Graduation/Diploma

[mdhomescool]

For those with homeschool students approaching graduation, the following would be of interest to you.

As of now, nonpublic entities registered to supervise homeschooling in Maryland can not issue diplomas. It doesn't directly say that though. But one has to assume that they can not according to the following. Here's the link to home instructions about graduation in Maryland http://www.marylandpublicschools.org/MS ... uction.htm

How can a home-schooled student receive a diploma?

If the home-schooled student returns to a public school and meets their secondary school graduation requirements, yes, the student may receive a Maryland issued state diploma.

If the home-schooled student returns to a nonpublic or church-exempt school and meet’s that school’s secondary school graduation requirements, the student may receive a diploma issued by that school’s legal authority. Note: COMAR 13A.09.09.09E states that the diploma of a nonpublic secondary school may not imply that the requirements for graduation from a Maryland public secondary school have been met.

Another alternative for the home-schooled student is to successfully complete the General Educational Development (GED) test and be issued a GED by the Maryland State Department of Education. For more information regarding GED contact the General Educational Development office at (410) 767-0538.


You might also be interested in the following links.
FAQs about graduation in Maryland: http://www.marylandpublicschools.org/NR ... 052407.pdf
List of registered nonpublic entities to supervise homeschooling: http://www.msde.state.md.us/nonpublic/h ... County.asp
Interesting article about how PA nonpublic entities that supervise homeschooling are able to issue diplomas to homeschooled students: http://www.home-school.com/Articles/Hom ... lomas.html

[daylady2]

There are a number of homeschool umbrellas in Maryland that are sponsored by churches that also issue diplomas. The main concern regarding diplomas for homeschool students isn't whether or not it is an "official" State of Maryland diploma, but more importantly whether or not the organization issuing the diploma maintains records and is able to issue official transcripts to colleges or employers.

Though the GED is an alternative, it is generally viewed as being less than a diploma and should only be pursued as a last resort.

[mdhomescool]

Thank you for the clarification, daylady2!


I could not find anything on the state board of education regarding homeschool umbrellas that could issue diplomas/transcripts. Would you mind posting the homeschool umbrellas that issue diplomas? Also, it would be great if you could provide literature (links, pdf, etc.) that says certain state approved nonpublic entities supervising homeschooling CAN issue diplomas. I think a lot of us that have young children (myself included) or new to homeschooling with students approaching graduation would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks, again!

[mommawith4]

Churchvile Chrstian School gives Diploma's and transcipts...