High School and Beyond

It's never too early. Planning ahead during the elementary years helps to create a smooth transition into the high school years. Below are some important steps to take to help you learn more.

Planning Sessions, Workshops and Webinars

• Attend a Homeschooling High School 101 workshop. If you are unable to attend in person, you can also view a recorded version of the Homeschooling High School 101 workshop at your convenience.

• Browse videos and webinars on the topic of high school and beyond. (Be sure to scroll down)

•  Learn the Importance of a High School Transcript with HOME's transcript course.

• Schedule a Preparing for High School and Beyond Planning Session.  Those looking ahead to the high school years, as well as those nearing the finish line, often have new questions and concerns. Planning sessions are available throughout the year to all those       seeking guidance in homeschooling high schoolers, preparing transcripts, etc.  

• HOME Supporters receive one planning session FREE! 

• For more information, please feel free to call the HOME Office.

• Contact a HOME Coach for even more support!  

Preparing for High School and Post High School Resources at HSLDA 

• Visit the Homeschooling Thru High School pages on HSLDA's website to find information and encouragement for teaching high school aged children. Be sure to join HSLDA for the full benefit. You will find: 

- Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs)

- Curriculum resource lists and links

- Record keeping and transcript resources

- Testing resources

- College admissions information

- And much more...  

• In addition, consider watching this free webinar from HSLDA: "Your Grads Future Plans." Panelists include HSLDA High School Consultant Carol Becker (mom to two homeschool college grads), and Fifth Avenue Brands CEO and entrepreneur Richard Lorenzen (homeschool grad). 

English/Language Arts (literature, composition, grammar, vocabulary) - 4 credits

History/Social Studies (geography, U.S. and world history, government, economics) - 3 credits

Mathematics (algebra, geometry, consumer math, trigonometry, calculus) - 3 credits

Science (physical science, earth science, biology, chemistry, anatomy, physics) - 3 credits

Physical Education - 1 credit

Health - 1 credit

Fine Arts (art, music, drama, photography) - 1 credit

Computer Proficiency - 1 credit 

Maine Studies (if Maine Studies was not completed in grades 6, 7, or 8) - 1 credit

Electives (Bible, home economics, life skills, typing, woodworking) - 6 credits  

* Please Note: All subjects required by Maine's homeschool statute must be covered each year. 

Maine's Early College Programs give high school students a jumpstart on college, an opportunity for dual enrollment and dual crediting (gaining both high school and college credit at the same time) and classroom experience!

What is dual enrollment? High school students can take college courses and earn both high school and college credit at the same time! Credits earned apply toward both a high school diploma and a college degree.

During the high school years, homeschoolers have access to free or low-cost college courses through the University of Maine System, the Maine Community College System, and Maine Maritime Academy. There are six requirements: 

1. The student’s educational program must meet Maine’s legal requirements for home instruction.

2. The college must have space in the classroom for the student.

3. The student must have completed all course prerequisites.

4. The student must submit such evidence of academic fitness as the college may request.

5. The student must receive the college’s approval of the student’s academic fitness.

6. All students must file a letter of intent and annual assessment results, even if they have reached the 17th birthday, in order to participate in early college courses. 

* Please Note: Students attending Equivalent Instruction Private Schools (sometimes called “Recognized for Attendance Purposes Private Schools" or “Nonapproved Private Schools”) are NOT considered to be homeschoolers and are NOT eligible for the free Early College Program, per Maine statute, even if they are being schooled at home through their Equivalent Instruction Private School. To participate in the free early college program, be sure to file a homeschool Letter of Intent (or Subsequent Letter).

To find out more about Maine's Early College Programs, visit Early College Programs. 

In addition, several private colleges and universities in Maine also offer free or reduced-tuition early college courses to high school students. Please check with the specific private college or university if you are interested in finding out if they offer a similar program.

Be sure to watch this informative webinar, too:

• How to Leverage Early College for your Post-secondary Education is an informative webinar, featuring UMA, UMaine and UMaine Machias Early College Directors, Rachael Magill, Kari Suderley, and Christy Alley. Together they team up to present an informative session on Early College Enrollment. 

Whether you are planning on college or not, career exploration should be an essential part of any high school program. Check out HOME's Getting Ready for Careers page for resources to help you explore the endless possibilities.

Check out HOME's Getting Ready for College page for an additional list of valuable resources for high school students considering college.

Are you looking for a gap year, dual credit, or a full college experience? Ascend can accommodate you!

Ascend by Unbound is an intense college experience designed to catalyze, enable, and energize Christian homeschoolers. Ascend students don’t just get access to an air-tight academic plan to earn a bachelor’s degree, they become leaders and innovators with a world-class community that has their back.

Whether your student is in the program for one year or four, your student will get leadership opportunities, Christian community, registration and travel to live events, and rock-solid academics. Plans are flexible from 9-30 college credits per year. 

HOME families get $150 off enrollment! Apply or schedule an appointment today!

Good record keeping is important for your child's future, so be sure to consider the following:

• Graduation Requirements - There are no specific graduation or credit requirements for homeschooled students in Maine! Beyond complying with the homeschool statute until the 17th birthday, families are free to determine the best overall course of study for their student during the high school years. Families will determine when the course of study has been completed, create a transcript and grant a diploma. Copies of these records and documents do not need to be submitted to the state or local superintendent but should be safely stored by you for your child's future needs.

• College Admissions Requirements - If college is (or could be) part of future plans, it will be important to look at what specific college admissions requirements are for any colleges that may be of interest. That way, a child's high school course work can be tailored to meet those requirements. This article will help you to plan ahead and provide you with some general course recommendations.

• Transcripts - A transcript is the most important academic record of what a student has accomplished throughout their high school career. Every child should have one! Learn more about creating a transcript.                                                                                                               

• Course Descriptions - Some colleges require course descriptions in addition to your student's transcript. By keeping a portfolio throughout the high school years, and completing your annual assessment through HOME's portfolio reviews, you will have what you need should a college require descriptions.                                                                                                                             
• Assigning Credit - Give yourself and your student credit for learning outside-the-box! HOME's Out of the Box Credits webinar offers ways you can give and get credit for middle to high school student learning experiences that don’t look like traditional, behind-a-desk learning. Register here and a link and password will be sent to you.

• Diplomas - Yes, you can and should grant your child a diploma! Find out more about homeschool diplomas here,

• Common Core and Graduation - Homeschoolers are NOT required to follow the Common Core. Read more about Equivalent Instruction and Common Core in Maine.

When you've finished the course, be sure to mark the occasion!

•  Join us for HOME's Annual Graduation Ceremony! If you have a young adult who will be finishing their high school program this year, consider participating in HOME's statewide graduation ceremony! 

• Graduation Supplies and High School Diplomas