Our Philosophy:
It is our intent to assist parents as they homeschool their children with the resources of Aurora Public Schools. Options School is an enrichment program for children in grades K-12 and should be considered only 20% of a total homeschool program. (See Colorado Law for more details as to the requirements.) Block Classes are offered to students in grades 9-12 and will fulfill complete credit hours for certain courses. Children in grades 11/12 are encouraged to attend Aurora Community college (or other community college in your area) for classes in upper math, science, and foreign language at no cost to the family. (Details about this at a separate meeting.) Children enrolled in Options are considered part-time students of the Aurora Public Schools.
Colorado Homeschool Law:
Colorado Law (CO. Statutes 22-33-104.5) requires parents to provide 172 days of instruction averaging 4 hours a day. Testing is mandatory in grades 3,5,7,9, and 11. Further details and the full statement about the Colorado Homeschool Law are available upon request.
Administration Staff:
Renee Rodriguez is the Orchard Options coordinator. Joe Burton is our site Principal and he reports to Dr. Synnott, founder and director of Options. Both Dr. Synnott and Mr. Burton are retired Aurora Public School Principals.
Homework:
Teachers are free to assign up to 1 hour of homework per class per week. For 6th – 8th grade students (full curriculum classes require more). Students are asked to complete assignments as needed with the help of parents as necessary. High School block classes will have required homework to complete credit hours.
