Are You Freaking Out About Homeschooling High School?
Relax and Let’s Talk About Outsourcing…
One of the reasons I co-founded Homeschool Connections with Walter Crawford was that I saw a troubling trend in my local homeschool community. As their children approached high school, many moms reluctantly put them into site-based schools. Not because they wanted to stop homeschooling, but because they felt like they had no other choice. They were overwhelmed by the thought of tackling high school-level subjects alone. They felt isolated and underqualified.
That’s precisely why, in the beginning, we focused on tough subjects, such as Latin, writing, physics, and calculus. We wanted to give parents the support, tools, and confidence they needed to continue homeschooling through high school—if that’s what they wanted. Our goal has always been to empower, not overwhelm.
Are you staring down the idea of homeschooling high school and feeling your pulse rise? In today’s article, I want to introduce all of the options available to you for high school, not just Homeschool Connections…
Feeling the High School Panic?
You’re not alone. Many of us parents hit this stage and suddenly start worrying about transcripts, advanced courses, college prep, and whether we’re “qualified” to teach it all. The good news is that you don’t have to do it all by yourself. Outsourcing is not only possible, it’s a smart way to give your teen access to expert instruction while still keeping the heart of homeschooling intact.
Begin, as always, with prayer. Then take a deep breath, relax, and read on…
Yes, You Can Outsource High School (or Part of It)
One of the benefits of homeschooling is its flexibility. And that extends to how you deliver coursework. Outsourcing doesn’t mean completely handing over your homeschool to someone else. It means strategically bringing in outside resources to support your teen’s education while you remain the guiding hand.
Even when you outsource coursework, you’re still the homeschool parent. That means you oversee the big picture, track your student’s progress, and ensure the coursework aligns with your goals. A quick weekly check-in with your teen’s planner can make all the difference in keeping things on track.
Research Your Options
Before you sign your teen up for outside classes, take time to research your options. Look for quality programs, check reviews, and talk to other homeschool families who’ve used them. Involve your teen in the decision-making process so they feel invested.
Different ways to outsource include:
- Online Classes: Platforms like Homeschool Connections offer live and recorded courses with expert instructors.
- Dual or Concurrent Enrollment: An option for upper-level high school students ready for college-level work.
- Local Co-Ops: Small group classes taught by parents or hired teachers in your community.
- Private Tutors: Need to outsource one or two tough subjects and have a great local contact? This may be an option for you.
- Clubs and Enrichment: Teen book clubs, debate teams, sports, music, or art groups can provide both learning and social connection.
- Accountability Mentoring: A mentor can help your teen stay on track with goals and deadlines. You could find a local mentor or connect with a professional homeschool mentoring service.
- Full Home Study Schools: Some parents outsource everything through a home study school. Even then, you may be able to adjust the curriculum or add extracurriculars to make it your own.
Your Role When Outsourcing
Outsourcing frees you from teaching every single subject, but it doesn’t remove your role as home educator. You’ll still need to:
- Review your teen’s schedule and assignments regularly.
- Provide encouragement and accountability.
- Make sure the curriculum meets your family’s academic goals and faith values.
- Supplement with activities or resources to enrich the learning experience.
- Engage with your local in-person community for social, academic, and/or faith pursuits.
Include Your Teen in Planning the School Year
Involving your teen in the planning process is one of the best ways to promote ownership and engagement in their high school education. When teens have a voice in shaping their academic path, even if it’s just choosing between a few options, you invite them to take responsibility for their learning. This sense of ownership builds confidence, motivation, and a stronger commitment. It can help transform school from something that’s done to them into something they actively pursue.
As the parent, you still have the final say, but it’s vital to listen closely to your teen’s input…
- Ask how they feel they learn best. Is there a time of day when they’re more motivated?
- Do they prefer reading, Socratic discussion, multi-sensory activities, and/or online video instruction?
- Find out where they feel strong and where they struggle.
- Explore what subjects spark their curiosity.
- If there’s a subject they dread, help them find a new approach.
By showing your teen that their viewpoint matters, you’re not just making homeschooling high school more effective. You’re also nurturing a lifelong learner.
Outsourcing Without Losing the Heart of Homeschooling
Homeschooling high school doesn’t mean you have to carry every subject, every assignment, and every expectation all by yourself. By strategically outsourcing—whether it’s one course, a few electives, or the entire academic load—you can give your teen a richer, more varied learning experience without burning yourself out.
The key is staying engaged. Oversee the process, guide curriculum choices, and keep communication flowing. With the right mix of outside resources and your personal leadership, you can create a high school experience that builds confidence, prepares your teen for the future, and strengthens your relationship along the way. You’ve got this, and you don’t have to do it alone!
What are your tips or questions about homeschooling high school? Join me and other homeschooling parents in the Homeschool Connections Facebook Group or in the HSC Community to continue the conversation.
