Homeschooling your teen during their high school years can be a rewarding yet challenging experience. If you’re considering taking this educational route, you likely have many questions about how it all works and what’s involved.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Homeschooling high schoolers involves setting a curriculum, keeping records, arranging socialization opportunities, and possibly taking standardized tests.
Most states have few regulations for homeschoolers but require some form of assessment.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of homeschooling through the high school years, including developing a curriculum, record-keeping requirements, options for socialization and extracurriculars, college preparedness, and more.
Read on for everything you need to know about making homeschooling work for your teen.
Creating a High School Curriculum
When it comes to homeschooling in high school, creating a well-rounded curriculum is essential for ensuring a comprehensive education. This involves selecting core academic subjects, incorporating elective courses, setting a flexible schedule, and utilizing online resources and curricula.
Core academic subjects
Just like in a traditional high school setting, it’s important for homeschoolers to cover the core academic subjects: English, mathematics, science, and social studies. Parents can choose from a variety of textbooks, workbooks, and online resources to teach these subjects effectively.
It is also beneficial to consider state requirements or college entrance requirements when designing the curriculum.
Electives
One of the advantages of homeschooling in high school is the flexibility to tailor the curriculum to the student’s interests and goals. Electives can be a great way to explore new subjects, nurture talents, or delve deeper into a specific area of study.
Popular elective choices include foreign languages, fine arts, computer science, physical education, and vocational courses. By including electives, homeschoolers can create a well-rounded education that aligns with their individual interests and aspirations.
Setting a schedule
Establishing a schedule is crucial for homeschooling success. While homeschooling allows for flexibility, having a consistent routine helps students stay focused and ensures that all subjects are covered adequately.
Parents can create a daily or weekly schedule that includes designated study times for each subject, breaks, and extracurricular activities. It’s important to find a balance between structure and flexibility to cater to the student’s learning style and needs.
Online resources and curricula
The internet offers a wealth of resources and curricula that can be utilized to enhance the homeschooling experience. There are many reputable websites and online platforms that provide interactive lessons, video tutorials, educational games, and virtual laboratories.
Some popular online resources for homeschooling high school include Khan Academy, Coursera, and edX. These platforms offer a wide range of courses and subjects, allowing students to explore various topics and expand their knowledge beyond what traditional textbooks can offer.
Record Keeping and Assessment Requirements
Documentation needed for your state
When homeschooling in high school, it is important to keep thorough records of your child’s education. Each state has different requirements, so it is crucial to familiarize yourself with your state’s regulations.
Some common documentation needed may include attendance records, lesson plans, and examples of student work. It’s a good idea to check with your local homeschooling association or department of education to ensure you are meeting all necessary requirements.
Standardized testing options
Standardized testing is often required in high school, even for homeschoolers. These tests provide an objective measure of a student’s academic progress and can be used to compare their performance with their peers.
Some states mandate specific tests, while others allow homeschooling families to choose from a range of options. The most commonly used standardized tests for homeschoolers are the ACT and SAT. These tests not only fulfill assessment requirements but can also be used for college admissions.
It’s essential to research the testing options available in your state and register your child for the appropriate exams.
Building a transcript
Creating a transcript is a crucial step in homeschooling high school. A transcript is a document that summarizes your child’s academic achievements, including courses taken, grades received, and extracurricular activities.
It provides a comprehensive overview of their education and is often required for college admissions. When building a transcript, you should include a list of all subjects studied, the number of credits earned for each course, and the final grades obtained.
It’s important to keep accurate and detailed records throughout high school to ensure an accurate and impressive transcript.
Tracking extracurriculars
Extracurricular activities play a vital role in a student’s high school experience. They provide opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and community involvement. When homeschooling, it’s essential to track your child’s extracurricular activities and include them in their transcript.
This can include participation in sports teams, clubs, volunteer work, part-time jobs, or any other activities that demonstrate their interests and abilities. Not only does tracking extracurriculars provide a well-rounded education, but it also showcases your child’s character and commitment to potential colleges or employers.
For more information on homeschooling record keeping and assessment requirements, you can visit www.hslda.org. They provide helpful resources and guidance for homeschooling families.
Socialization and Extracurricular Opportunities
One common concern for parents considering homeschooling their high school-aged children is the potential lack of socialization and extracurricular opportunities. However, there are several ways in which homeschoolers can engage with their peers and participate in various activities outside of their home environment.
In-person activities
Homeschooling does not mean isolating students from the outside world. In fact, many homeschooling families actively seek opportunities for their high schoolers to interact with other students. Local homeschooling groups often organize regular meet-ups, field trips, and social events where students can come together and forge friendships.
These in-person activities provide a chance for homeschoolers to socialize, collaborate, and learn from their peers in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Online groups and clubs
With the rise of technology, homeschoolers now have access to a wide range of online groups and clubs that cater specifically to their interests. Whether it’s a virtual book club, a debate team, or a coding club, these online communities allow high school students to connect with like-minded individuals from around the world.
Through online interactions, students can discuss ideas, collaborate on projects, and develop valuable skills while forming new friendships.
Volunteer work
Engaging in volunteer work is not only a great way for high schoolers to give back to their communities but also an opportunity to meet new people and expand their social network. Homeschoolers can take advantage of their flexible schedules to volunteer at local organizations, participate in community service projects, or even join national/international volunteering programs.
Volunteering not only provides socialization opportunities but also allows students to develop empathy, leadership skills, and a sense of civic responsibility.
Part-time employment
Another avenue for socialization and extracurricular involvement for homeschoolers is part-time employment. Many high school-aged homeschoolers take up part-time jobs in their communities, allowing them to interact with coworkers, customers, and supervisors.
Part-time employment not only provides a chance to socialize but also teaches important life skills such as time management, responsibility, and financial literacy.
Did you know? According to a study conducted by the National Home Education Research Institute, homeschoolers who engage in extracurricular activities and socialize with peers regularly tend to have higher self-esteem and better social skills compared to their traditionally schooled counterparts.
Preparing for College
Preparing for college is an important step for high school students, including those who are homeschooled. While homeschooling provides flexibility and personalized learning experiences, it is crucial to ensure that homeschooled students are well-prepared for the college admissions process.
This involves taking standardized tests, building a strong college application, earning college credits, and finding scholarships.
Taking the SAT/ACT
One of the first steps in preparing for college is taking the SAT or ACT. These standardized tests are widely accepted by colleges and universities as part of the admissions process. Homeschooled students can register for these exams and take them at designated testing centers.
It is important for students to familiarize themselves with the content and format of these tests by utilizing online resources, practice exams, and study guides. Additionally, some states or colleges may require homeschooled students to submit additional documentation, such as a portfolio or transcript, to supplement their test scores.
Building a College Application
Building a strong college application is essential for homeschooled students. Admissions officers evaluate applicants based on various factors, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays.
To strengthen their application, homeschooled students can participate in community service, join clubs or organizations, and pursue internships or part-time jobs. Additionally, creating a comprehensive homeschool transcript that includes course descriptions, textbooks used, and grades earned can provide admissions officers with a clearer understanding of the student’s academic achievements.
Earning College Credits in High School
Homeschooled students have the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. This can be done through various means, such as dual enrollment programs, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, or College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams.
Dual enrollment allows students to take college-level courses at a local community college or university, earning both high school and college credits. AP courses provide rigorous curriculum and culminate in an exam that, if passed, can earn students college credit.
CLEP exams allow students to demonstrate their knowledge in specific subjects and potentially earn college credit without taking a course.
Finding Scholarships
Securing financial aid is an important aspect of preparing for college. Homeschooled students have access to numerous scholarships specifically designed for them. Websites such as Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and College Board offer extensive databases of scholarships that homeschooled students can apply for.
Additionally, local community organizations, homeschool support groups, and colleges themselves may offer scholarships specifically for homeschoolers. It is important for homeschooled students to research and apply for these opportunities to alleviate the financial burden of college tuition.
Conclusion
Homeschooling through the high school years is a big commitment, but also an incredibly rewarding experience. With careful planning, strong organization, and insights from other homeschooling families, you can feel confident in providing your teen with an engaging education at home.
Stay focused on your student’s interests and learning styles, seek out socialization opportunities, and make sure to meet any assessment requirements for your state. Most importantly, appreciate the chance to nurture your highschooler’s curiosity and passions during such formative years.
With the right approach, homeschooling in high school can set your teen up for success in higher education and beyond.
