Before signing a lease, verify with local zoning department:

• Does your space allow educational use? (Residential zones often don't without variance)
• Conditional use permit required? (Some jurisdictions require special permission)
• Adequate parking? (Check local requirements for your expected enrollment)
• Accessibility standards met? (ADA compliance required)

Practical facility strategies:

• Church partnerships: Often already zoned/permitted for educational use, sometimes offer below-market rent ($300-$1,000/month)
• Commercial spaces: Mixed-use zoning in many counties permits educational use
• Existing childcare facilities: Pre-schools/daycare facilities with proper permits may have unused capacity

Recommendation for Year 1: Church partnerships offer the fastest path to facility approval while minimizing costs. Many churches welcome educational programs and handle fire compliance.

Student Records and Attendance

Required Documentation

Your school must maintain cumulative student records including:

• Student's full name, birth date, home address
• Enrollment and withdrawal dates
• Current grade level
• Performance information (grades, test scores, assessments)
• Number of days in attendance each school year

Source: The Maryland People's Law Library - Private Schools

Attendance Reporting

Maryland law requires swift action on chronic absenteeism:

"The principal or head teacher of a private school is required to report immediately a student's absence or irregular attendance without lawful excuse to the county superintendent."

What triggers reporting:

• Unauthorized absences exceeding state limits
• Absence without valid excuse
• Pattern of chronic absenteeism

Compulsory attendance ages: 5-17 years old under Maryland Education Code § 7-301

Best practice: Document daily attendance clearly, maintain written communications with families about patterns, and address early before triggering state reporting.

Non-Discrimination and Child Protection

Non-Discrimination Certification

Before issuing a Certificate of Approval, the State Board requires:

"An approved nonpublic school must certify to the Maryland Department of Education that it does not practice discrimination based upon race, color, or national origin."

You'll file a non-discrimination statement with your application. Keep your enrollment policies aligned with this commitment (no hidden barriers to enrollment for any protected group).

Child Abuse Reporting

"Staff must report suspected child abuse under Maryland law."

Requirements:

• All staff trained as mandatory reporters
• Clear reporting protocols established
• Documentation procedures in place
• No retaliation policies for reporters

Recommended: Conduct annual mandatory reporter training for all team members, even if not legally required.

Special Education and Student Services

Special Education Services

Here's important news: "Private schools are not required to provide special education services, though public school districts remain responsible if they place a student with disabilities there."

This means you can choose:

• To serve students with IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) or 504 plans if your setting allows
• To refer students needing specialized services to public districts
• To hire support staff (special ed teachers, aides, speech therapists) if equipped to do so
• To serve only students without identified disabilities

Practical approach for most microschools: Accept diverse learners but clarify in your handbook what services you can provide. Many families love microschools precisely because they're small enough to support learning differences without formal special ed infrastructure.

Immunization Requirements

Maryland's immunization laws apply to both public AND private schools—no exceptions.

"The school must have proof of immunizations before allowing a student to begin school, and if evidence of the required vaccines is not provided, the student will be excluded from school."

Required vaccinations (varies by grade):

• DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
• Polio
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Hepatitis B
• Varicella (Chickenpox)
• Meningococcal (grades 7-12)
• Tdap booster (grade 7)

Exemptions available:

• Medical exemption (documented by licensed physician)
• Religious exemption (parental statement of sincere religious objection)

Source: Maryland Department of Health - Back to School Immunization Requirements

IV. HOMESCHOOL COOPERATIVE PATHWAY

Notification and Registration Process

Home Instruction Notification Form

You don't apply for approval; you simply notify your local school superintendent.

Timeline: "Submit to local school superintendent at least 15 days before starting a home instruction program"

Key details:

• No fee (unlike private school certification, completely free)
• Annual renewal required before each school year
• Contact: Each of Maryland's 23 counties + Baltimore City has a Home Instruction Coordinator
• Format: Notification form filed with specific information (student name, date of birth, supervision option)

Source: Maryland COMAR 13A.10.01.01 and The Maryland People's Law Library - Home Schooling

Choosing Your Supervision Option

When you file your notification, you'll specify which supervision method you're using. Let's detail each:

Portfolio Option (Local School System Supervision)

Parents maintain a portfolio demonstrating "regular, thorough instruction" in all 8 mandatory subjects.

• Local superintendent reviews portfolio up to 3 times annually (usually at semester end)
• No required curriculum; you choose materials
• Flexible pacing and teaching methods
• Reviews examine work samples, tests, creative materials, evidence of instruction
• If instruction deemed inadequate: parents have 30 days to resolve issues or must enroll in accredited school

Best for: Families comfortable with flexibility and self-directed learning

Church Umbrella School Option

A bona fide religious organization directly supervises instruction, either through its own school or families learning at home.

• May have more flexible requirements than portfolio option
• Church provides accountability framework
• Often community-based and supportive
• Varies widely by church program

Best for: Religiously-oriented families, community-based learning

Approved Nonpublic School Supervision

A state-approved nonpublic school (with MSDE Certificate) assigns a supervising teacher.

• Hybrid model combining homeschool flexibility with school oversight
• School assigns supervising teacher to monitor progress
• Must meet nonpublic school standards
• More structured than other options but maintains home-based learning

Best for: Families wanting professional oversight, transitioning toward private school model

Source: HSLDA Maryland - How to Comply with Maryland's Homeschool Law

Curriculum Requirements

Eight Mandatory Subjects

Home instruction must provide "regular, thorough instruction in the studies usually taught in public schools" including:

• English (language arts, literature, writing, communication)
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies (history, geography, civics)
• Art
• Music
• Health (nutrition, disease, safety, human development)
• Physical Education (movement, fitness, sports)

These aren't optional—all eight must appear in your instructional plan and portfolio.

Curriculum Flexibility

Here's the freedom part: "Neither the local school system nor the Maryland State Department of Education will provide a required curriculum for use in home instruction. It is the parent's/guardian's responsibility to select curriculum and instructional materials."

This means:

• ✅ No standardized testing required (use your own assessments)
• ✅ No mandated textbooks or programs
• ✅ No required instructional hours per subject
• ✅ Freedom to choose learning philosophy and pacing
• ✅ Can use online programs, classical materials, unit studies, any approach

The standard is "regular, thorough instruction"—not a specific curriculum format.

Portfolio Maintenance

What to Include

Parents maintaining portfolios should keep materials demonstrating instruction in all 8 subjects:

• Instructional materials (textbooks, workbooks, lesson plans)
• Reading materials used for instruction
• Student work samples (essays, math problems, lab reports)
• Worksheets and workbooks (completed)
• Creative materials (art projects, music compositions)
• Tests and quizzes (with scores)
• Project documentation (photos, descriptions)

You don't need to save everything—just enough to demonstrate "regular, thorough instruction" if reviewed.

Source: Maryland COMAR 13A.10.01.01

Review Process and Preparation

Frequency: Local school systems may conduct up to three portfolio reviews annually

Format: Usually scheduled reviews (not surprise home visits), conducted in person or remotely

Standard: Demonstration of "regular, thorough instruction" across all subjects with evidence of student learning

Practical tips:

• Organize materials by subject area
• Create table of contents/index
• Include narrative describing your educational approach
• Show progression of skills over time
• Keep student available for discussion (if requested)
• Save all documentation—don't discard samples

Cooperative Legal Boundaries: The Critical Zone

This is where homeschool cooperatives often encounter legal gray areas. Let's be precise about what's safe and what crosses into private school territory.

Parent-as-Primary-Instructor Requirement

The fundamental rule: "If an organized group of unrelated students is regularly taught by someone who isn't their parent or guardian, this could be considered an unapproved nonpublic school by law."

What this means:

• Parents must remain the primary instructors for their own children
• Non-parent educators can supplement, but not replace, parent instruction
• The emphasis is on "regularly taught" (daily/weekly instruction) vs. occasional enrichment

Permitted Shared Activities

Within a homeschool cooperative, these activities are safe:

✅ Weekly Enrichment Classes

• Parent or outside instructor teaching art, music, PE to the whole cooperative group
• 1-2 hours per week in a single subject
• Parents remain responsible for core instruction at home

✅ Field Trips & Group Learning

• Shared educational experiences (museum visits, nature study, guest speakers)
• Discussions and group projects
• Community learning outside the home

✅ Resource Sharing

• Curriculum materials, equipment, books passed between families
• Shared subscriptions to online programs
• Group purchases of textbooks
• Parent study groups for coordinating instruction

✅ Administrative Cooperation

• Shared portfolio management tools
• Group communication about curriculum
• Coordinated schedule planning

Red Flags: When You've Crossed Into Private School Territory

These patterns trigger private school requirements:

❌ Hiring professional non-parent teachers for core subjects (daily math, science, English instruction)

❌ Structured daily curriculum primarily delivered by non-parents

❌ Enrollment of students whose parents aren't actively participating in instruction

❌ Issuing formal transcripts or diplomas (implies school, not cooperative)

❌ Advertising as a "school" rather than "cooperative"

❌ Fixed daily schedule requiring parents to drop students off like school

❌ One facility operation during school hours with staff managing student day

Bottom line: If you're operating as a school (with the infrastructure, staffing, and schedule of a school), you need school approval. If you're parents working together to educate their own children with shared resources, you're a cooperative.

Record Keeping Best Practices

Even though not legally required, documentation protects you:

Attendance Log

• Record school days attended (even though not mandated)
• Useful for proving "regular instruction" if questioned
• Shows engagement and consistency to reviewers

Work Samples

• Keep representative samples from each subject each quarter
• Don't save everything—5-10 pieces per subject per year
• Include dates and subject area on materials

Portfolio Index

• Create a table of contents showing what's included
• Organize chronologically or by subject
• Makes reviews much easier for superintendent

Field Trips & Enrichment

• Document special learning experiences
• Include photos, descriptions, student reflections
• Shows breadth beyond standard academic subjects

Curriculum Materials

• Save receipts/proof of curriculum purchases
• Keep resource lists (books read, websites used)
• Document instructional approach

Financial Records

• Educational expenses may be tax-deductible
• Keep receipts for supplies, materials, classes
• Helpful for year-end tax preparation

Transitioning from Cooperative to Private School

This is where many successful Maryland microschools evolve. The transition isn't complicated, but it requires planning.

When to transition:

• Enrollment grows beyond 12-15 families (unwieldy for cooperative management)
• Desire to hire non-parent educators to expand offerings
• Families requesting formal diplomas/transcripts
• Interest in accreditation or formal credentialing
• Building multi-age, multi-grade community

Transition timeline:

• Month 1-2: Form nonprofit corporation (if not already done)
• Month 3-4: Secure facility with fire code compliance
• Month 5-6: Obtain insurance and permits
• Month 7-8: Complete MSDE Certificate application
• Month 9-10: Await approval (4-8 weeks processing)
• Month 11-12: Launch as formal private school

Communication with families:

• Be transparent about transition plans early
• Explain new structure and benefits (accreditation pathway, formal credentials)
• Address tuition changes (cooperatives are typically free/minimal fees; private schools charge tuition)
• Provide transition timeline
• Offer option for families to continue homeschooling or move with the school

V. BUSINESS FORMATION & FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS

Business Structure Options

If pursuing private school certification, you'll need a business structure. For homeschool cooperatives, this is optional (though nonprofit structure provides liability protection).

Nonprofit Corporation Formation (Recommended for Private Schools)

Maryland offers three nonprofit options:

1. Religious Corporation - For faith-based organizations 2. Tax-Exempt Nonstock Corporation - Recommended for schools planning 501(c)(3) status 3. Standard Nonstock Corporation - General nonprofit alternative

Filing Fees for Tax-Exempt Nonstock Corporation (Most Common):

• Recording fee: $100
• Organization and capitalization fee: $20
• Not-For-Profit Development Center Fund fee: $50
• Certified copies: $22
• Expedite option: $70
• Total: $262

Source: Donor Box - Start a Nonprofit in Maryland and Harbor Compliance - Maryland Nonprofit Guide

Processing timeline: 2-4 weeks from filing

Why Nonprofit vs. For-Profit LLC?

Nonprofit advantages:

• 501(c)(3) tax exemption (federal and state)
• Tax-deductible donor contributions
• Foundation grants eligibility
• Stronger community trust and perception
• Reduced property tax burden (many states)

For-Profit LLC advantages:

• Founder can distribute profits personally
• Simpler startup and ongoing requirements
• More flexibility in compensation

For microschools: Nonprofit is the standard. Education-focused organizations naturally fit the nonprofit model, and the tax benefits are substantial. Most families donate more readily to nonprofits.

For-Profit LLC Option (If Applicable)

If your founder intends personal income generation:

• File with Maryland Business Express
• No 501(c)(3) application needed
• Limited grant access, less favorable public perception
• May face skepticism from families ("Is this about profit?")

501(c)(3) Tax Exemption Process

Federal Tax Exemption (IRS)

Once your nonprofit corporation is incorporated, apply for federal tax exemption from the IRS.

Two application options:

Form 1023-EZ (Streamlined)

• Eligible if: <$50,000 projected annual receipts AND <$250,000 assets
• User fee: $275
• Processing time: 2-8 weeks
• Simplified documentation
• Recommended for most startup microschools

Form 1023 (Full Application)

• For organizations expecting $50,000+ annual receipts
• User fee: $600
• Processing time: 2-8 months
• Comprehensive documentation
• Required if exceeding 1023-EZ thresholds

Source: IRS Form 1023 and 1023-EZ Information

Maryland State Tax Exemption

After receiving IRS approval, apply for Maryland tax exemption:

Required documentation:

• IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter (approval letter)
• Articles of Incorporation (proof of nonprofit status)
• Bylaws (governance structure)

Submit to: Maryland Comptroller - Nonprofits Section

Processing time: 4-8 weeks after IRS approval

Benefit: Sales and use tax exemption for educational materials and supplies

Insurance Requirements

Insurance isn't optional—it's essential for protecting your school and legally required in most jurisdictions.

Mandatory Coverage

Workers' Compensation Insurance

• Required: Yes, for any school with employees
• Mandate: Maryland Workers' Compensation Act
• Typical cost: $500-$1,500 annually (varies with payroll)
• Coverage: Medical expenses and wage replacement for injured employees

Recommended Coverage

General Liability Insurance

• Purpose: Protects against negligence claims, student injuries, property damage
• Typical coverage: $1-2 million per occurrence
• Annual cost: $1,500-$3,500 for microschools (5-20 students)
• Importance: High (most critical policy)

Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions)

• Purpose: Protects against educational malpractice claims, discrimination allegations, wrongful termination
• Annual cost: $500-$1,500
• Importance: Recommended, especially for curriculum-heavy schools

Property Insurance (if applicable)

• Purpose: Protects school-owned equipment, materials, facility improvements
• Annual cost: $500-$2,000
• Importance: Depends on assets owned vs. rented

Umbrella Coverage

• Purpose: Additional liability coverage beyond general liability limits
• Annual cost: $300-$700
• Importance: Recommended if assets exist to protect

Source: D.H. Lloyd Maryland School Insurance

Total Annual Insurance Budget

• Minimum (workers comp + general liability): $2,000-$5,000
• Recommended (above + professional liability): $3,000-$7,000
• Comprehensive (all options): $4,000-$9,000

Varies by: student enrollment, employee count, facility size, activities offered

Additional Licensing and Permits

Local Business Licenses

County-specific requirements: Each county in Maryland has different requirements. Contact your County's Circuit Court Clerk for specifics.

Example - Montgomery County: Private schools serving 5+ students or with more than one instructor require a private school license

How to access: Maryland Business Express

Fire Code Permits

Requirement: All businesses including schools need fire permits

Process:

• Contact Office of the Fire Marshal in your county
• Schedule inspection of facility
• Address any code violations
• Receive permit upon compliance

Annual renewal: Typically required

Source: Maryland Division of Labor and Industry - Fire Codes

Zoning Permits and Use Variances

When required: When leasing or purchasing property for school use

Process:

1. Check local zoning ordinances (county/municipality specific)
2. Verify educational use is permitted in your zone
3. Request conditional use permit if needed (residential zones often require)
4. County planning and zoning department must approve

Timeline: 4-8 weeks typical

Recommendation: Before signing lease, verify zoning approval with local planning department.

VI. ACCREDITATION OPTIONS

The Certification vs. Accreditation Distinction

Here's an important distinction that confuses many school founders:

"Accreditation has no requirements, while registration/certification is mandatory."

Mandatory Requirements (to operate legally):

• MSDE Certificate of Approval (required for private schools)
• State registration (for church-exempt schools if choosing registration)

Voluntary Accreditation (to enhance credibility):

• AIMS (Association of Independent Maryland & DC Schools)
• MSA-CESS (Middle States Association)
• NAIS (National Association of Independent Schools)
• Regional or specialty accreditors

Why pursue accreditation?

• Enhances community credibility and reputation
• Facilitates student transfers between schools
• Improves college admissions prospects
• Demonstrates commitment to quality standards
• Required for NAIS membership
• Professional networking and development opportunities

Association of Independent Maryland & DC Schools (AIMS)

Organization Overview

AIMS is the principal regional accreditor and professional association for Maryland independent schools.

Website: https://www.aimsmddc.org/

Membership: Over 80 independent schools across Maryland and DC

Accreditation Standards: AIMS and Maryland standards aligned with regional best practices

Accreditation Process

Timeline: 10-year accreditation cycle

• Self-study: 2-year inclusive self-study examining all school operations
• Accreditation team visit: External evaluators tour facility, interview stakeholders, review documentation
• Accreditation decision: Commission on Accreditation determines status
• Mid-cycle visit: 5-year midpoint check-in
• Action plan: School commits to continuous improvement initiatives

What's evaluated:

• Governance and leadership
• Mission and strategic planning
• Curriculum and instruction
• Assessment and student achievement
• Faculty and staff
• Financial management
• Facilities and technology
• Community partnerships

Source: Association of Independent Maryland & DC Schools

When to Pursue AIMS Accreditation

Recommended timeline: Year 2-3 after establishing successful operations

Benefits for microschools:

• Regional credibility (critical for college admissions and transfers)
• Facilitates student transfers within Maryland independent school network
• Professional development and networking
• Access to AIMS conferences and resources

Middle States Association (MSA-CESS)

Organization Overview

MSA-CESS (Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools) covers the Mid-Atlantic region including Maryland.

Website: https://msa-cess.org/

Standards: 12 Standards for Accreditation representing quality school components

Accreditation Protocols (Choose One)

1. Designing Our Future (DOF)

• Focus on school capacity and student performance growth
• Newer pathway for schools emphasizing equity and inclusion

2. Excellence by Design (ExBD)

• Strategic planning for institutional improvement
• Schools seeking to strengthen operations

3. Sustaining Excellence

• For established high-performing schools
• Focuses on maintaining quality

Updated Standards: Standards for Accreditation School Edition 2021 (effective spring 2022 self-studies)

Source: Middle States Association

When to Pursue MSA-CESS Accreditation

Best for: Schools planning regional or multi-state recognition

Timeline: Year 3-5 after establishing operations

Advantage: Widely recognized by colleges and universities across Mid-Atlantic and beyond

National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)

Membership Requirements

NAIS membership requires:

• 5+ years of operation (institutional stability requirement)
• Accreditation from NAIS-approved organization (AIMS, MSA-CESS, or other approved bodies)

NAIS-Approved Accreditors for Maryland:

• AIMS (Maryland & DC)
• MSA-CESS (Mid-Atlantic region)
• SAIS (Southern Association of Independent Schools)
• Other regional associations

Source: National Association of Independent Schools

Benefits of NAIS Membership

• National network of 1,500+ independent schools
• Professional development resources and annual conferences
• Research and best practices library
• Diversity and inclusion initiatives
• College counseling support and networking
• Marketing and branding resources
• Insurance and benefits programs

Why this timeline works: Year 1 is survival and compliance. Year 2 is establishing systems. Year 3+ you have the stability and documentation to pursue accreditation meaningfully.

VII. REAL MARYLAND EXAMPLES & CASE STUDIES

Montessori Microschools in Maryland

Current Montessori Sector Overview

Maryland has a robust Montessori presence. 75 Montessori schools approved by MSDE serve 5,905 students with an average tuition of $16,389.

For context: Maryland has 680 private schools total, so Montessori represents about 11% of all private schools. That's significant.

Directory: MSDE Official Approved Montessori Schools List

Indigo Montessori (Baltimore) - Wildflower Network

The School Location: Hampden neighborhood, Baltimore Grades: K-5 (opening Fall 2025) Size: Under 40 students Model: Wildflower Network microschool

Educational Approach

• Montessori Method with emphasis on mixed-age learning community
• Weekly forest visits in nearby Roosevelt Park
• Nature-based daily learning
• Focus on curiosity, creativity, imagination
• Community-embedded learning

Enrollment and Tuition

• Sliding scale: 0-14% of family income
• Designed to serve families across income levels
• Year 1: K-2 multiage class
• Plans to expand one grade level annually through Grade 5

Key Lessons for Founders

• Wildflower Network provides school-in-a-box model with curriculum, training, support
• Teacher-leaders operate with high autonomy while maintaining standards
• Partnerships with community organizations (parks, nonprofits) extend learning beyond classroom
• Urban microschools can thrive with right facility and community relationships
• Sliding scale tuition allows service to diverse families

Website: https://www.indigomontessori.org/

The Journey School (Spencerville)

The School Location: 2430 Spencerville Rd, Spencerville, MD Serves: Montgomery and Howard counties (diverse student draw) Grades: Infant through Grade 8 Founded: August 2015 Structure: Nonprofit Montessori school

Enrollment and Tuition

• Multi-age approach from toddler through middle school
• Approximately 15-30 students (typical microschool size)
• Tuition: ~$15,500 annually
• Serves families from: Ashton, Brookeville, Burtonsville, Bowie, Clarksville, Cloverly, Columbia, Ellicott City, Fulton, Highland, Laytonsville, Laurel, Olney, Kensington, Sandy Spring, Silver Spring, Spencerville, Takoma Park

Educational Approach

• Project-based Montessori curriculum
• Work with land, environment, and community
• Upper school micro-economy (students manage classroom economy, make financial decisions)
• Multi-age learning communities
• Emphasis on independence and community responsibility

Key Lessons for Founders

• Multi-age approach from toddler through middle school demonstrates institutional sustainability
• Extended geographic draw (serving 18 communities) shows strong market appeal
• Long tenure (founded 2015, established school) provides proof of concept
• Nonprofit structure enables tax benefits and community trust
• Project-based integration with land/environment creates differentiation

Website: https://www.thejourneyschool.net/

Montessori School of Westminster (Carroll County)

The School Location: Westminster, MD (Carroll County) Grades: Ages 2 through Grade 9 Structure: Accredited private school

Enrollment and Educational Approach

• Extended age range (toddler through middle school) enables sustainability
• Accredited school status enhances community credibility
• Serves suburban/rural market (Westminster area)
• Demonstrates viability of Montessori in non-metropolitan areas

Key Lessons for Founders

• Rural/suburban markets are viable for microschools (not just urban)
• Extended age range (through Grade 9) creates revenue stability
• Accreditation enhances community trust and long-term sustainability
• Smaller towns often have underserved demand for alternative education

Website: https://montessorischoolofwestminster.org/

Microschool Networks Operating in Maryland

Wildflower Montessori Network

Network Overview

Wildflower operates one of the most innovative microschool models in the country.

• Scale: Over 60 schools in 17 states, Washington DC, and Puerto Rico
• Founders: Sep Kamvar and veteran Montessorians Mary Rockett and Katelyn Shore
• Model: Decentralized Montessori microschools led by "teacher-leaders"
• Funding: Mission-driven (not extractive franchise model)
• Maryland presence: Indigo Montessori (Baltimore)

Support Provided to Founders

• Teacher-leader training and Montessori certification
• Facility design and setup support
• Curriculum and materials guidance
• Ongoing mentorship and community of practice
• Business operations toolkit
• Access to network of other teacher-leaders

Why This Model Works for Maryland

• Aligns with Maryland's moderate regulatory environment
• Teacher-leader autonomy fits within MSDE approval requirements
• Montessori recognized by Maryland (75 approved schools already)
• Network support reduces startup complexity
• Emphasis on teacher autonomy resonates with education innovators

Website: https://www.wildflowerschools.org/

Acton Academy - Three Maryland Locations

Acton Academy operates a "one-room schoolhouse for the 21st century" model with strong presence in Maryland.

Acton Academy Annapolis

Location: Annapolis, MD Model: Socratic discussions, self-paced learning, real-world projects Structure: Multi-age classroom with learner-driven approach

Spartek Academy (Columbia) - Acton Academy

Location: Columbia, MD Serves: Baltimore-Washington corridor Grades: K-10 (Upper School launching) Dual Model:

• 5 days/week on-campus private school (MSDE certified)
• 2 days/week homeschool tutorial option (with umbrella supervision and portfolio reviews)

Educational Approach:

• Learner-driven technology integration
• Socratic discussions with adults and peers
• Hands-on projects and real-world apprenticeships
• Multi-age learning community
• Philosophy: Each child has a gift that can change the world

Admissions: Rolling/year-round enrollment

Key Lessons: Acton's dual model (full-time school + part-time homeschool option) shows flexibility in serving different family preferences. The learner-driven approach appeals to parents seeking independence and agency in learning.

The Patuxent School (Bowie) - Acton Academy

Location: Bowie, MD Focus: Learner-driven education Model: Acton Academy approach to self-directed learning

Acton Academy Network Overview

• Model: "One-room schoolhouses for the 21st century"
• Philosophy: Learner-driven, project-based education
• Scale: Locations in 30+ states and 25+ countries
• Founded: 2010 by Laura and Jeff Sandefer
• Franchise model: Founders pay licensing fee, receive training and ongoing support

Why Acton Succeeds in Maryland

• Learner-driven approach resonates with education innovators
• MSDE approval obtainable (private school path)
• Multi-age communities create sustainability
• Flexible dual model serves diverse family needs
• Network support valuable for new founders

Website: https://www.actonacademy.org/find

Prenda Microschools Network

Network Overview

Prenda takes a different approach: supporting independent "guides" (not franchised schools).

• Founded: 2018 in Arizona by Kelly Smith
• Scale: Over 1,000 microschool founders supported, 10,000+ K-8 students across US
• Model: Decentralized microschools led by independent guides
• Technology: Microschool management platform, curriculum marketplace, community

How Maryland Founders Can Use Prenda

• Interactive map and searchable directory at prenda.com
• No franchising or license fees (guides own their microschools)
• Technology platform for virtual and hybrid learning
• Curriculum marketplace and resources
• Compliance documentation tools
• Community connections with other Maryland guides
• Training and mentorship resources

Maryland Presence Unlike franchised models, Prenda operates through independent guides who may operate from homes, community spaces, churches, or commercial locations. There's no centralized directory of physical locations.

Why Prenda Appeals to Maryland Founders

• Low barrier to entry (no franchise fees)
• Flexibility in location and model
• Platform handles administrative burden
• Access to 1,000+ other guides nationally
• Curriculum flexibility
• Supports both full-time and enrichment models

Website: https://www.prenda.com/states/maryland

Growth Trends and Opportunity Analysis

Post-Pandemic Homeschool Surge

The numbers are striking. Between June and November 2020, more than 13,000 students transitioned from pandemic school-at-home to officially homeschooled.

Current Status (2023-24):

• Homeschool population now exceeds 40,000 students (4.65% of K-12)
• Pre-pandemic maximum: 3.0% of K-12 population (27,000 students in 2015)
• Post-pandemic growth: 35% increase from pre-pandemic levels

The key insight: This isn't a temporary pandemic effect. The homeschool population stabilized at 4.65%—40% above pre-pandemic levels. That represents 13,000+ families who've made permanent educational choices different from traditional public school.

"Prior to the pandemic, Maryland's homeschool population remained relatively stable, fluctuating nominally year-to-year. Historically, homeschooled children represented no more than 3.0% of the K-12 public school population before 2020, making the jump to 4.65% a significant shift."

Source: Maryland Homeschool Association Statistics and Maryland Matters - August 2025

Geographic Opportunity Zones

Growth isn't uniform across Maryland. Some counties are experiencing explosive homeschool growth:

Strong Growth Counties:

• Garrett and Harford counties: Triple-digit percentage increases
• Carroll County: Strong growth region
• Frederick County: Growing market
• Howard County: Affluent suburban market with alternative education appetite

Moderate Growth:

• Baltimore County and surrounding suburbs
• Prince George's County (Washington DC suburbs)

Less Growth (but potential opportunity):

• Baltimore City: Less than 15% growth in homeschooling (potential underserved market)
• Somerset County: Only jurisdiction experiencing loss (rural challenges)

Implication for microschool founders: Suburban counties (Harford, Carroll, Howard, Frederick) show strong demand. Baltimore City may be an underserved market—parents seeking alternatives to public schools with limited microschool options.

Private School Market Context

For broader context:

• 680 private schools operating in Maryland (2021-22)
• 143,120 private school students enrolled
• 14,340 private school teachers employed
• Average private school size: 210 students

Source: Private School Universe Survey (National Center for Education Statistics)

Market Gap Analysis:

• Average private school size of 210 students means most serve institutional, not personal needs
• Microschools (5-20 students) represent underserved segment
• Parents explicitly seeking small, personalized alternatives have limited options currently
• 40,000+ homeschool families represent demand pool for microschools

VIII. FINANCIAL PLANNING & BUDGETING

Startup Cost Breakdown

Let's get real about money. Starting a microschool requires capital—how much depends on your model.

Complete Year 1 Budget Summary

Here are three realistic scenarios:

Low-Budget Model (Church facility, minimal setup)

• Legal & Regulatory: $1,037
• Facility: $4,700
• Insurance: $3,000
• Materials (one-time): $6,300
• Operating: $39,000
• Total Year 1: $54,037

This budget works for: Experienced founder, church partnership, starting with 8-10 students, lean operations

Mid-Range Model (Commercial lease, standard setup)

• Legal & Regulatory: $1,500
• Facility: $25,000
• Insurance: $5,000
• Materials (one-time): $10,000
• Operating: $55,000
• Total Year 1: $96,500

This budget works for: New founder, dedicated facility, professional appearance important, 10-15 students

Premium Model (Prime location, comprehensive setup)

• Legal & Regulatory: $2,862
• Facility: $47,100
• Insurance: $8,500
• Materials (one-time): $17,300
• Operating: $72,125
• Total Year 1: $147,887

This budget works for: Well-capitalized founder, established location important, immediate growth plans, 15-20 students Year 1

Revenue Planning and Tuition Setting

Enrollment Assumptions (Typical Microschool Growth)

• Year 1: 8-12 students (conservative, survival mode)
• Year 2: 15-18 students (growth, systems established)
• Year 3: 18-25 students (mature, sustainable enrollment)

Tuition Benchmarking for Maryland

Maryland context:

• Average Montessori tuition: $16,389 (2025-26 school year)
• All private schools average: $15,000-$20,000 annually

Microschool competitive positioning:

• Low-end: $8,000-$10,000 annually (serving price-sensitive families, high volume)
• Mid-range: $12,000-$15,000 annually (value positioning, sustainable model)
• Premium: $16,000-$20,000 annually (aligned with traditional private schools, specialized methods)

Breakeven Analysis

Mid-Range Model ($96,500 Year 1 costs, $12,000 tuition):

• Breakeven enrollment: 8 students ($96,500 ÷ $12,000 = 8.04)
• Recommended buffer: 10 students (accounts for attrition)

Low-Budget Model ($54,037 Year 1 costs, $10,000 tuition):

• Breakeven enrollment: 6 students ($54,037 ÷ $10,000 = 5.4)
• Recommended buffer: 8 students

Key insight: Church-based microschools with lean operations can achieve sustainability at very small scale. A founder with modest startup capital (under $60,000) can launch viably with 8-10 students.

Funding Sources and Financial Aid in Maryland

Current Maryland Landscape: No ESA Program

Maryland does not currently have an operational Education Savings Account (ESA) program. This is a critical difference from school-choice-heavy states like Arizona, Florida, Indiana, and Texas.

What exists:

• BOOST voucher program (active for low-income students, very limited)

What was proposed but defeated:

• HB 569 (2023): "Maryland Universal School Choice Act" would have established ESA program but faced significant opposition and did not advance
• Related 2024 proposals (HB 704 income-based ESA, HB 675 universal ESA) also have not passed

What this means for microschool founders: Tuition must be affordable for direct-pay families. You can't count on vouchers or ESA funding. Yet.

Alternative Funding Strategies

1. Sliding Scale Tuition

• Serve families at different income levels
• Example: Indigo Montessori uses 0-14% of family income sliding scale
• Increases enrollment from price-sensitive families
• Requires nonprofit structure and philosophy

2. Payment Plans

• Monthly or quarterly payments reduce barrier to entry
• Most families can afford $1,000-$1,500/month easier than $12,000 upfront
• Improves accessibility without reducing revenue

3. Fundraising

• Community events (family festivals, fundraising dinners)
• Annual giving campaigns to existing families
• Nonprofit status enables tax-deductible donations
• Grant writing for education-focused foundations

4. Grants

• Private foundation education grants (limited but available)
• Community foundation grants
• Corporate education partnerships

5. Employer Partnerships

• Negotiated tuition discounts for employees' children
• Companies sponsoring tuition as benefit
• Nearby employers (tech companies, nonprofits) often interested

6. Student Diversity

• Enrollment services (tutoring, enrichment) beyond core school
• Summer camps or after-school programs
• Community education classes (parent workshops, neighborhood learning)

IX. STEP-BY-STEP STARTUP TIMELINE

Starting a microschool takes time. A realistic timeline is 9-12 months from idea to first day of school for the private school path, or 2-3 months for the homeschool cooperative path. Here's what each month looks like.

Month 1-2: Foundation and Planning

Week 1-2: Research and Pathway Decision

• [ ] Read full Maryland regulations (COMAR 13A.09.09 for private schools, COMAR 13A.10.01 for homeschools)
• [ ] Decide: Private school certification or homeschool cooperative?
• [ ] Connect with existing Maryland microschools for insights
• [ ] Join Maryland Homeschool Association or AIMS for networking

Week 3-4: Develop Your Educational Vision

• [ ] Write mission statement and educational philosophy
• [ ] Define grade levels and student population served
• [ ] Choose learning methodology (Montessori, project-based, classical, etc.)
• [ ] Outline typical day/week structure
• [ ] Identify your competitive differentiation

Week 5-6: Create Business Plan

• [ ] Define target market and enrollment projections
• [ ] Research competitive tuition in your area
• [ ] Create 3-year financial projections
• [ ] Identify startup capital sources (personal savings, loans, grants, family)
• [ ] Outline staffing plan and timeline

Week 7-8: Identify Facility Locations

• [ ] Tour 3-5 potential church partnerships in your area
• [ ] Contact commercial landlords about educational space
• [ ] Check zoning regulations for potential locations
• [ ] Estimate facility costs by option
• [ ] Select top 2-3 options for further negotiation

Month 3-4: Legal Formation (Private School Path)

Week 9-10: File Articles of Incorporation

• [ ] Draft Articles of Incorporation with attorney or template
• [ ] File with Maryland State Department of Assessments & Taxation
• [ ] Pay filing fee ($262 for tax-exempt nonstock corporation)
• [ ] Receive State Certificate of Incorporation

Week 11-12: Await State Approval

• [ ] State processes incorporation (2-4 weeks typical)
• [ ] Prepare Articles and Bylaws for 501(c)(3) application
• [ ] Develop nonprofit governance structure (board of directors)

Week 13-14: Business Banking and EIN

• [ ] Apply for federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from IRS
• [ ] Open business bank account with EIN
• [ ] Establish business accounting system
• [ ] Consult with accountant about nonprofit tax requirements

Week 15-16: File 501(c)(3) Application

• [ ] Complete IRS Form 1023-EZ or Form 1023
• [ ] Gather supporting documentation (bylaws, conflict of interest policy, etc.)
• [ ] Pay IRS filing fee ($275-$600 depending on form)
• [ ] Submit application to IRS

Month 5-6: Facility and Insurance

Week 17-18: Secure Facility Lease or Partnership Agreement

• [ ] Negotiate church partnership agreement or commercial lease
• [ ] Verify zoning compliance
• [ ] Ensure facility can accommodate fire code requirements
• [ ] Sign lease or partnership agreement
• [ ] Plan facility improvements if needed

Week 19-20: Schedule Fire Inspection

• [ ] Contact Office of the Fire Marshal in your county
• [ ] Schedule inspection of facility
• [ ] Request preliminary assessment of code compliance
• [ ] Identify any required improvements

Week 21-22: Obtain Insurance Quotes

• [ ] Get quotes for general liability insurance
• [ ] Get quotes for workers' compensation (if hiring staff)
• [ ] Get quotes for professional liability insurance
• [ ] Select policies and enroll
• [ ] Ensure policies are in force before MSDE submission

Week 23-24: Complete Fire Inspection

• [ ] Address any fire code violations identified
• [ ] Complete required improvements
• [ ] Schedule follow-up inspection if needed
• [ ] Receive fire inspection approval and permits

Month 7-8: MSDE Certification and Curriculum

Week 25-26: Compile MSDE Certificate Application Materials

• [ ] Gather teacher resumes and degree transcripts
• [ ] Write curriculum overview for each subject area
• [ ] Create student handbook with policies
• [ ] Prepare non-discrimination statement
• [ ] Write child abuse reporting procedures
• [ ] Document immunization procedures

Week 27-28: Submit MSDE Certificate of Approval Application

• [ ] Create account on Maryland OneStop Portal
• [ ] Complete all required application forms
• [ ] Attach supporting documentation
• [ ] Submit application
• [ ] Receive confirmation of submission

Week 29-30: Select and Order Curriculum

• [ ] Research curriculum options aligned with your philosophy
• [ ] Order textbooks and materials for all subjects
• [ ] Set up online learning accounts if using digital curriculum
• [ ] Create curriculum pacing guide for school year
• [ ] Order supplemental materials (art, science, PE equipment)

Week 31-32: Develop Student Policies

• [ ] Create student handbook (discipline, attendance, grading)
• [ ] Write parent-teacher communication plan
• [ ] Develop enrollment and admission processes
• [ ] Create assessment and reporting procedures
• [ ] Write health and safety protocols

Month 9-10: Marketing and Enrollment

Week 33-34: Launch Website and Social Media

• [ ] Create simple website describing school mission and programs
• [ ] Set up social media accounts (Facebook for local community)
• [ ] Write compelling school description and mission statement
• [ ] Create contact information and inquiry form
• [ ] Post photos of facility and team

Week 35-36: Host Community Open Houses

• [ ] Schedule 2-3 open house events (weekends work best)
• [ ] Create signage and invitations
• [ ] Prepare facility tours
• [ ] Develop presentations about your educational approach
• [ ] Invite local parent groups and homeschool associations

Week 37-38: Begin Accepting Applications

• [ ] Create application form (online or paper)
• [ ] Schedule family interviews
• [ ] Conduct interviews with family and student
• [ ] Ask about learning style, goals, family values
• [ ] Discuss tuition and payment options

Week 39-40: Await MSDE Approval

• [ ] MSDE processes application (4-8 weeks typical)
• [ ] Stay available for any MSDE questions
• [ ] Continue enrollment outreach during waiting period
• [ ] Plan teacher hiring and onboarding

Month 11-12: Final Preparations and Launch

Week 41-42: Receive MSDE Certificate of Approval

• [ ] Confirmation email from MSDE
• [ ] Print and display Certificate of Approval prominently
• [ ] Update website and marketing materials
• [ ] Announce approval to inquiring families

Week 43-44: Order Furniture and Materials

• [ ] Order desks, chairs, shelving, storage
• [ ] Set up classroom learning spaces
• [ ] Organize supply storage
• [ ] Create inviting, functional learning environment

Week 45-46: Teacher Training and Preparation

• [ ] Conduct teacher onboarding and orientation
• [ ] Review curriculum and assessment procedures
• [ ] Practice emergency procedures (fire drills, etc.)
• [ ] Set up classroom technology
• [ ] Plan first week activities

Week 47-48: Parent Orientation and Community Building

• [ ] Host parent orientation event
• [ ] Explain educational philosophy and daily routines
• [ ] Distribute student handbook and policies
• [ ] Establish parent communication systems (newsletter, email, app)
• [ ] Build community and address parent questions

Week 49+: LAUNCH!

• [ ] First day of school
• [ ] Welcome ceremonies and celebrations
• [ ] Establish daily routines and rhythms
• [ ] Begin regular parent communication

Alternative Timeline: Homeschool Cooperative Path (Much Faster)

If launching as a homeschool cooperative, you can compress the timeline significantly:

Month 1: Planning and Vision

• Develop cooperative model and educational philosophy
• Recruit founding families (3-6 families ideal)
• Determine supervision option (portfolio, church, or nonpublic school)

Month 2: Notification and Setup

• Each family completes Home Instruction Notification form
• Submit to local county superintendent at least 15 days before start
• Secure meeting space (homes, churches, community centers)
• Agree on shared curriculum and activity schedule
• Establish communication systems

Month 3: Launch

• Begin instruction with parent-led teaching rotation
• Maintain portfolios for each family
• Establish community norms and expectations
• Plan monthly enrichment activities

Key difference: Homeschool cooperative can launch in 2-3 months vs. 9-12 months for private school certification. The tradeoff is scalability (cooperatives max out at 15-20 students, while private schools can grow larger) and accreditation pathways (private schools can pursue AIMS/MSA-CESS/NAIS).

X. ONGOING COMPLIANCE AND BEST PRACTICES

Annual Compliance Calendar (Private Schools)

Q1 (January-March)

• [ ] Renew general liability and workers' compensation insurance
• [ ] File annual report with Maryland State Department of Assessments & Taxation
• [ ] Prepare IRS Form 990 (if 501(c)(3)) - due May 15
• [ ] Schedule annual fire inspection

Q2 (April-June)

• [ ] Plan enrollment for next academic year
• [ ] Review and update student handbooks and policies
• [ ] Host spring open house for prospective families
• [ ] Begin teacher hiring or contract renewals for fall

Q3 (July-September)

• [ ] Renew MSDE Certificate of Approval (annual renewal required)
• [ ] Complete facility maintenance and improvements
• [ ] Conduct teacher training and professional development
• [ ] Host parent orientation before school year start

Q4 (October-December)

• [ ] Review financial performance and budget for next year
• [ ] Plan fundraising events and annual giving campaign
• [ ] Evaluate curriculum effectiveness and consider updates
• [ ] Conduct mid-year family satisfaction surveys

Annual Compliance Calendar (Homeschool Cooperatives)

Portfolio Review Preparation (Ongoing)

• [ ] Maintain organized portfolio with work samples from all 8 subjects
• [ ] Document attendance and learning activities weekly
• [ ] Prepare for superintendent review requests (up to 3 times annually)
• [ ] Keep copies of all curriculum materials and resources

Annual Tasks

• [ ] Review and update educational goals for each child
• [ ] Assess portfolio supervision option (consider switching if needed)
• [ ] Plan enrichment activities and field trips for cooperative
• [ ] Recruit new families to replace any departures

Risk Management Best Practices

Student Safety Protocols

• Conduct background checks on all staff and regular volunteers
• Maintain updated emergency contact information
• Establish clear pickup/dropoff procedures with parent identification
• Post emergency evacuation plans and conduct quarterly fire drills
• Maintain first aid supplies and staff CPR certification
• Develop child abuse reporting procedures and staff training

Legal and Financial Protection

• Maintain detailed financial records (7-year retention recommended)
• Document all major decisions in Board meeting minutes (if nonprofit)
• Review insurance coverage annually and adjust as enrollment grows
• Consult attorney for contract reviews (enrollment agreements, leases, employment)
• Keep all student records secure and confidential

Family Communication Systems

• Weekly or monthly newsletters updating families on curriculum and events
• Parent-teacher conference schedule (minimum 2x annually)
• Clear grievance policy for addressing parent concerns
• Transparent financial reporting (especially for nonprofits)
• Regular community-building events (potlucks, celebrations, volunteer days)

Quality Improvement Strategies

Student Assessment and Progress Monitoring

• Regular formative assessments aligned with curriculum
• Annual standardized testing (optional but recommended for credibility)
• Portfolio documentation showing growth over time
• Parent conferences with specific achievement data
• Individual student learning plans tracking progress

Teacher Professional Development

• Annual conferences or workshops (minimum 15 hours/year recommended)
• Peer observation and feedback systems
• Curriculum training from publishers and developers
• Join professional associations (AIMS, local Montessori societies)
• Ongoing education in teaching methods and pedagogical research

Program Evaluation

• Annual parent satisfaction surveys
• Student retention rate tracking (goal: >85%)
• Graduate outcomes monitoring (college acceptance, next school placement)
• Accreditation preparation (if pursuing AIMS or MSA-CESS)
• Annual retreat for staff to assess and improve operations

XI. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1: Do I need a teaching license to start a microschool in Maryland?

Answer:

No, for private pay schools. According to the U.S. Department of Education, Maryland private schools (COMAR 13A.09.09) do NOT require teachers to hold state certification. Teachers must have:

• Bachelor's degree (120+ semester hours), OR
• Bachelor's degree equivalent

Yes, for publicly funded schools. If your school receives public funding (rare for microschools), teachers must hold standard public school certificates.

For homeschool cooperatives: No formal teacher qualifications required. Parents serve as primary instructors.

Q2: How long does it take to get MSDE approval to operate a private school?

Answer:

4-8 weeks typical processing time from submission of complete application. However, the entire startup process from incorporation to approval can take 6-12 months when including:

• Nonprofit incorporation: 2-4 weeks
• 501(c)(3) IRS approval: 2-8 weeks (Form 1023-EZ) or 2-8 months (Form 1023)
• Facility securing and fire inspection: 4-8 weeks
• MSDE application preparation and review: 4-8 weeks

Recommendation: Begin the process at least 9 months before your planned opening date to allow buffer time for unexpected delays.

Q3: Can I start as a homeschool cooperative and later transition to a private school?

Answer:

Yes, this is a common and recommended growth path. Many successful Maryland microschools begin as homeschool cooperatives to:

• Test educational model with lower regulatory burden
• Build founding family community and enrollment
• Develop curriculum and systems before formal certification
• Reduce upfront financial risk

Critical considerations:

1. Maintain legal boundaries: During cooperative phase, ensure parents remain primary instructors to avoid operating as unapproved school
2. Plan transition timeline: Allow 6-12 months for private school approval process
3. Communicate with families: Set clear expectations about timeline and tuition changes
4. Facility implications: May need to upgrade facility to meet fire codes and accessibility standards

Recommended transition triggers:

• Enrollment grows beyond 12-15 students (cooperative becomes unwieldy)
• Desire to hire professional non-parent educators
• Families requesting formal transcripts or diplomas
• Interest in pursuing accreditation

Q4: What happens if my homeschool cooperative hires a teacher who isn't a parent?

Answer:

You likely transition into private school territory. According to the Coalition for Responsible Home Education:

"If an organized group of unrelated students is regularly taught by someone who isn't their parent or guardian, this could be considered an unapproved nonpublic school by law."

Legal risk: Operating an unapproved nonpublic school can result in:

• Violation of Maryland Education Code § 2-206
• Potential shutdown order from MSDE
• Truancy issues for enrolled students
• Legal jeopardy for families in program

Safe alternatives:

1. Keep teacher as enrichment provider: Hire teacher for supplemental subjects (art, music, PE) 1-2 times weekly, while parents maintain responsibility for core subjects
2. Transition to private school: Apply for MSDE Certificate of Approval to legally hire non-parent educators
3. Umbrella school supervision: Partner with approved nonpublic school that provides teaching supervision

Q5: Are there any school choice programs or vouchers available in Maryland?

Answer:

No, Maryland does not currently have an operational ESA or school voucher program.

Recent legislative history:

• HB 569 (2023): "Maryland Universal School Choice Act" would have established an Education Savings Account (ESA) program but was defeated after facing significant opposition from Public School Superintendents' Association of Maryland
• HB 704 & HB 675 (2024): Income-based and universal ESA proposals also have not passed

What exists: BOOST voucher program for low-income families (very limited compared to universal choice programs)

Implication for microschool founders: Tuition must be affordable for direct-pay families. Consider sliding scale tuition or payment plans. Monitor legislative developments—school choice advocacy is growing nationally and could change Maryland's landscape.

Alternative funding:

• Private scholarship funds (limited availability)
• Community fundraising and donors
• Employer education benefits
• Family education savings accounts (529 plans can be used for K-12 tuition)

Q6: What is the minimum enrollment I need to be financially sustainable?

Answer:

Depends on your cost structure and tuition pricing. Based on budgeting analysis:

Low-budget church model ($54,037 Year 1 costs, $10,000 tuition):

• Breakeven: 6 students
• Recommended buffer: 8-10 students

Mid-range commercial lease model ($96,500 Year 1 costs, $12,000 tuition):

• Breakeven: 8 students
• Recommended buffer: 10-12 students

Key success factors:

1. Keep overhead low initially: Church facilities, lean staffing, used furniture
2. Price competitively: Maryland average private school tuition is $15,000-$20,000; microschools can differentiate on price ($8,000-$12,000) while maintaining quality
3. Build slowly: Start with 8-10 students Year 1, grow to 15-18 Year 2, mature at 20-25 students Year 3
4. Diversify revenue: Enrichment programs, summer camps, after-school care can supplement tuition

Reality check: Maryland Montessori schools average 79 students (5,905 students ÷ 75 schools), but many operate sustainably with 15-30 students. Microschools intentionally stay small (5-25 students) to maintain personalized learning environment.

Q7: Can homeschooled students in Maryland participate in public school sports and extracurriculars?

Answer:

Generally no. Maryland law does not have an "equal access" provision requiring public schools to allow homeschooled students to participate in extracurricular activities.

Exceptions:

• Some individual counties or schools may allow participation on case-by-case basis
• Check with your local county school district for specific policies

Alternative options:

• Homeschool sports leagues (Maryland has several)
• Community recreation programs (parks and recreation departments)
• Private sports clubs and teams
• YMCA and other youth organizations
• Microschool-organized activities and teams
• Partner with other microschools for inter-school athletics

Planning consideration for microschool founders: Consider partnering with other microschools for inter-school athletics, join homeschool athletic associations, budget for coaches/facilities for PE and sports programs, and highlight unique extracurricular opportunities (not available in public schools) as enrollment differentiator.

Q8: What are the immunization requirements for Maryland private schools?

Answer:

Maryland's immunization laws apply to both public and private schools. According to the Maryland Department of Health:

Required vaccinations (varies by grade level):

• DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
• Polio
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Hepatitis B
• Varicella (Chickenpox)
• Meningococcal (grades 7-12)
• Tdap booster (grade 7)

Exemptions available:

1. Medical exemption: Documentation from licensed physician
2. Religious exemption: Statement of objection from parent/guardian

Enforcement:

"The school must have proof of immunizations before allowing a student to begin school, and if evidence of the required vaccines is not provided, the student will be excluded from school."

Best practice for microschools:

• Collect immunization records during enrollment process
• Maintain confidential health files for each student
• Designate staff member responsible for compliance tracking
• Send reminder notices for students with incomplete records
• Document all exemptions with parental statements

Q9: Can I operate my microschool from my home?

Answer:

Maybe, but it's complicated and depends on your model.

Homeschool cooperative: ✅ Yes, cooperatives can meet in homes without facility requirements. Rotate between member families' homes or designate one home as primary location. No zoning or fire code compliance required for informal cooperatives.

Private school: ❌ Probably not. Faces significant challenges:

1. Zoning: Residential zones typically do NOT permit commercial/educational use

• Would need conditional use permit or variance (difficult to obtain)
• Neighbors may object to increased traffic and activity

1. Fire codes: Home would need to meet commercial fire safety standards

• Fire suppression systems
• Multiple exits
• Evacuation plans and drills
• Annual inspections
• Most residential homes cannot meet these standards

1. Liability insurance: Homeowner's insurance typically excludes commercial activities; would need separate commercial policy
2. Practical limitations: Difficult to display Certificate of Approval in "conspicuous place" without drawing attention to home-based operation

Recommended alternatives:

• Start as homeschool cooperative in home, then transition to commercial space when scaling to private school
• Church facilities: Much more affordable and already zoned/permitted for educational use
• Shared office/coworking spaces: Some communities have education-friendly shared spaces
• Community centers: Many offer daily/weekly room rentals at reasonable rates

Bottom line: For formal private schools, commercial facility is strongly recommended. Save home-based model for informal homeschool cooperatives.

Q10: What professional organizations should I join as a Maryland microschool founder?

Answer:

Recommended memberships (prioritized):

1. Association of Independent Maryland & DC Schools (AIMS)

• Why: Primary regional accreditor and independent school association
• Benefits: Networking with established Maryland private schools, professional development workshops, accreditation pathway after 2-3 years, governance/curriculum/operations resources
• Website: https://www.aimsmddc.org/
• When to join: Year 2-3 after establishing operations

2. Maryland Homeschool Association (for cooperative founders)

• Why: State-level homeschool advocacy and resources
• Benefits: Legal compliance guidance, community of Maryland homeschool families, statistics/research, annual conferences, local support groups
• Website: https://mdhsa.com/
• When to join: Immediately if launching as homeschool cooperative

3. Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)

• Why: Legal support and advocacy for homeschool issues
• Benefits: Member legal assistance if compliance issues arise, state-specific legal information for Maryland, legislative advocacy
• Website: https://hslda.org/legal/maryland
• When to join: Immediately if launching as homeschool cooperative
• Cost: ~$135/year membership

4. Microschool Network Membership (if applicable)

• Wildflower Schools (https://www.wildflowerschools.org/) - For Montessori microschools
• Acton Academy - For learner-driven model schools
• Prenda - For technology-enabled microschools
• When to join: Before or during Year 1 for training and support

5. National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)

• Why: National network and professional development
• Requirements: 5+ years of operation AND accreditation from approved body
• Website: https://www.nais.org/
• When to join: Year 5-6 after accreditation

Total annual professional membership budget:

• Year 1: $200-$500 (microschool network + homeschool association)
• Year 2-3: $500-$1,000 (add AIMS membership)
• Year 5+: $1,000-$2,000 (add NAIS if desired)

XII. CONCLUSION & NEXT STEPS

Key Takeaways for Maryland Microschool Founders

Maryland is Microschool-Friendly, But Requires Planning

• Moderate regulatory environment: More structured than Arizona/Florida, more accessible than many northeastern states
• Two clear pathways: Private school certification (for multi-family enrollment with professional educators) or homeschool cooperative (for parent-led instruction)
• No teacher certification required: Private pay schools can hire educators without state teaching licenses (bachelor's degree required)
• Growing market: 40,000+ homeschool families represent significant demand for alternative education options

Success Factors for Maryland Microschools

Based on analysis of existing Maryland microschools and homeschool cooperatives:

Start small and test:

• Launch with 8-12 students to validate model
• Consider homeschool cooperative first, then scale to private school
• Church facilities offer most affordable path to sustainability

Build community first:

• Maryland families value strong community connections
• Parent involvement and partnership central to microschool success
• Word-of-mouth marketing most effective enrollment strategy

Leverage existing networks:

• Join Wildflower, Prenda, or Acton for training and support
• Connect with 75 existing Montessori schools for potential partnerships
• Tap into Maryland Homeschool Association's 40,000+ family network

Plan for compliance from day 1:

• MSDE Certificate of Approval takes 4-8 weeks (build into timeline)
• Fire codes and insurance are non-negotiable (budget accordingly)
• Annual renewals and reporting should be calendared

Financial Realism

• Minimum viable budget: $54,037 Year 1 (church model, lean operations)
• Breakeven enrollment: 6-8 students (depending on model)
• No ESA/voucher support: Tuition must be affordable for direct-pay families ($8,000-$15,000 range most accessible)
• 3-year sustainability timeline: Most microschools reach financial stability by Year 3 with 18-25 students

Decision Framework: Which Path is Right for You?

Choose homeschool cooperative if:

• ✅ You have 3-6 committed founding families ready to partner
• ✅ Parents will serve as primary instructors (not hiring external teachers)
• ✅ You want to start in 2-3 months with minimal upfront costs
• ✅ You're comfortable with portfolio review and homeschool supervision
• ✅ You plan to stay small (8-15 students max)

Choose private school certification if:

• ✅ You plan to hire professional educators (non-parents)
• ✅ You want to serve multiple unrelated families at scale
• ✅ You have 6-12 months for approval process
• ✅ You have $50,000-$100,000+ startup capital (or access to financing)
• ✅ You're pursuing accreditation and long-term institutional sustainability

Immediate Next Steps

Week 1-2: Research and Exploration

1. Read full Maryland regulations:

• Maryland COMAR 13A.09.09 (Private Schools)
• Maryland COMAR 13A.10.01 (Homeschool)
• Maryland Education Code § 2-206 (Certificate of Approval)

1. Connect with existing Maryland microschools:

• Indigo Montessori (Baltimore, Wildflower Network)
• The Journey School (Spencerville)
• Montessori School of Westminster
• Spartek Academy (Columbia, Acton Academy)

1. Join Maryland Homeschool Association (https://mdhsa.com/) to access community

Week 3-4: Planning and Decision

1. Complete business plan and financial projections
2. Decide: Private school or homeschool cooperative pathway
3. Identify 3-5 potential facility locations (church, commercial, community)
4. Begin recruiting founding families (if cooperative) or hiring teacher (if private school)

Month 2: Legal Foundation

1. File Articles of Incorporation (if private school)
2. Submit Home Instruction Notification (if cooperative)
3. Consult education attorney for compliance review
4. Open business bank account and establish bookkeeping

Month 3+: Follow timeline from Section IX

Final Encouragement

Maryland's 40,000+ homeschool families, 680+ private schools, and 75 Montessori microschools demonstrate robust demand for innovative educational alternatives. The state's moderate regulatory framework—requiring planning and compliance but not prohibitively restrictive—creates opportunity for thoughtful founders to launch sustainable microschools.

Whether you choose the homeschool cooperative path or pursue full private school certification, Maryland offers a viable pathway to creating personalized, community-centered learning environments. Start small, build community, plan for compliance, and grow sustainably.

The children and families of Maryland are waiting for your microschool vision. Get started today.

XIII. RESOURCES AND REFERENCES

Primary Maryland Regulatory Agencies

Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE)

• Nonpublic School Approval Branch: https://marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/NPSA/index.aspx
• Maryland OneStop Portal: https://onestop.md.gov/licenses/nonpublic-school-certificate-of-approval-5d1540b154f24d03e9998280

Maryland Comptroller (Tax Exemption)

• https://www.marylandcomptroller.gov/businesses/nonprofits.html

Maryland Business Express (Licensing)

• https://businessexpress.maryland.gov/

Maryland Department of Health (Immunizations)

• https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/OIDEOR/IMMUN/Pages/back-to-school-immunization-requirements.aspx

Maryland Division of Labor and Industry (Fire Codes)

• https://www.dllr.state.md.us/labor/build/buildfirecodes.shtml

Maryland Regulations and Statutes

Maryland Code of Regulations (COMAR)

• Private Schools (13A.09.09): https://mdrules.elaws.us/comar/13a.09.09
• Publicly Funded Schools (13A.09.10): https://mdrules.elaws.us/comar/13a.09.10
• Home Instruction (13A.10.01): https://mdrules.elaws.us/comar/13a.10.01

Maryland Education Code

• Certificate of Approval (§ 2-206): https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ged&section=2-206
• Compulsory Attendance (§ 7-301): https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ged&section=7-301

Professional Associations and Support Organizations

Association of Independent Maryland & DC Schools (AIMS)

• https://www.aimsmddc.org/

Maryland Homeschool Association

• https://mdhsa.com/
• Statistics: https://mdhsa.com/about/maryland-homeschool-statistics/

Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)

• Maryland Page: https://hslda.org/legal/maryland

Coalition for Responsible Home Education

• Maryland Info: https://responsiblehomeschooling.org/state-by-state/maryland/

Middle States Association (MSA-CESS)

• https://msa-cess.org/

National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)

• https://www.nais.org/

Microschool Networks and Models

Wildflower Schools

• https://www.wildflowerschools.org/

Prenda Microschools

• https://www.prenda.com/states/maryland

Acton Academy

• Directory: https://www.actonacademy.org/find
• Spartek Academy (Columbia): https://spartekacton.org/
• Acton Academy Annapolis: https://www.actonannapolis.org/

Legal and Educational Resources

The Maryland People's Law Library

• Private Schools: https://www.peoples-law.org/private-schools
• Home Schooling: https://www.peoples-law.org/home-schooling
• Compulsory Attendance: https://www.peoples-law.org/compulsory-school-attendance

U.S. Department of Education

• Maryland State Regulation: https://www.ed.gov/birth-to-grade-12-education/education-choice/state-regulation-of-private-and-home-schools/maryland-state-regulation-of-private-and-home-schools

Accreditation and School Directories

MSDE Approved Montessori Schools

• https://oitinfo.msde.maryland.gov/NSAB/NSABSchoolList/TotalMontessoriList

Private School Review (Maryland)

• Montessori Schools: https://www.privateschoolreview.com/maryland/montessori-private-schools

Niche (Maryland Schools)

• Montessori Schools: https://www.niche.com/k12/search/montessori-schools/s/maryland/

Legislative and Policy Resources

Public School Superintendents' Association of Maryland (PSSAM)

• HB 569 Opposition: https://www.pssam.org/post/hb-569-maryland-universal-school-choice-act

Maryland Association of Boards of Education (MABE)

• School Law Resources: https://www.mabe.org/

EdChoice (School Choice Research)

• https://www.edchoice.org/

Nonprofit Formation and Tax Exemption

Donor Box - Maryland Nonprofit Guide

• https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/start-a-nonprofit-organization-in-maryland/

Harbor Compliance - Maryland Nonprofit Guide

• https://www.harborcompliance.com/how-to-start-a-non-profit-organization-in-maryland

IRS - 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Organizations

• https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/charitable-organizations/exemption-requirements-501c3-organizations

Insurance Resources

D.H. Lloyd Maryland School Insurance

• https://www.dhlloyd.com/business-insurance/specialized-business-insurance/maryland-school-insurance

Research and Statistics

National Center for Education Statistics

• Private School Universe Survey: https://nces.ed.gov/surveys/pss/

Johns Hopkins Homeschool Hub

• Maryland Data: https://education.jhu.edu/edpolicy/policy-research-initiatives/homeschool-hub/states/maryland/

Maryland Matters

• Homeschool Growth Article: https://marylandmatters.org/2025/08/25/not-back-to-school-and-loving-it-marylands-homeschool-shift/

END OF COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

This guide provides the complete regulatory and practical foundation for launching a microschool or homeschool cooperative in Maryland. Use it as your reference throughout your startup journey, consulting specific sections as you progress through planning, legal formation, and operation.

Disclaimer: This guide provides educational information about Maryland microschool regulations based on current laws and publicly available resources. It is not legal advice. Consult with a qualified education law attorney before making decisions about your specific situation, especially regarding legal structure, ESA fund eligibility for church schools, zoning compliance, and tax obligations. Laws and regulations change - verify all information with official sources before taking action.