Many families that homeschool their high school students choose distance learning programs that allow their children to take classes completely online. By logging into an online program, parents and students are able to access textbooks, assignments and tests, as well as track grades and correspond with professional teachers who are available to assist students with questions regarding assignments or grades. This homeschooling option allows teens to access their assignments at anytime of day, allowing for a more flexible schedule for students who work or participate in extracurricular activities. Although most distance-learning programs average between $1,000 and $3,000 annually, most offer convenient payment plan options for homeschool families.
When people think of homeschooling, socialization is often a concern. Many homeschool families meet regularly with other homeschoolers at co-ops, programs designed to give children an opportunity to participate in parent-taught classes, field trips, parties, dances and even graduation ceremonies. In many co-ops, students are able to take academic courses as well as elective classes such as dance, martial arts, cooking or physical education. This is a budget-friendly option for parents and a fun way for kids to socialize.
Some homeschool families don't like the idea of being completely responsible for keeping records of their student's assignments and grades. High school umbrella programs give parents the option to allow their children to complete assignments at home at their own pace and send in completed work for grading by a professional teacher. All grades are consolidated and a transcript is available upon graduation or exiting the program. Most programs require a low to moderate fee to provide this service.
Attendance at area community colleges has become increasingly popular among homeschooling families of high school students. During their junior and senior years of high school, students take academic courses through participating colleges, earning both high school and college credit simultaneously. This option reduces the number of courses students need to complete during their freshman year of college. In most states, a limited number of credit hours are available to students at little to no cost.