Switching from Homeschool to Public or Private High School-What You Need to Know

Making the decision to switch your student from homeschooling to public or private high school is not a small one. Whether you’re seeking structure, specific courses, social opportunities, sports, or simply exploring what’s best for your child, this transition comes with a mix of logistics and emotions. Here’s what Colorado families need to know—and some things to reflect on—before making the leap.

Start with Good Records

When entering a public high school (with high school coursework already completed) from a homeschool background, your student’s records are essential.

Be prepared with:

• A detailed transcript showing subjects, grades, and completion dates.

• Course descriptions or syllabi.

• Standardized test scores, evaluations, or samples of work (if available).

  
  

These help the school assess appropriate placement and award credit for work already completed.

Colorado State Law and Transcript Acceptance When Switching from Homeschool to Public High School

By law, public schools in Colorado must accept homeschool transcripts for credit unless they administer testing that shows the transcripts are inaccurate. Most schools are unaware of this, though so you need to be prepared to share the state statute with them (linked below). Schools may also test a student for grade-level placement, which must be done with parent or guardian consent. This gives you the opportunity to advocate for your child and ensure they’re not being placed arbitrarily. See section 4 of the Homeschool Law.

Timing and Communication Matter

The easiest time to make the shift is at the start of 9th grade. If your child is further along in high school, there may be more scrutiny of past work—and possibly gaps to fill—so it’s best to begin conversations early.

Reach out to the school well ahead of time to:

• Understand their placement and credit policies.

• Schedule any necessary testing or meetings.

• Submit required paperwork like immunization records and proof of residency.

  
  

This will help avoid last-minute stress and surprises.

Prepare Your Student for a New Learning Environment

The transition from learning at home to a structured school day is a big one. Ease the shift by helping your student practice:

• Time management and transitioning between subjects.

• Taking notes, completing timed assignments, and preparing for quizzes or exams.

• Navigating multiple teachers, group projects, and different classroom dynamics.

Encouraging a growth mindset and open communication during this phase will go a long way.

Don’t Assume You Need to Enroll Full-Time

Before making a full transition to public school, be sure to explore all the alternative options that may better meet your student’s needs without giving up homeschooling entirely:

• Dual Enrollment: Many homeschoolers take college courses for both high school and college credit.

• Online Classes: There are excellent online programs and virtual schools offering rigorous courses with outside instructors.

• Part-Time Enrollment: Some homeschoolers enroll in individual classes, such as science, math, or electives.

  
  

If your student is struggling in just one or two areas—or wants to explore a subject more deeply—these options offer targeted support without requiring a full shift to public school.

Homeschoolers Can Still Play High School Sports

One of the most common reasons families consider public school is access to sports or extracurricular activities. But in Colorado, homeschoolers are legally allowed to participate in public school sports and activities under CHSAA guidelines.

That means your student can join the high school team, band, or theater production without being enrolled full-time.

👉 Read our post about how homeschoolers can participate in sports and extracurriculars here.

👉 If your student wants to play in sports in college, it is critical you understand NCAA requirements for homeschoolers. Get more information about that here.

This gives families the flexibility to customize their student’s education while still enjoying the benefits of a school community.

Support the Transition With Strong Parental Involvement

If you do choose full-time enrollment, your engagement matters. Show up. Ask questions. Stay in touch with counselors and teachers. Monitor how your child is adjusting both academically and emotionally. You’re still their most important advocate, and staying involved will help make the transition smoother.

But First, Take Time to Reflect…

Many families consider public school during the high school years, especially when academics become more advanced or when outside influences seem more appealing. And while those feelings are valid, it’s important to pause and remember: You absolutely can homeschool high school—and it might just be one of the most meaningful experiences you share with your teen. Are you wondering if you can really homeschool high school? The answer is yes. For helpful insight on homeschooling high school check out the following episodes of our podcast*:

Season 4 episode 6

Season 3 episode 22

Season 3 episode 20

Season 3 episode 19

Season 3 episode 18

Season 3 episode 17

Season 3 episode 16

Season 3 episode 15

Season 3 episode 3

Season 2 episode 12

*There are many more episodes where we talk about homeschooling high school, be sure to read through the show titles to look specifically for what you need help with.

The high school years are a time of deep growth—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Being present for those lightbulb moments, the late-night conversations, the shifting perspectives, and the blossoming independence is something no curriculum or school system can replicate.

Homeschooling high school fosters deep, lasting bonds as you walk alongside your student through big ideas, character formation, and the transition into adulthood. Yes, it takes commitment. But if you’re willing, it’s absolutely doable—and incredibly rewarding.

It’s also easy to believe the idea that high school might be “better” if it’s done by someone else. But remember why you started homeschooling. What was your vision? What mattered most to your family? Sometimes the allure of “letting someone else handle it” is rooted in exhaustion or fear, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best solution.

Also—be realistic about what high school actually looks like today. It’s not what it was when you were a student. The glossy marketing, the teen dramas and musicals, and the back-to-school commercials don’t show the full picture. Schools today face real challenges, and your student may be exposed to cultural pressures or environments that don’t align with your family’s values.

If you do choose to enroll your student in public school, set boundaries. Check in regularly. And most importantly, give yourself permission to reverse course if it’s not a good fit. You are not locked in.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning from homeschool to public high school is possible—and legal safeguards ensure your work as a homeschool parent is respected. But before you make the switch, take time to reflect on your reasons, your long-term goals, and the beautiful things you’d be walking away from.

With the right support and flexibility, you can build an education path that honors your student’s needs and your family’s values—whether that includes full-time public school, part-time classes, or staying the course as a homeschooler.