Introduction
Homeschooling has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more parents choosing to educate their children at home. One of the most common questions that homeschooling parents have is: how do homeschoolers get a diploma? The answer is that there are a variety of ways that homeschoolers can get a diploma, and the best option will vary depending on the individual student’s needs and goals.
What is a Diploma?
A diploma is a document that certifies that a student has completed a course of study and has met certain academic requirements. There are two main types of diplomas:
- A high school diploma certifies that a student has completed the requirements for graduation from high school.
- A general equivalency diploma (GED) is a diploma that is equivalent to a high school diploma and can be obtained by adults who did not complete high school.
How Do Homeschoolers Get a Diploma?
There are a number of ways that homeschoolers can get a diploma. The most common options include:
- Obtaining a diploma from an accredited online school.
- Taking the GED exam.
- Creating a portfolio of work that demonstrates that the student has met the requirements for graduation.
- Enrolling in a local public or private school for the purpose of graduating.
1. Obtaining a Diploma from an Accredited Online School
There are a number of accredited online schools that offer diplomas to homeschoolers. These schools typically offer a variety of courses, including core academic subjects, electives, and foreign languages. Students can enroll in these schools at any time and can complete their coursework at their own pace.
2. Taking the GED Exam
The GED exam is a five-part test that covers the following subjects:
- Reading
- Writing
- Math
- Science
- Social Studies
Students who pass the GED exam will receive a diploma that is equivalent to a high school diploma.
3. Creating a Portfolio of Work
Homeschoolers can also create a portfolio of work that demonstrates that they have met the requirements for graduation. This portfolio can include samples of the student’s work in a variety of subjects, such as essays, projects, and presentations. The portfolio should be reviewed by a qualified professional, such as a teacher or a guidance counselor.
4. Enrolling in a Local Public or Private School
Some homeschoolers choose to enroll in a local public or private school for the purpose of graduating. This option allows homeschoolers to participate in extracurricular activities and to interact with other students. However, it is important to note that homeschoolers who enroll in a public school may be subject to the same graduation requirements as public school students.
Which Option is Right for Me?
The best way to decide which option is right for you is to consider your individual needs and goals. If you are looking for a flexible and convenient option, then obtaining a diploma from an accredited online school or taking the GED exam may be a good choice. If you are looking for a more traditional option, then creating a portfolio of work or enrolling in a local public or private school may be a better fit.
Conclusion
There are a variety of ways that homeschoolers can get a diploma. The best option will vary depending on the individual student’s needs and goals. By carefully considering the available options, homeschoolers can find the best path to graduation.
Additional Resources
– National Home Education Research Institute
– Home School Legal Defense Association
– Association of Christian Schools International
