Colorado Public Online Education
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can my child attend a public online school from home?
Many school districts offer tuition-free online public schools. When a student is enrolled in an online school, the program is delivered through the use of a computer and the Internet, allowing the student to complete course work at home. The student receives support from the school’s teachers via e-mail, phone, and sometimes in-person visits. Students need supervision and assistance from a parent or guardian.
Single district online programs or schools serve only students who live in that particular school district. There are also district online schools and charter online schools that serve students who live anywhere in the state. These are called Multi-district online schools. Some programs or schools may also have a physical location where students can go to complete all or some of their course work or receive tutoring.
For more information, and for a list of schools and programs, visit the Colorado Department of Education’s website.
Who may enroll in a public online school?
Public online programs and schools are available for Colorado children in grades kindergarten through 12. Many school districts offer online programs or online schools for students living anywhere in the state. Some public online schools are charter schools. A number of school districts offer online programs or schools for only students who live in that particular school district. For more information, and for a list of schools and programs, visit the Colorado Department of Education’s website.
Can students who homeschooled or attended a private school in the previous year enroll in a public online school?
Yes. As of 2008, students who were previously enrolled in a homeschool or private school may enroll in a public online education program.
Is a public online school the same as homeschooling?
No. Students enrolled in a public online school are not under homeschool law and must meet attendance and testing requirements expected of any public school student. Click here to see information about homeschooling.
Will my child be working on the computer all day?
How much time is spent online depends on the program. The coursework is not always completed online; many assignments involve physical materials and books read away from the computer, especially in the early grades.
What if we don’t have a computer at home?
Most public online schools will supply a computer and reimburse you for the cost of an Internet connection. Please check with individual schools for details.
Where can I read the Colorado online learning law?
Please visit the Colorado Department of Education’s Online Learning page for legislation and rules regarding online learning.