Homeschool Curriculum for High School Freshmen

Starting high school at home can be a big leap for you and your teen. Whether you’ve been homeschooling for years or are just beginning, ninth grade brings new challenges and choices. This is the year students start earning credits that count toward graduation. It’s a time for more independence, deeper thinking, and stronger academic focus.

In this guide, we’ll walk through your options for a high school homeschool curriculum, share some of the best online high school programmes, and explain how accredited homeschool programs can help you stay on track. You’ll also find tips to support your teen during this transition and make your homeschool life easier.

Why Ninth Grade Matters

Grade 9 isn’t just another year. It’s the foundation for everything that comes next, including university, trade school, or a future job. That’s why it’s essential to choose solid and flexible courses.

Here’s what most first-year high school students cover:

• English Language Arts (literature, writing, grammar)
• Mathematics (Algebra I or Geometry)
• Science (Physical Science, Biology)
• Social Studies (World History or Geography)
• Electives (Art, Health, PE, Coding, etc.)
• Optional: Foreign Language (French, Spanish, etc.)

A good programme balances structure and independence for your teen. Depending on where you live, it should also prepare them to meet provincial or national graduation requirements.

For more information, read: Top 1st Grade Homeschool Curricula Ranked

What to Look for in a High School Homeschool Curriculum

Before you pick a curriculum, consider these key factors:

1. Academic Rigour

Is the course challenging enough to prepare your teen for post-secondary options?

2. Clear Credit System

Will it help you track credits for each subject over the next four years?

3. Learning Style Fit

Does your teen learn best through reading, video, discussion, or hands-on work?

4. Parental Role

Do you want to be the primary teacher, or would you prefer a programme with instructors included?

5. Accreditation

Is the curriculum part of an accredited homeschool program, and will it meet the requirements for graduation?

Top Homeschool Curriculum Options for 9th Grade

We’ve compiled a mix of traditional, online, and flexible options suitable for first-year high school students.

1. K12 Private Academy

Type: Fully online | Accredited | Teacher-supported

This is one of the most well-known full-time online high school options. Students log into a virtual classroom, take lessons, and get support from certified teachers.

What’s included:

• Full 9th-grade course load
• Teachers grade assignments and provide feedback
• Progress tracking and transcripts
• Optional clubs and activities

Suitable for: Families looking for a complete, accredited online school experience with built-in support.

2. Acellus Academy (Power Homeschool)

Type: Online | Accredited | Self-paced

Acellus offers an independent, video-based learning platform where students work at their speed. It’s fully accredited and includes automatic grading.

Features:

• Short video lessons
• Instant feedback and scoring
• Subjects include science, math, language arts, and electives
• High school credit tracking is built in

Best for: Independent learners and busy families who need flexibility.

3. Notgrass History + Mix-and-Match Approach

Type: Print-based | Faith-friendly | Flexible

Many families use a mix of high-quality individual resources instead of a complete package. Notgrass History is a strong option for social studies, with reading, writing, and project options.

Pair it with:

• Saxon or Teaching Textbooks for Math
• IEW for Writing
• Apologia for Science

Best for: Parents who want more control and teens who enjoy traditional reading-based study.

4. Keystone School

Type: Online | Accredited | Structured

Keystone is a long-standing provider of full-time online high school education. Students can follow a flexible pace while earning credits from an accredited source.

What to expect:

• Full 9th-grade curriculum
• Teacher support and grading
• Customisable course selection
• Diplomas offered

Suitable for: Students looking for structured learning with flexible pacing.

5. Oak Meadow High School

Type: Print & Online | Secular | Creative & Student-Centred

Oak Meadow offers a unique curriculum that blends strong academics with creative learning. It’s perfect for artistic, self-motivated teens.

Highlights:

• Literature-based courses
• Creative projects in place of tests
• Optional accreditation and transcripts
• Encourages independent thinking

Best for: Teens who thrive with open-ended assignments and deeper reflection.

Add-On Electives for High School Freshmen

Electives are a great way to explore interests and keep learning fun. These options pair well with any high school homeschool curriculum:

• Art & Design: Art in Action, Drawing with Mark, online design courses
• Coding & Tech: CodeHS, Tynker, Khan Academy Computer Science
  
• Health & PE: Homeschool Health with Apologia, or create your fitness log
• Foreign Language: Duolingo, Breaking the Barrier, or Rosetta Stone

Staying on Track: Planning for Graduation

It’s never too early to think about your teen’s long-term goals. Use this time to start building a high school transcript. You can make a simple spreadsheet that tracks:

• Courses completed
• Final grades
• Credits earned per subject
• Volunteer hours or extracurriculars

Many accredited homeschool programs provide templates or transcript services if you’re unsure how to set this up.

Tips for Homeschooling Your Teen with Confidence

Homeschooling a high schooler is different — but you’ve got this. Here are a few tips to make the process smoother:

• Talk About Goals Together

Ask your teen what they’re interested in. Help them set goals for the year and beyond.

• Build a Routine

Having a simple daily schedule helps teens stay motivated and independent.

• Create a Study Space

A quiet, well-lit spot with supplies ready makes learning easier.

• Check In Weekly

Have a short weekly meeting to review what’s working and what’s not.

• Give Them Ownership

Let your teen choose what they study and how they learn.

For more information, read our blog: 5th Grade Homeschool Curriculum Recommendations

Building a Strong Start

Choosing a high school homeschool curriculum doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by considering what your teen needs — support, structure, independence, or something flexible. Whether you go with a complete online high school programme or build your mix with trusted resources, the key is finding what fits your family best.

And remember: It’s okay to try something and change course later. That’s the beauty of homeschooling.

What are your biggest questions about homeschooling ninth grade? Drop them in the comments — we’d love to hear your story or help you find the right path. And if this guide helped, please share it with a fellow homeschool family!