Michigan Microschool Regulations: Complete 2026 Guide for Educators

Everything you need to know about starting a legally compliant microschool in Michigan—from registration to operations.

I. Introduction: Michigan's Microschool Opportunity

Michigan is experiencing a quiet revolution in education. While traditional school enrollment continues to fluctuate, families are increasingly turning to alternative education models that offer personalized learning in small, community-centered environments. Microschools—typically serving 15 or fewer students with mixed-age classrooms and individualized instruction—are emerging as a compelling option for parents seeking something different.

But here's the thing: before you can launch your dream microschool in Michigan, you need to understand the regulatory landscape. Unlike some states with complex microschool-specific regulations, Michigan operates under a relatively straightforward private school framework. The catch? You need to know exactly which rules apply to you, what "state approval" actually means, and how to avoid common pitfalls that can derail your launch.

This guide walks you through everything: legal foundations, registration requirements, operational mandates, facility codes, financial considerations, and the practical steps to get your microschool up and running legally in Michigan. Whether you're converting from homeschooling, starting fresh, or forming a cooperative, you'll find the answers you need here.

II. Legal Foundations: Understanding Michigan's Private School Framework

The Bedrock: MCL 380.1561

Michigan's compulsory education law is codified in MCL 380.1561, which states that children ages 6-18 must attend school. The law provides several ways to satisfy this requirement, including attendance at a public school, a state-approved nonpublic school, or homeschooling.

For microschool founders, the key pathway is operating as a state-approved nonpublic school. According to Michigan's private school regulations, a nonpublic school must "teach subjects comparable to those taught in the public schools to children of corresponding age and grade." This comparability standard is determined by the course of study for public schools in the district where your nonpublic school is located.

Specifically, nonpublic schools must provide courses in:

• Mathematics
• Reading
• English
• Science
• Social studies

These subjects must be taught in every grade level. Beyond these core requirements, Michigan law gives nonpublic schools significant freedom in curriculum design, teaching methods, and educational philosophy.

Private School vs. Homeschool: Know the Difference

Here's where many aspiring microschool founders get confused. Michigan law draws a clear distinction between homeschooling and private schools:

Homeschooling in Michigan is largely unregulated. Parents can educate their own children at home without state approval, curriculum mandates, or testing requirements. There's no registration process, no teacher qualifications, and minimal oversight.

Private (nonpublic) schools, however, operate under different rules. If you're teaching other people's children—even just a few families in your living room—you're generally operating a private school, not homeschooling. This triggers compliance requirements including state approval, attendance tracking, and criminal background checks under MCL 380.1230a.

The Michigan Department of Education maintains a list of approved nonpublic schools, and if you're operating as a school serving multiple families, you'll need to be on that list.

The Homeschool Cooperative Gray Area

What about homeschool cooperatives? This is where Michigan law gets murky. A true cooperative—where parents retain primary instructional responsibility and simply share resources, social activities, or occasional enrichment classes—generally falls under the homeschool umbrella. Each family is homeschooling their own children; you're just doing it together.

However, if the cooperative starts to look more like a school—with a set schedule, hired teachers, a formal curriculum, and enrollment of students from multiple unrelated families—it may legally constitute a private school. The determining factors include:

• Instructional authority: Are hired teachers providing primary instruction, or are parents?
• Enrollment structure: Do families "enroll" students, or is it truly parent-led cooperation?
• Schedule and attendance: Is there a mandatory schedule with attendance requirements?
• Compensation: Are instructors paid, or is it volunteer-based resource sharing?

If your cooperative crosses into private school territory, you'll need to comply with Michigan's nonpublic school regulations. Many microschools in Michigan start as cooperatives but ultimately register as private schools to operate with clarity and legitimacy.

III. Registration & State Approval: Your Path to Legal Operation

What "State Approval" Actually Means

Let's demystify this right away: Michigan does not require formal licensing or pre-approval before you open a nonpublic school. There's no application fee, no state inspection before launch, and no bureaucratic gauntlet to run.

Instead, "state approval" in Michigan is more accurately described as recognition. According to Michigan's nonpublic school framework, nonpublic schools satisfying the compulsory school attendance statute must be approved by the state under MCL 380.1561(3)(a). But here's the key: you establish approval by demonstrating compliance with basic requirements, primarily through annual reporting.

The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) annually requests information from nonpublic schools on:

• Number of students in each grade
• Teacher qualifications
• Courses of study offered
• Assurance of compliance with criminal history check requirements

Schools that respond to this annual request and demonstrate they meet Michigan's requirements are added to the official MDE Approved Nonpublic Schools list. This listing is your evidence of state approval.

Initial Registration Steps

Here's your practical roadmap to establishing state approval for your Michigan microschool:

Step 1: Establish Your Legal Entity

Before contacting MDE, decide on your business structure. Most microschools operate as:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Simplest structure, costs $50-$60 to file Articles of Organization with Michigan LARA
• Nonprofit Corporation: Required if you plan to pursue 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status; $60 filing fee
• Sole Proprietorship: Least common for schools serving multiple families

File your formation documents with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) through their online filing system.

Step 2: Contact the Michigan Department of Education

Reach out to the MDE Nonpublic & Home Schools office to introduce your school. You can contact them through the MDE contact page or the Equitable Services Ombudsman, Dr. Chanel DeGuzman, at DeGuzmanC@michigan.gov or 517-241-5391.

Let them know:

• Your school name and location
• Your planned opening date
• The grades you'll serve
• Your anticipated enrollment

While not legally required before opening, this proactive communication establishes a relationship with MDE and ensures you're on their radar for the annual information request.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documentation

Even though Michigan doesn't require pre-approval, maintaining organized records from day one is critical. Prepare:

• Course of study: Document your curriculum showing coverage of required subjects (math, reading, English, science, social studies)
• Teacher qualifications: Résumés and credentials for all instructors
• Facility information: Physical address, safety compliance documentation
• Enrollment policies: Admission procedures, tuition structure, family handbook

Step 4: Complete Background Checks

Before opening your doors, ensure all staff members complete criminal background checks as required by MCL 380.1230a. This includes:

• FBI fingerprint-based background check through Michigan State Police
• Both paid staff and regular volunteers who work continuously in the school
• Processing timeline: Michigan State Police must reply within 30 days
• Record retention: Store background check records for at least six years

Schools cannot employ an individual or allow them to work under contract until after receiving background check results.

Teacher Qualifications: What Michigan Requires

Here's some good news: Michigan does not mandate teacher certification for nonpublic schools—with one important exception.

According to MCL 388.553, teachers in nonpublic schools may qualify by:

• Obtaining a Michigan teaching certificate (optional, not required)
• Obtaining a teaching permit for nonpublic school employment (also optional)
• Religious exemption: If your school claims a sincerely held religious belief objection to teacher certification, minimum education requirements are waived entirely

In practice, most Michigan microschools hire teachers based on:

• Subject matter expertise
• Teaching experience (formal or informal)
• Alignment with the school's educational philosophy
• Ability to work with small, mixed-age groups

That said, documenting your teachers' qualifications is important. When MDE requests annual information, they'll ask about teacher credentials. Strong qualifications boost your school's credibility, even if formal certification isn't legally required.

Timeline Expectations

So, how long does it take to get "approved" in Michigan?

Immediate operation: You can legally open your doors as soon as you've completed background checks and established your curriculum. There's no waiting period for state approval.

Annual reporting: MDE typically sends information requests in the fall. Schools that respond and demonstrate compliance are added to the approved list for that academic year.

Practical timeline for launch:

• 3-6 months before opening: Form legal entity, develop curriculum, secure facility
• 2-3 months before opening: Complete background checks, finalize enrollment
• 1 month before opening: Contact MDE, prepare operational documentation
• Opening day: Begin instruction with compliant curriculum and vetted staff
• First fall semester: Respond to MDE's annual information request

IV. Operational Requirements: Running Your Microschool by the Book

Attendance and Record-Keeping

Michigan law requires nonpublic schools to maintain accurate attendance records. While the state doesn't mandate a specific format, your attendance system should:

• Track daily attendance for all enrolled students
• Document absences with dates and reasons
• Maintain records for at least six years (recommended best practice)
• Be available for inspection if requested by MDE or local authorities

Many microschools use simple spreadsheets or student information systems. The key is consistency and accuracy. Remember: attendance records prove that families are satisfying Michigan's compulsory education requirements.

Curriculum Requirements

Your curriculum must teach subjects comparable to those taught in public schools. This doesn't mean you have to use the same textbooks or methods—Michigan respects educational diversity—but you must cover the core subjects in every grade:

• Mathematics
• Reading
• English
• Science
• Social studies

Beyond these five, you have complete freedom. Want to emphasize project-based learning? Great. Prefer a classical education approach? Go for it. Building a Montessori microschool? Absolutely. Michigan's comparability standard gives you flexibility in how you teach, as long as you cover the what.

Best practice: Document your curriculum in a written scope and sequence showing how you address each required subject across grade levels. This documentation serves multiple purposes:

• Evidence of compliance for MDE
• Communication tool for prospective families
• Internal planning resource for teachers
• Protection in case of legal questions

Health and Safety Mandates

Michigan requires nonpublic schools to comply with basic health and safety regulations:

Immunization Requirements

All students must meet Michigan's immunization requirements before enrollment. The state requires vaccines for:

• Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP)
• Polio (IPV)
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
• Hepatitis B
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Meningococcal (7th grade and above)

However, Michigan also provides waiver options:

• Nonmedical waivers: Parents with religious, philosophical, or personal objections can request waivers after attending an education session at their local health department. The process requires:
• Scheduling an in-person appointment
• Attending a science-based education session
• Signing the State of Michigan Nonmedical Waiver Form (dated January 2024)
• Submitting the certified form to your school
• Medical waivers: A physician must sign the State of Michigan Medical Contraindication Form for students with medical reasons precluding vaccination.

As a microschool operator, your responsibility is to collect and maintain immunization records or valid waiver forms for all students. Keep these on file and available for inspection.

Emergency Preparedness

While Michigan doesn't mandate specific emergency plans for small nonpublic schools, best practices include:

• Fire evacuation procedures and regular drills
• Emergency contact information for all students
• First aid supplies and staff training
• Policies for medical emergencies and parent notification

Background Checks: Zero Tolerance

We touched on this earlier, but it bears repeating: MCL 380.1230a requires criminal background checks for all individuals employed full-time or part-time, or who regularly and continuously work under contract in your school.

Key requirements:

• FBI fingerprint-based check through Michigan State Police
• Completion before employment begins—you cannot allow someone to work while "waiting" for results
• Cost: Approximately $50-$75 per person (paid by school or individual)
• Substitute teachers: If a substitute will work in multiple districts, schools can share background check results with written permission
• Record retention: Store results for at least six years

Process background checks as soon as you hire staff, ideally 60-90 days before your opening date to allow time for processing.

CEPI Reporting: Your Annual Compliance Check

The Center for Educational Performance and Information (CEPI) manages data reporting for Michigan schools, including nonpublic schools. You'll need to submit data through several applications:

1. Nonpublic School Personnel Report (NPSPR)

Every fall, submit information on all employed and contracted personnel. The deadline is the first business day in December. NPSPR data fulfills school safety legislation requirements and feeds into Michigan's education workforce database.

To submit:

• Register for CEPI applications
• Assign at least two authorized users (recommended)
• Complete and submit personnel data by the December deadline

2. Michigan Student Data System (MSDS) - Optional for Most Microschools

Nonpublic schools participating in the National School Lunch Program must submit student roster data through MSDS. If you don't participate in federal meal programs, this reporting is optional.

If you do participate:

• Submit entire student enrollment, including new and existing students
• Data feeds into direct certification reports for free meal eligibility
• Follow the MSDS Nonpublic User Guide

3. Educational Entity Master (EEM) - Optional

This application allows nonpublic schools to register their entity information with CEPI. It's optional but can streamline other reporting processes.

Best practice: Assign a dedicated staff member (or yourself) as the CEPI administrator. Mark December 1st on your calendar every year as the NPSPR deadline. Timely reporting ensures your school remains on Michigan's approved list and avoids compliance questions.

V. Facility Requirements: Where You Operate Matters

Zoning Considerations

Before signing a lease or opening your home to students, check local zoning regulations. Michigan municipalities have varying rules for educational uses:

Residential zoning: Most residential zones do not permit commercial or institutional uses. Operating a microschool from your home may require:

• A conditional use permit or special exception
• Zoning variance approval
• Compliance with home occupation regulations (often limiting size, hours, traffic, and signage)

Commercial/mixed-use zoning: Educational facilities are often permitted in commercial zones, but verify:

• Allowed uses in your specific zoning district
• Parking requirements
• Maximum occupancy limits
• Signage restrictions

Best practice: Contact your local zoning department before committing to a facility. Explain your microschool model (small enrollment, limited hours, educational purpose) and ask about permit requirements. Some municipalities are unfamiliar with microschools and may require education on the difference between a microschool and a large private academy.

Building Codes and Fire Safety

If your facility serves six or more students for four or more hours per day or more than 12 hours per week, Michigan's School Building Law (P.A. 306 of 1937) applies.

This triggers:

Fire Safety Standards

Michigan adopts the 1997 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code as enforced by the Bureau of Fire Services. Your facility must meet:

• Fire alarm system protection with annual servicing by certified providers
• Self-closing mechanisms on stairway doors
• Portable fire extinguishers on each floor level and within 75-foot travel distance
• Emergency lighting and exit signage
• Sprinkler systems (depending on building occupancy classification)

Plan Review Process

For new construction or major renovations:

• Submit complete construction plans sealed by a licensed architect or engineer
• Plans must be reviewed and approved by the Bureau of Fire Services
• Fire alarm and suppression system "shop drawings" must be submitted separately
• Field inspections during construction are required before occupancy approval

Practical tip: If you're launching a small microschool (under 15 students) from an existing building like a church, community center, or commercial space already approved for assembly use, you may inherit existing fire safety approvals. Ask the property owner for documentation of prior fire safety inspections and approvals. You'll likely still need annual servicing of fire systems, but you may avoid the full plan review process.

ADA Accessibility

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to private schools, including microschools. Your facility must provide:

• Accessible entrances and pathways
• Accessible restrooms
• Accommodations for students with disabilities
• Reasonable modifications to policies and practices

For microschools in leased or shared facilities, work with your landlord to ensure ADA compliance. Many churches, community centers, and commercial buildings already meet accessibility standards.

Health and Sanitation

Michigan's health code requires basic sanitation standards for educational facilities:

• Clean, functional restrooms with hot and cold running water
• Handwashing facilities accessible to students and staff
• Safe drinking water
• Proper ventilation and temperature control
• Sanitary food preparation areas (if providing meals or snacks)

Local health departments may inspect facilities serving children. Maintain cleaning schedules and document sanitation procedures.

Liability Insurance: Protect Yourself

While not legally required by Michigan state law, general liability insurance is essential for microschool operators. A policy should cover:

• General liability: Protects against injury or property damage claims
• Professional liability: Covers educational malpractice claims (rare but possible)
• Directors and officers (D&O) coverage: Protects board members in nonprofit schools
• Property coverage: Protects equipment, materials, and facility contents

Expect to pay $500-$2,000 annually for a basic policy covering a small microschool. Specialized education insurance providers understand microschool models and can offer tailored coverage.

Best practice: Secure insurance before opening your doors. Many landlords require proof of liability insurance before leasing space, and families often ask about coverage during enrollment.

VI. Financial and Tax Considerations

Business Structure Tax Implications

Your choice of business entity affects taxation:

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Most microschools start as LLCs because they're simple, flexible, and offer liability protection. Tax implications:

• Default tax treatment: Single-member LLCs are taxed as sole proprietorships; multi-member LLCs as partnerships
• Pass-through taxation: Profits and losses flow to owners' personal tax returns
• Self-employment tax: Owner-operators pay self-employment tax on net income
• No corporate double taxation

For-profit vs. nonprofit LLC: Michigan allows nonprofit LLCs, which can elect tax-exempt status. However, most microschools pursuing tax exemption form as nonprofit corporations (see below).

Nonprofit Corporation

If you want to pursue 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, you must incorporate as a nonprofit:

• No shareholders: Nonprofit corporations have members or a self-perpetuating board, not owners
• Asset lock: Assets must serve the charitable mission; they cannot be distributed to individuals
• Tax benefits: Once IRS-approved, donations are tax-deductible, and the school pays no federal income tax
• State requirements: File nonprofit Articles of Incorporation with Michigan LARA ($60 fee)

501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Status Process

Pursuing federal tax exemption is a multi-step journey:

Step 1: Incorporate as a Nonprofit

File nonprofit Articles of Incorporation with Michigan LARA. Your articles must include:

• Organization name
• Registered agent and office
• Charitable purpose statement
• Asset dissolution clause (required for IRS approval)

Step 2: Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Apply for an EIN through the IRS website (free). You'll need this for banking, hiring, and the 501(c)(3) application.

Step 3: File IRS Form 1023 or 1023-EZ

The IRS offers two paths:

• Form 1023-EZ (Streamlined Application): Faster process (2-4 weeks average) for organizations with gross receipts under $50,000 annually. Cost: $275 filing fee. However, you must complete the Form 1023-EZ Eligibility Worksheet to determine eligibility.
• Form 1023 (Standard Application): More comprehensive application for larger or more complex organizations. Timeline: 3-6 months on average; some take up to a year. The IRS issues 80% of determinations within 191 days. Cost: $600 filing fee.

Both forms must be submitted electronically through Pay.gov.

Step 4: Maintain Compliance

Once approved:

• File annual Form 990 tax returns (even though you're tax-exempt)
• Maintain detailed financial records
• Avoid private benefit or political activities
• Follow state charitable registration requirements

Timeline expectation: If you file Form 1023-EZ and everything is in order, you might receive approval in a month. Standard Form 1023 applications typically take 3-6 months. Plan accordingly—you can operate your school while waiting for IRS approval, but you won't be able to offer tax-deductible donations until the determination letter arrives.

Pro tip: You have 15 months from the date of incorporation to file Form 1023, with a possible 12-month extension. If approved, your tax-exempt status is retroactive to the date of application.

Michigan Funding Opportunities

Michigan has limited direct public funding for private schools due to constitutional prohibitions on aid to nonpublic schools. However, some indirect funding mechanisms exist:

Let MI Kids Learn (Proposed)

The "Let MI Kids Learn" initiative is a citizen-initiated proposal (as of 2021-2022) to create tax-credit education savings accounts. The proposal would:

• Provide dollar-for-dollar tax credits for donations to scholarship-granting organizations
• Allow families to use education savings accounts for private school tuition and educational expenses
• Work around Michigan's constitutional ban on direct aid to private schools

Status: The initiative faced legislative hurdles and may appear on future ballots. Stay informed through the Citizens Research Council of Michigan and education advocacy groups.

Federal Programs

Nonpublic schools can participate in certain federal programs:

• Title I services: Equitable services for low-income students (contact MDE's Equitable Services office)
• Special education services: Some IEP-related services through local districts
• Technology grants: E-Rate and other federal tech programs

Private Fundraising

Most Michigan microschools rely on:

• Tuition revenue from families
• Private donations (tax-deductible if 501(c)(3) approved)
• Grants from private foundations supporting educational innovation
• Fundraising events and sponsorships

Tax Compliance Essentials

Don't overlook these ongoing tax obligations:

Sales Tax Exemption

Good news: Educational services provided by nonprofit schools are exempt from Michigan sales tax. This means:

• Tuition is not subject to sales tax
• Educational materials and supplies purchased for school use may qualify for exemption

To claim exemptions:

• Provide vendors with Michigan Form 3372 (Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption)
• Include a copy of your IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter (if applicable)
• Maintain exemption certificates for at least four years

Employment Taxes

If you hire staff:

• Withhold federal and state income taxes
• Pay federal employment taxes (Social Security, Medicare)
• Register for Michigan unemployment insurance
• File quarterly payroll tax returns

Annual Reporting

Even tax-exempt organizations must file:

• IRS Form 990 (or 990-EZ or 990-N depending on size)
• Michigan Annual Report with LARA ($25 fee annually; due May 15 for nonprofits)

Best practice: Consult with a CPA familiar with nonprofit educational organizations. The upfront investment in professional guidance saves costly mistakes down the road.

VII. Common Pitfalls: What Trips Up Michigan Microschool Founders

Pitfall #1: Confusing Homeschool and Private School Status

The mistake: Many founders start as homeschool cooperatives and unintentionally cross into private school territory without realizing it. They hire teachers, enroll multiple unrelated families, establish set schedules—all while believing they're still "just homeschooling."

The consequence: Operating an unapproved private school can result in truancy complaints, legal disputes with families, and potential liability exposure.

The fix: Be honest about your model from day one. If you're serving multiple families with hired instructors and a structured program, operate as a private school. Complete the registration steps, submit annual reports to MDE, and get on the approved list. The process is straightforward—don't avoid it out of fear or confusion.

Pitfall #2: Neglecting Building Codes and Zoning

The mistake: Founders lease a facility or open their home to students without checking zoning regulations or fire safety requirements. Six months in, they receive a cease-and-desist letter from the local zoning board or fire marshal.

The consequence: Forced relocation, expensive facility modifications, or closure. Some microschools have been shut down mid-year due to zoning violations, leaving families scrambling.

The fix: Before signing any lease or accepting students:

• Contact your local zoning department and explain your intended use
• If the facility serves 6+ students for 4+ hours/day, consult the Bureau of Fire Services
• Budget for fire safety compliance (fire alarms, extinguishers, inspections)
• Get everything in writing—permits, approvals, inspection reports

Pitfall #3: Incomplete or Nonexistent Record-Keeping

The mistake: Operating informally without maintaining attendance records, student files, teacher credentials, or financial documentation. "We're small and informal" becomes an excuse for poor administrative practices.

The consequence: If MDE requests information or a family challenges your program, lack of records undermines your credibility and legal standing. In disputes over truancy or educational adequacy, records are your protection.

The fix: From day one, maintain:

• Daily attendance records for every student
• Student files with enrollment forms, immunization records (or waivers), emergency contacts
• Curriculum documentation showing how you cover required subjects
• Teacher credentials (résumés, degrees, background check confirmations)
• Financial records (if nonprofit, this is legally required)

Use simple systems—shared spreadsheets, Google Drive folders, inexpensive student information systems. The key is consistency.

Pitfall #4: Assuming Teacher Certification Isn't Necessary

The mistake: While Michigan doesn't require teacher certification for nonpublic schools, some founders hire completely unqualified instructors without vetting credentials, experience, or background.

The consequence: Poor educational quality, family dissatisfaction, and potential legal liability if something goes wrong. Even though certification isn't required, families expect competent, trustworthy educators.

The fix: Hire teachers with:

• Relevant subject expertise (degrees, professional experience, demonstrated knowledge)
• Teaching experience (formal or informal)
• Clean background checks (non-negotiable)
• Alignment with your educational philosophy

Document their qualifications. When MDE requests teacher information annually, strong credentials enhance your school's reputation.

Pitfall #5: Ignoring CEPI Reporting Deadlines

The mistake: Missing the CEPI Nonpublic School Personnel Report (NPSPR) deadline (first business day in December). Some founders don't even realize they need to report.

The consequence: Your school may be removed from the MDE approved list. Families may question your legal status. In extreme cases, you could face compliance investigations.

The fix:

• Register for CEPI applications as soon as you open
• Assign two authorized users (in case one is unavailable)
• Set calendar reminders for November to prepare your NPSPR submission
• Submit by December 1st—every single year, no exceptions

VIII. Your Michigan Microschool Launch Checklist

Here's your step-by-step roadmap from idea to opening day:

Phase 1: Legal Foundation (3-6 months before opening)

• [ ] Choose business structure (LLC or nonprofit corporation)
• [ ] File formation documents with Michigan LARA ($50-$60 fee)
• [ ] Obtain Employer Identification Number (EIN) from IRS (free)
• [ ] Open business bank account using EIN
• [ ] If pursuing 501(c)(3): Begin Form 1023 or 1023-EZ application process
• [ ] Draft organizational documents: bylaws, policies, family handbook

Phase 2: Facility and Compliance (2-4 months before opening)

• [ ] Research facility options: home-based, leased commercial, shared space
• [ ] Verify zoning compliance with local municipality
• [ ] Assess building code requirements (if serving 6+ students for 4+ hours/day)
• [ ] Contact Bureau of Fire Services if plan review needed
• [ ] Secure facility through lease or purchase
• [ ] Obtain liability insurance ($500-$2,000/year)
• [ ] Arrange fire safety inspections and install required systems

Phase 3: Curriculum and Staffing (2-3 months before opening)

• [ ] Develop curriculum covering required subjects (math, reading, English, science, social studies)
• [ ] Document scope and sequence for all grade levels you'll serve
• [ ] Hire teachers/instructors with appropriate qualifications
• [ ] Initiate background checks for all staff (MCL 380.1230a)
• [ ] Receive and file background check results (retain for 6+ years)
• [ ] Prepare teacher credential files (résumés, degrees, certifications)

Phase 4: Enrollment and Communication (1-3 months before opening)

• [ ] Create enrollment application and tuition structure
• [ ] Develop marketing materials (website, social media, local outreach)
• [ ] Contact MDE Nonpublic & Home Schools office to introduce your school
• [ ] Begin enrolling students (collect applications, immunization records/waivers, emergency contacts)
• [ ] Hold family orientations and information sessions
• [ ] Finalize class rosters and schedules

Phase 5: Operational Systems (1 month before opening)

• [ ] Set up attendance tracking system (spreadsheet, software, paper records)
• [ ] Create student files for each enrolled student
• [ ] Establish record retention system (attendance, grades, health records, financial documents)
• [ ] Register for CEPI applications (NPSPR at minimum)
• [ ] Assign CEPI authorized users (at least two)
• [ ] Prepare emergency procedures (fire drills, medical emergencies, contact protocols)
• [ ] Stock first aid supplies and train staff on emergency response

Phase 6: Launch (Opening day!)

• [ ] Welcome students and families
• [ ] Begin daily instruction following your documented curriculum
• [ ] Track attendance daily
• [ ] Implement lesson plans aligned with scope and sequence
• [ ] Communicate regularly with families (newsletters, emails, parent meetings)
• [ ] Document educational activities (lesson logs, student work samples, progress reports)

Phase 7: Ongoing Compliance (Throughout the year and beyond)

• [ ] Maintain daily attendance records
• [ ] Submit CEPI NPSPR by December 1st annually
• [ ] Respond to MDE annual information requests
• [ ] Conduct annual fire safety inspections and maintain equipment
• [ ] Renew liability insurance annually
• [ ] File annual reports with Michigan LARA ($25 fee; due May 15 for nonprofits)
• [ ] If 501(c)(3): File IRS Form 990 annually
• [ ] Conduct ongoing background checks for new hires
• [ ] Update curriculum and policies as needed
• [ ] Engage with families through regular communication and feedback

IX. Resources and Official Sources

State Agencies

Michigan Department of Education (MDE)

• Nonpublic & Home Schools Office: michigan.gov/mde/services/flexible-learning/options/nonpub-home
• MDE Contact Page: michigan.gov/mde/contact-us
• Equitable Services Ombudsman: Dr. Chanel DeGuzman, DeGuzmanC@michigan.gov, 517-241-5391

Center for Educational Performance and Information (CEPI)

• Nonpublic Schools Portal: michigan.gov/cepi/nonpub
• CEPI Applications: michigan.gov/cepi (Application Registration)

Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)

• Business Formation (Corporations Division): michigan.gov/lara (Corporations Online Filing)
• Bureau of Fire Services: ARS Public - Bureau of Fire Services

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)

• Immunization Requirements for Schools: michigan.gov/mdhhs (School Immunizations)
• Local Health Department Waiver Information: michigan.gov/mdhhs (LHD Waivers)

Legal Statutes

• MCL 380.1561: Compulsory School Attendance Law
• MCL 380.1230a: Criminal Background Checks for School Employees
• MCL 388.553: Teacher Qualifications in Nonpublic Schools
• U.S. Department of Education - Michigan Private School Regulations: ed.gov (MI State Regulations)

Professional Organizations

• Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools (MANS): Search online for current contact information; MANS provides advocacy, networking, and resources for nonpublic schools in Michigan
• Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA): hslda.org - Provides legal guidance for homeschool families and microschools operating as cooperatives

Federal Resources

• IRS - 501(c)(3) Application:
• Form 1023 (Standard Application)
• Form 1023-EZ (Streamlined Application)
• Application Status Tracker
• IRS - Employer Identification Number (EIN): irs.gov (Apply for EIN)

Insurance and Local Resources

• General Liability Insurance: Search for education-specific insurance brokers or nonprofits specializing in small school coverage
• Local Zoning Departments: Contact your city or township clerk's office for zoning information
• Local Health Departments: Find your county health department for immunization waiver assistance and facility health inspections

X. Conclusion: Launch Your Michigan Microschool with Confidence

Starting a microschool in Michigan is both an exciting opportunity and a significant responsibility. The good news? Michigan's regulatory framework for nonpublic schools is relatively straightforward compared to many states. You don't need state pre-approval or licensing fees before opening your doors. You don't need certified teachers (though qualified educators are still essential). And you have significant freedom in curriculum design and educational philosophy, as long as you cover the core subjects.

Here's what you absolutely must get right:

1. Understand the private school distinction: If you're teaching other people's children in a structured program, you're operating a private school—not a homeschool cooperative. Embrace this designation and comply accordingly.
2. Complete background checks: Non-negotiable. Every staff member must have FBI fingerprint clearance before working with students.
3. Cover required subjects: Math, reading, English, science, social studies—in every grade. Document your curriculum clearly.
4. Verify facility compliance: Zoning, building codes, and fire safety regulations apply. Don't skip this step.
5. Submit annual CEPI reports: The NPSPR deadline (December 1st) is your ticket to the MDE approved schools list. Set reminders and prioritize this.
6. Maintain meticulous records: Attendance, student files, teacher credentials, financials—document everything. Records protect you legally and demonstrate professionalism.

Michigan offers a unique advantage for microschool founders: a regulatory environment that respects educational innovation while maintaining basic accountability. You're free to design a transformative learning experience without bureaucratic roadblocks. But that freedom comes with responsibility—to operate legally, safely, and transparently.

Your next steps:

• Review this guide and bookmark key resources
• Decide on your business structure and file formation documents
• Draft a compliance timeline using the launch checklist
• Contact MDE to introduce your school and ask questions
• Join Michigan microschool and homeschool networks for community support

Remember: thousands of families in Michigan are searching for alternatives to traditional schooling. They want small, personalized learning environments where their children are known, challenged, and supported. If you build your microschool on a foundation of legal compliance, educational excellence, and operational integrity, you'll attract families who share your vision.

Ready to take the next step? Start by forming your legal entity and reaching out to the MDE Nonpublic & Home Schools office. Your microschool journey begins with a single decision: to turn your vision into reality, by the book.

You've got this. Michigan's kids need what you're building.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Michigan microschool regulations as of 2025. It is not legal advice. Consult with an attorney and accountant familiar with Michigan education law and nonprofit regulations for guidance specific to your situation.

Disclaimer: This guide provides educational information about Michigan 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.