How to Start Homeschooling in Denver

Homeschooling has experienced a significant surge in popularity across the United States, and Denver, Colorado, is no exception. Families in the Denver metro area are increasingly choosing homeschooling as a flexible, personalized, and values-driven alternative to traditional public or private schooling. Whether you’re drawn to homeschooling for academic excellence, spiritual guidance, social-emotional well-being, or the desire to tailor learning to your child’s unique pace and interests, starting this journey in Denver offers both opportunities and responsibilities.

Denver’s vibrant cultural landscape, access to world-class museums, outdoor education resources, and strong homeschooling community make it one of the most supportive cities in the country for families pursuing alternative education. However, navigating the legal requirements, selecting curricula, building a learning environment, and connecting with like-minded families can feel overwhelming without clear direction.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every essential step to start homeschooling in Denver—from understanding Colorado’s legal framework to designing a rich, engaging educational experience tailored to your child’s needs. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear roadmap, trusted resources, and real-world examples to confidently begin your homeschooling journey in the Mile High City.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand Colorado’s Homeschooling Laws

Before you begin teaching at home, it’s critical to understand the legal obligations set forth by the State of Colorado. Unlike some states with stringent oversight, Colorado offers one of the most parent-friendly homeschooling frameworks in the nation.

Under Colorado Revised Statutes §22-33-104, parents who choose to homeschool must:

• Provide instruction in the required subjects: reading, writing, literature, fine arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education.
• Notify the superintendent of the local school district of your intent to homeschool by filing a Notice of Intent (NOI) form. This must be submitted within 14 days of beginning homeschooling and again each year by October 1.
• Ensure your child receives at least 172 days of instruction per year, with a minimum of 4 hours of instruction per day (totaling 688 hours annually).
• Administer a standardized achievement test every other year (grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11) and submit the results to the district superintendent. Alternatively, you may opt for a professional evaluation.

Important note: Colorado does not require parents to hold teaching credentials, nor does it mandate curriculum approval or home visits. The state’s approach is based on trust and parental responsibility.

In Denver, you’ll file your NOI with the Denver Public Schools (DPS) district office. You can download the official NOI form from the Colorado Department of Education website or obtain it directly from DPS. Some families prefer to use the simplified form provided by homeschooling associations like the Colorado Homeschooling Network, which is legally acceptable as long as it includes all required information: parent/guardian name, address, child’s name and date of birth, and signature.

Step 2: Choose Your Homeschooling Approach

There is no single “right” way to homeschool. Denver families adopt a wide variety of educational philosophies, each suited to different learning styles, family values, and logistical needs.

Traditional/Classical – Follows a structured, subject-based curriculum similar to conventional schools. Popular among families who value academic rigor and sequential learning. Curricula like Abeka, Saxon Math, and BJU Press are commonly used.

Montessori – Emphasizes hands-on learning, self-directed activity, and collaborative play. Many Denver families enroll in Montessori-inspired home programs or partner with local Montessori schools that offer homeschool support.

Unschooling – Child-led learning driven by curiosity and real-life experiences. Unschoolers in Denver often leverage the city’s museums, parks, and cultural events as classrooms. This approach requires high parental involvement in facilitating learning opportunities rather than direct instruction.

Eclectic – The most popular approach among Denver homeschoolers. Families mix and match resources from multiple philosophies—using a math curriculum from one provider, science experiments from YouTube channels, history from audiobooks, and art from local workshops.

Online Schools – Colorado offers several tuition-free online public charter schools (e.g., Colorado Connections Academy, Colorado Virtual Academy) that provide curriculum, teacher support, and sometimes stipends for learning materials. These are legally considered public school, not homeschooling, but many families use them as a hybrid option.

Take time to reflect on your child’s learning style, your family’s schedule, and your long-term educational goals before selecting an approach. Many families begin with a structured method and transition to a more flexible style as they gain confidence.

Step 3: Select Curriculum and Learning Materials

Choosing curriculum can be one of the most exciting—and overwhelming—parts of starting to homeschool. Denver’s abundance of educational resources means you have countless options, from free online platforms to premium boxed curricula.

Core Subjects:

• Math: Khan Academy (free), Beast Academy (for advanced learners), Singapore Math, or Math-U-See are popular. Denver’s public libraries offer free access to Mathletics and IXL.
• Language Arts: All About Reading, Writing with Ease, or the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) are highly recommended. For younger learners, the Handwriting Without Tears program is widely used.
• Science: Apologia, Mystery Science (digital), and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s homeschool programs provide engaging, standards-aligned content.
• Social Studies: Time4Learning, History Odyssey, and the Colorado Historical Society’s curriculum resources help bring state and U.S. history to life.

Supplemental Resources:

• Art & Music: Denver Art Museum offers free homeschool days and virtual studio classes. Local music schools like the Denver Academy of Music provide group lessons.
• Physical Education: Denver Parks & Recreation offers affordable youth sports, swimming, and outdoor adventure programs. Families also organize weekly hikes in Red Rocks, City Park, or the foothills.
• Foreign Languages: Rosetta Stone, Duolingo, and local language immersion co-ops (e.g., Spanish, French, Mandarin) are widely available.

Many Denver families use the Denver Public Library’s extensive homeschooling collection, which includes curriculum guides, audiobooks, and access to LearningExpress Library for test prep and skill-building. The library also offers free workshops on homeschooling topics.

Step 4: Create a Dedicated Learning Environment

Your home doesn’t need to look like a classroom to be an effective learning space. In Denver, where space can be limited, creativity is key.

Designate a quiet, well-lit area for daily lessons—this could be a corner of the living room, a converted garage, or even a table by a window. Keep supplies organized in labeled bins: notebooks, pencils, science kits, art materials, and reference books.

Many families incorporate nature into their learning environment. Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes outdoor learning a natural extension of education. Consider setting up a “nature table” where children display rocks, leaves, or insects collected on weekend hikes.

Establish a consistent daily rhythm rather than a rigid schedule. For example:

• 8:30–9:30 AM: Morning meeting and math
• 9:30–10:30 AM: Reading and language arts
• 10:30–11:00 AM: Outdoor break or physical activity
• 11:00 AM–12:00 PM: Science or social studies
• 12:00–1:00 PM: Lunch and free time
• 1:00–2:00 PM: Electives (art, music, coding)
• 2:00–3:00 PM: Project work or field trip

Flexibility is one of homeschooling’s greatest strengths. If a field trip to the Denver Botanic Gardens sparks a week-long botany unit, allow the curriculum to adapt.

Step 5: Register and File Required Documents

Once you’ve chosen your approach and materials, it’s time to formally notify the district.

Where to File:

Denver Public Schools

Homeschool Office

1525 N. Franklin Street

Denver, CO 80218

Submit your Notice of Intent via mail, email (homeschool@denverpublicschools.org), or in person. Keep a copy for your records. You may also file electronically through the Colorado Department of Education’s online portal.

After filing, you’ll receive a confirmation letter. You are not required to meet with district staff, but you may be invited to attend an optional orientation session—these are informative and often include networking opportunities with other local homeschoolers.

Remember: You must file a new NOI each year by October 1. If you move within Denver or to another Colorado district, you must file a new NOI with your new district within 14 days.

Step 6: Plan for Annual Testing and Evaluation

Colorado law requires standardized testing every other year for children in grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. Testing must be administered by a qualified professional and results submitted to the district superintendent.

Popular testing options include:

• Stanford Achievement Test (SAT10) – Widely used and accepted by districts.
• Iowa Assessments – Comprehensive and nationally normed.
• California Achievement Test (CAT) – Less common but still valid.

Many Denver families use the Colorado Homeschooling Network or the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) to arrange testing through certified evaluators. Some local libraries and community centers host testing days in the spring.

Alternatively, you may choose a professional evaluation in lieu of testing. This involves submitting a portfolio of your child’s work (projects, writing samples, artwork, logs) to a licensed Colorado teacher for review. The evaluator writes a narrative assessment confirming adequate progress.

Keep detailed records: daily logs, photos of projects, receipts for curriculum purchases, and copies of test results. These are not legally required for most families, but they are invaluable for college applications, future transfers, or if questioned by the district.

Step 7: Connect with the Denver Homeschool Community

Homeschooling can be isolating without community support. Denver boasts one of the most active and diverse homeschool networks in the state.

Join Local Groups:

• Denver Homeschoolers Group (Facebook) – Over 5,000 members sharing field trips, co-ops, and resource swaps.
• Colorado Homeschooling Network (CHN) – Offers monthly meetups, legal guidance, and discounted museum memberships.
• Denver Area Homeschool Co-op – A parent-run cooperative offering weekly classes in Latin, robotics, debate, and theater.

Attend Events:

• Homeschool Expo Denver – Held annually at the Denver Marriott Tech Center, featuring curriculum vendors, workshops, and networking.
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science Homeschool Days – Free admission and guided activities on the first Wednesday of each month.
• Denver Public Library Homeschool Workshops – Free monthly sessions on STEM, coding, and creative writing.

Participating in these groups not only provides academic enrichment but also helps children develop social skills through peer interaction, group projects, and collaborative learning.

Step 8: Explore Extracurricular and Enrichment Opportunities

Denver’s cultural and natural resources make it an ideal location for enriched learning outside the home.

Museums & Cultural Institutions:

• Denver Art Museum: Free homeschool days with guided tours and art studios.
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Hands-on science labs and planetarium shows.
• History Colorado Center: Immersive exhibits on Colorado’s Native American, mining, and frontier history.
• Denver Botanic Gardens: Botany, ecology, and gardening programs for all ages.

Outdoor Learning:

• City Park and Red Rocks: Geology, astronomy, and nature journaling.
• Rocky Mountain National Park (day trips): Environmental science and wildlife studies.
• Denver Urban Gardens: Volunteer opportunities and gardening workshops.

Arts & Athletics:

• Denver Young Artists Orchestra: Music ensembles for homeschooled students.
• Denver Youth Soccer League: Open enrollment for homeschoolers.
• Denver Center for the Performing Arts: Youth theater programs and playwriting workshops.

Many of these programs offer discounted or free admission for homeschool families. Always ask about homeschool rates when registering.

Best Practices

Establish Routines, Not Rigid Schedules

Consistency builds confidence, but flexibility prevents burnout. Design a daily rhythm that includes learning, rest, movement, and creative time. Allow children to have input in planning their week—it fosters ownership and engagement.

Document Everything

Keep a simple homeschool portfolio: a binder or digital folder with samples of writing, math work, photos of projects, field trip receipts, and progress notes. This is not required annually, but it becomes essential when transitioning to high school, applying to colleges, or seeking dual enrollment.

Balance Structure with Freedom

Especially in the early years, let curiosity drive learning. If your child becomes fascinated by insects after a park visit, spend a week exploring entomology through books, videos, and a backyard bug hunt. Deep dives are more effective than superficial coverage.

Teach Life Skills Alongside Academics

Homeschooling is an ideal time to integrate practical skills: budgeting, cooking, gardening, time management, and basic home repair. Denver families often assign weekly chores tied to real-world responsibilities, such as managing a small vegetable garden or planning a family meal on a budget.

Monitor Social-Emotional Development

While homeschoolers often outperform their peers academically, social development requires intentionality. Encourage participation in team sports, volunteer groups, debate clubs, and multi-age co-ops. Avoid over-scheduling; quality interactions matter more than quantity.

Stay Informed on Legal Updates

Colorado homeschooling laws are stable, but always verify requirements annually. Subscribe to newsletters from the Colorado Homeschooling Network or HSLDA for timely updates. Join local Facebook groups where families share legislative news and advocacy efforts.

Resist the Pressure to “Keep Up”

It’s easy to compare your child’s progress to others on social media. Remember: homeschooling is not a race. Focus on growth, not benchmarks. A child who reads slowly but deeply understands literature is thriving more than one who races through books without retention.

Plan for the Long Term

Think ahead to high school: Will your child take AP courses? Pursue dual enrollment at Community College of Denver? Apply to competitive universities? Begin planning at least 2–3 years in advance. Keep transcripts, maintain a portfolio, and explore online high school options like Stanford Online High School or Laurel Springs if needed.

Tools and Resources

Free Online Tools

• Khan Academy – Comprehensive K–12 instruction in math, science, history, and more. All content is free and self-paced.
• CK-12 Foundation – Interactive STEM lessons with adaptive practice and simulations.
• CommonLit – Free reading passages with comprehension questions aligned to Common Core.
• Google Arts & Culture – Virtual museum tours, including the Denver Art Museum and the Smithsonian.
• Libby (by OverDrive) – Free access to thousands of e-books and audiobooks through your Denver Public Library card.

Curriculum Providers Popular in Denver

• Time4Learning – Online, interactive curriculum for K–12. Parents love its automated grading and flexibility.
• Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool – Free, comprehensive curriculum based on the Charlotte Mason method. Ideal for budget-conscious families.
• Brilliant.org – For advanced math and science learners. Focuses on problem-solving over memorization.
• Outschool – Live, small-group online classes on niche topics like “Mythology in Harry Potter” or “Robotics with LEGO.”

Denver-Based Physical Resources

• Denver Public Library Homeschool Resource Center – Offers curriculum lending, teacher consultations, and free workshops. Visit any branch and ask for the homeschool coordinator.
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science Homeschool Program – Monthly themed programs with lab kits mailed to your home.
• Denver Botanic Gardens Education Department – Offers “Nature Explorers” kits and guided outdoor science lessons.
• Colorado Springs Museum of Nature & Science (day trip) – Less crowded than Denver’s version, excellent for astronomy and paleontology units.
• Local Co-ops: Search “Denver homeschool co-op” on Meetup or Facebook to find subject-specific groups (e.g., Latin, physics, drama).

Support Organizations

• Colorado Homeschooling Network (CHN) – Website: coloradohomeschooling.org. Offers legal advice, testing coordination, and annual conferences.
• Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) – Provides legal protection, curriculum reviews, and a national network. Membership recommended for peace of mind.
• Colorado Department of Education – Homeschooling Page – Official state guidelines and forms: cde.colorado.gov/homeschooling

Technology and Organization Tools

• Notion or Google Keep – For tracking assignments, field trips, and progress.
• Google Calendar – Shared family calendar for scheduling lessons, co-op days, and appointments.
• Canva – Create custom worksheets, learning posters, or educational flashcards.
• Quizlet – Build digital flashcards for vocabulary, science terms, or historical dates.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Martinez Family – Eclectic Learners in Northeast Denver

The Martinez family of five began homeschooling in 2021 after their two oldest children struggled with anxiety in traditional school. They adopted an eclectic approach, combining Khan Academy for math, Outschool for Spanish, and weekly visits to the Denver Public Library for storytime and maker workshops.

They attend the Denver Homeschoolers Group’s monthly nature hikes and participate in a local co-op that meets every Thursday for science experiments. Their 10-year-old daughter recently won first place in the Colorado Youth Science Fair for her project on native pollinators, which she developed after collecting data from City Park.

“We didn’t realize how much our kids thrived without bells and standardized tests,” says mother Maria. “Now they read novels for fun, cook meals from scratch, and ask questions about everything. We’re not trying to replicate school—we’re creating a life of learning.”

Example 2: The Thompsons – Online Hybrid in Lakewood

The Thompsons use Colorado Virtual Academy (CVA), a tuition-free online public charter school, for core academics but supplement with homeschool-style activities. Their 12-year-old son takes math and science through CVA’s certified teachers but spends afternoons learning woodworking at the Denver Maker Space and attending a homeschool choir.

“It gives us structure without the pressure,” says father David. “We get curriculum support and funding for materials, but we still get to choose when and how we learn outside the screen.”

Example 3: The Chen Family – Unschooling in the Highlands

The Chens unschool their three children, ages 6, 9, and 13. Their “curriculum” includes weekly trips to the Denver Art Museum, daily journaling, building a backyard greenhouse, and volunteering at a local animal shelter.

Their 13-year-old, who loves photography, recently completed a self-directed project documenting street art across Denver. He compiled the images into a zine and presented it at the Denver Zine Fest. He’s now applying to a youth arts program at the University of Denver.

“We don’t have a textbook in the house,” says mother Linh. “But we have a library card, a camera, and a curiosity that never stops. That’s our education.”

Example 4: Transitioning to High School – The Lee Family

When their daughter reached 9th grade, the Lees wanted to offer AP courses and college credits. They enrolled her in dual enrollment at Community College of Denver while continuing to homeschool for literature and history. She took a college-level writing course and earned 3 college credits before graduating high school.

They maintained a detailed transcript using a template from HSLDA and submitted it alongside her portfolio to the University of Colorado Boulder. She was accepted into the honors program.

“Homeschooling didn’t limit us—it expanded our options,” says father Robert. “We didn’t wait for the system to catch up. We built our own path.”

FAQs

Do I need a teaching degree to homeschool in Denver?

No. Colorado law does not require parents to hold any teaching credentials. You only need to be the legal guardian of the child and comply with state notification and testing requirements.

Can my child still participate in public school sports or extracurriculars?

Yes. Colorado’s “Tim Tebow Law” (House Bill 1005) allows homeschooled students to participate in extracurricular activities at their local public school, including sports, band, and theater, as long as they meet eligibility requirements (e.g., academic standing, age limits). Contact your neighborhood public school’s activities director to begin the process.

How many hours of instruction are required per day?

Colorado requires a minimum of 4 hours per day, 172 days per year (688 total hours). These hours can be spread flexibly—some families do 2 hours in the morning and 2 in the afternoon; others do longer sessions on certain days and shorter ones on others.

Can I homeschool if I work full-time?

Yes. Many Denver families use a combination of online curricula, co-ops, and community programs to balance work and education. Some parents schedule learning during evenings or weekends, while others partner with a trusted family member or hire a tutor for a few hours a week.

Is homeschooling expensive in Denver?

It can be as affordable or as costly as you choose. Many families spend under $500 per year using free library resources, online tools, and community programs. Others invest in premium curricula and private classes. The Denver Public Library offers free access to over 100 educational platforms.

What if I want to switch back to public school?

Denver Public Schools welcomes homeschooled students at any grade level. You’ll need to provide transcripts, test scores, and a portfolio of work to determine grade placement. Most students transition smoothly, especially if they’ve maintained consistent records.

Do I need to file paperwork if I move to Denver from another state?

Yes. If you’re relocating to Denver from another state and plan to homeschool, you must file a Notice of Intent with Denver Public Schools within 14 days of establishing residency. Previous filings in other states do not transfer.

Are there special needs homeschooling resources in Denver?

Yes. Organizations like the Colorado Autism Resource Center and the Denver Regional Council of Governments offer support for families homeschooling children with learning differences. You can also access free evaluations and IEP-style planning through your local school district—even if you’re homeschooling.

Can homeschooled students apply to college?

Absolutely. Colleges actively recruit homeschooled students for their self-motivation and unique experiences. Colleges like CU Boulder, Colorado College, and the University of Denver have specific application guidelines for homeschoolers, often requesting portfolios, transcripts, and letters of recommendation.

How do I find a homeschooling mentor or coach?

Join local Facebook groups or attend the annual Homeschool Expo Denver. Many experienced homeschooling parents offer one-on-one coaching or small-group mentoring. The Colorado Homeschooling Network also maintains a directory of volunteer mentors.

Conclusion

Homeschooling in Denver is more than an educational choice—it’s a lifestyle rooted in curiosity, community, and connection. The city’s rich cultural landscape, supportive legal environment, and thriving homeschool network create a uniquely fertile ground for families seeking an alternative to traditional schooling.

By understanding Colorado’s legal requirements, selecting a learning approach that fits your family’s rhythm, leveraging Denver’s unparalleled educational resources, and connecting with a community of like-minded parents, you can build a meaningful, enriching, and deeply personalized education for your child.

There is no perfect way to homeschool. There is only the right way for your family. Whether you choose structure or spontaneity, tradition or innovation, the goal remains the same: to nurture a lifelong love of learning.

Start small. File your Notice of Intent. Visit the library. Join a co-op. Let your child’s questions lead the way. In Denver, the mountains, museums, and neighborhoods are your classroom. All you need to do is begin.