How to start homeschooling in Colorado

Everything you need to legally begin homeschooling in Colorado, broken into clear steps. Plan to spend about an hour completing the paperwork before your first day.

The short version

Colorado requires annual notice and periodic testing or evaluation, but offers reasonable flexibility on subjects and methods.

The full process, step by step

Step 1

File a Notice of Intent with your chosen Colorado district at least 14 days before starting.

Step 2

Submit a withdrawal letter to your child's current public school if applicable.

Step 3

Plan a curriculum that covers the required subjects.

Step 4

Track attendance to meet the 172 days × 4 hours requirement.

Step 5

Arrange standardized testing or evaluation in the required grades.

Things that help on day one

A binder, folder, or app to keep paperwork in one place.
Your child's most recent report card or academic records.
A simple weekly rhythm sketched out — even one bullet list of subjects per day.
A camera or phone for documenting the first weeks of moments.
A list of any homeschool co-ops, libraries, or community groups in your area.

Disclaimer: This guide summarises commonly known Colorado homeschool requirements. Laws change. For official, up-to-date legal guidance, consult the HSLDA state guide or your state Department of Education before submitting paperwork.

Read the full Colorado homeschool law summary →

Document day one beautifully

Once you've filed the paperwork, capture every moment of learning that follows. Free tier — no credit card required.

Try Homeschool Moment Free