Homeschool to High School: How Delone Catholic Creates a Smooth Transition

For many families, the kitchen table has been the center of learning for years. You have cultivated a curriculum tailored to your child’s pace, instilled deep-rooted values, and protected their environment. Making the decision to move from homeschooling to a brick-and-mortar high school is a significant milestone—and it often comes with a mix of excitement and anxiety.

At Delone Catholic High School, we understand that you aren't just looking for a building with desks; you are looking for a partner in your child's formation. Whether you are seeking more advanced science labs, a wider range of extracurriculars, or preparation for college life, here is how Delone Catholic ensures that former homeschoolers not only adjust but thrive as Squires.

"We are grateful for the smooth transition that our children had in going from homeschooling to becoming Squires at Delone Catholic.  Their classes at Delone Catholic have prepared them well for college.  It was good for them to have the opportunity to join a Catholic community, such as Delone Catholic, before venturing into the college world.  Our children especially enjoyed all the musical opportunities and theater productions that occur throughout the year.  Delone Catholic has helped prepare our children to go forward into the world to do whatever God has planned for them." ~ Troy and Mary Martz P'12, P'14, P'17, P'19, P'22, P'26, P'27

A Foundation of Shared Values

The most common reason families homeschool is to integrate faith and values into daily life. The transition to high school can sometimes be a culture shock in this regard.

At Delone Catholic, the transition is seamless because the foundation remains the same. We are "Doers of the Word (James 1:22)." Your child will move from a home where faith is central to a school where prayer, theology, and service are woven into the daily schedule. The moral compass you have carefully calibrated at home is reinforced here, not challenged.

Small Class Sizes & Individualized Attention

One of the greatest benefits of homeschooling is the one-on-one attention. The fear of being "lost in the crowd" in a large high school is real.

Delone Catholic offers a distinct advantage over massive public high schools:

• Low Student-to-Teacher Ratio | Our teachers know their students by name, strength, and struggle.
• Personalized Guidance | Our school counselors work closely with transfer students to ensure they are placed in classes that match their ability, whether that means College Prep, Honors, or AP courses.
• Academic Support |  If a student struggles with the shift in structure, our faculty provides the necessary safety nets to help them manage time and organization. Some of our faculty members even have experience homeschooling their own children and are exceptionally well prepared to help. 

Navigating the Social Scene

The question on every student's mind is: "Will I make friends?"
The question on every parent's mind is: "Will they fit in?"

The "Squire" culture is uniquely welcoming. Because our student body comes from various grade schools, parishes, and backgrounds across Pennsylvania and Maryland, we are accustomed to welcoming new faces.

To help homeschoolers integrate socially, we encourage immediate involvement in:

• The Arts | From our award-winning marching band to the theater department.
• Athletics | Sports teams are the fastest way to build a brotherhood or sisterhood.
• Spiritual Life | Peer ministry and retreat teams offer a low-pressure way to connect with students who share similar values.

The "Shadow Day" Difference

We don't expect you to commit based on a brochure. The best way to alleviate the fear of the unknown is to experience a day in the life of a Squire.

We highly encourage homeschool students to schedule a Shadow Day. Your child will be paired with a current student who shares similar interests. They will:

• Walk the halls and navigate the schedule.
• Meet the teachers and eat in the cafeteria.
• Experience the classroom dynamic firsthand.

Most homeschool students finish their Shadow Day with a sigh of relief and a smile, realizing that high school isn't as intimidating as they imagined.

Practical Tips for the Homeschool-to-Delone Catholic Transition

If you are preparing to make the switch, here is how you can help your student prepare:

• Time Management | Start using a rigid planner or bell schedule at home a few months prior to get used to fixed time blocks.
• Self-Advocacy | Encourage your student to practice asking for help from adults other than parents.
• Technology | Ensure familiarity with standard educational software (Google Classroom, etc.), which we use to manage assignments.

Ready to Explore the Next Step?

You have done an incredible job laying the educational and spiritual foundation for your child. Now, let us help them to continue their spiritual, moral, academic, and personal development as servant leaders for the modern world.

• Visit | Schedule a personal tour for your family and/or a shadow day for your child. 
• Contact Us | Our Admissions team is ready to answer your questions. Email your questions to admissions@delonecatholic.org or call 717-637-5969, Ext. 216.