Home Study

In response to a growing population of parents seeking an active role in their children’s education, Horizon Charter Schools (HCS) began as a public independent study program 30 years ago, and we have always remained true to our roots. That’s why our main focus continues to be supporting and expanding independent study teaching programs and educational opportunities for our families.

Supported Home Study allows families to explore their unique interests through lessons, activities, classes and study trips. You choose how your children learn and are actively involved in lesson planning, day-to-day instruction, and correcting assignments. You do this on a schedule that works best for your family. Lessons can be conducted at home, a park, a library, a doctor’s office or even on vacation. This type of schooling allows families to spend more time together growing, learning and bonding, and lets students pursue their individual interests.

Since we’re a public charter school, there are never any tuition fees, and most classes, study trips, and educational materials can be paid for with your state-provided student funds. To help families get even more from their homeschooling experience, this year, we raised the amount of funds you have to spend — $3,000 per student, that’s more per student than most other area charter schools provide. In addition, funds can be shared between family members, providing even greater flexibility and choices for parents.

In the alternative home study program, parents work in strong partnerships with a highly qualified, state credentialed, Supervising Teacher (ST) who forms a strong bond with their home schooling families, helping and encouraging them along the way. Your ST will help develop a Personalized Learning Plan for each student based on the California Academic Content Standards and the individual child’s abilities, interests, and learning style. Then they’ll monitor your child’s progress through regular, scheduled, face-to-face meetings and provide assistance, guidance and input as needed. Your ST will ensure all requirements are being met, answer questions and provide ideas and assistance, giving you the peace of mind you need.

We also recognize that some parents may need additional assistance with particular subjects, like math, science, history or language arts. That’s why, in addition to the great support provided by your ST, Horizon Charter Schools provides a Parent Educator who teaches workshops and gives you tips and tricks to teach specific courses. Because not all children learn the same way, our Parent Educator may also help you recognize and work with different learning styles. Check out our Parent Educator page for more information.