Colorado Laws and Requirements for Homeschool

In Colorado, homeschooling is a legal alternative to public or private school. Parents must comply with state laws to ensure their homeschool meets educational standards.

Pathways to Homeschool Legally in Colorado

There are three ways to homeschool in Colorado:

  1. Independent Homeschooling Under the Notice of Intent Law

    • Parents file a Notice of Intent (NOI) with a school district at least 14 days before beginning homeschooling.
    • The NOI must include:
      • Student’s name, age, address, and grade level.
    • The notice is submitted annually.

  2. Enroll in an Independent School

    • Parents may enroll their child in an independent school that oversees the homeschooling process.
    • These schools often provide resources, curriculum assistance, and record-keeping services.

  3. Homeschool with a Certified Teacher

    • Homeschooling may be conducted under the supervision of a Colorado-certified teacher who evaluates the student’s progress.

Instructional Requirements

Parents homeschooling independently must meet the following requirements:

  • Subject Areas: Teach core subjects, including:
    • Reading
    • Writing
    • Speaking
    • Mathematics
    • History
    • Civics
    • Literature
    • Science
    • Constitution of the United States
  • Days and Hours: Provide at least 172 days of instruction per school year, with 4 contact hours per day.

Assessments and Records

  • Standardized Testing or Evaluations:
    • Students must take a nationally standardized achievement test or receive a professional evaluation in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11.
    • Scores must demonstrate progress in line with national standards.
    • Testing can be conducted by parents, independent schools, or public schools.
  • Record-Keeping:
    • Parents must maintain permanent records, including:
      • Attendance.
      • Test results or evaluations.
      • Immunization records (or waiver).

Graduation and Diplomas

  • Colorado does not issue homeschool diplomas.
  • Parents can issue a diploma upon the student’s completion of a homeschool program.
  • Students may also opt for a GED credential if desired.

Reentering Public School

  • Students transferring from a homeschool program to a public school will be assessed for proper grade placement and credit assignment.
  • Parents should keep detailed records of coursework to ease the process.

Additional Information and Resources

  • Colorado Department of Education (CDE): Official guidelines for homeschooling.
  • CHEC (Christian Home Educators of Colorado): Support groups, conferences, and curriculum advice.
  • HSLDA (Home School Legal Defense Association): Legal support for homeschool families.
  • Independent School Networks: Assistance in curriculum planning and compliance.

Key Points

  • File a Notice of Intent or use one of the alternative homeschooling methods.
  • Provide instruction in required subjects for 172 days/year.
  • Administer standardized tests or evaluations in designated grades.
  • Homeschool families enjoy flexibility but must adhere to assessment and record-keeping laws.

Colorado’s homeschooling laws offer families the ability to tailor education to their child’s needs while ensuring academic accountability.

 

Colorado Department of Education