2.6 High School Overview (Oregon)

Q: What makes OpenEd different from a traditional high school experience?

A: Freedom. Real flexibility. And zero bells between classes.

OpenEd students aren’t locked into a rigid, one-size-fits-all schedule. Instead of simply checking boxes, they build an education around their goals. Want to take college courses? Go for it. Want to deep dive into marine biology, entrepreneurship, or filmmaking? Yes please.

We still help students stay on track for their post–high school plans, but how they get there can look very different than a traditional classroom. And we’re right alongside them with guidance and support the whole way.

Q: Are learning logs still required?

A: Yes! High schoolers complete weekly learning logs.

They’re a simple way to reflect, document progress, and show what learning looks like in real life. Think of it less like busywork and more like capturing the story of their growth.

Q: How flexible is it?

A: Almost as flexible as your student wants it to be.

Students aren’t bound only to traditional public school course lists. They have access to core subjects and beyond. If they want to double down on coding, pursue early college credits, build a business, or follow a more traditional structure, they can.

There are still program requirements (learning logs, assessments, core subjects), but how learning happens is largely up to your student. We’ll help map out a pathway that aligns with their post–high school goals so flexibility still leads somewhere meaningful.

Q: What are the actual requirements?

A: Every student creates an Education Plan (EdPlan) that includes core subjects:

• Math
• Science
• English
• History
• CTE (Career & Technical Education)

After that? They can add electives, independent studies, passion projects, certifications, dual enrollment courses — you name it.

The foundation is solid. The customization is where it gets fun.

Q: Will my student earn a diploma at graduation?

A: Most of our students follow a flexible pathway, often combining college coursework, certifications, or even earning an Associate’s degree along the way. We offer personalized consultations before enrollment is complete so you can discuss what plan best meets your expectations. 

If your goal is a structured traditional pathway, another program may be a better fit – and we’re always happy to talk that through with you.

Q: Will OpenEd support all high school grades (9-12)?

A: We’ll continue working to expand to support all grades in the future! 

Q: What happens if my student decides to transfer to a traditional school?

A: Transfers are possible, but the receiving school determines how your learning progress is counted toward their credits.

Because OpenEd students follow a homeschool-style pathway, your student would likely transfer in as a homeschool student. The new school may require placement testing or credit evaluations.

If a traditional transfer is something you’re considering, we recommend talking with that school ahead of time so you understand their specific requirements.

Q: Can my student participate in sports at my local high school?

A: Unfortunately not. If your student is participating in OpenEd, they will not be eligible for local sports. If your student is enrolled in OpenEd and attempts to register in high school sports with their local school it may invalidate their eligibility and result in a withdrawal from the program.

Q: Will my student be required to participate in state testing?

A: All students in OpenEd are expected to participate in required state testing. The accountability framework in Oregon is changing, so we don’t know if the state opt out allowances will adjust from years past. 

Q: Are there more requirements in high school (portfolios, etc.)?
A: No. Expectations remain the same for high school as for K-8 in Oregon. That includes learning logs, attendance, and state testing requirements.

Q: Does OpenEd issue a diploma?

A: No. If a state-issued diploma is your student’s goal, there will be a path through our district partner by 12th grade. That path will likely include additional requirements (like assessments or demonstrated mastery), and we’ll share more details as they’re finalized.

Because OpenEd uses a flexible, pass/fail model, it doesn’t directly map to traditional credits and grading required for a district-issued diploma.

It’s also important to know that many students successfully graduate without a traditional diploma. Families can:

• Create a homeschool diploma and transcript, or
• Use a transcript service for college or career pathways

Colleges and career paths are absolutely still open with these options.

If you’re thinking through what path is best for your student, our team can help you map it out. Book time with a Student Pathway Specialist: here.

Q: Can parents create their own transcript?

A: Yes. Many families choose to do this for college applications.

Q: Will students earn enough credits to graduate?

A: Yes. Families can structure coursework to meet typical graduation expectations.

Q: How do we track credits?

A: Families track credits based on coursework; support is available through Student Pathway Specialists.

Q: Can we choose our own curriculum?

A: Yes. OpenEd is flexible and parent-directed.

Q: How do I know if the curriculum meets grade-level requirements?

A: Our team can help guide placement and alignment.

Q: Can students work ahead or behind grade level?

A: Yes. Learning is flexible and can be customized.

Q: Will someone help us plan high school?

A: Yes. Student Pathway Specialists offer 1:1 support. Book time with a Student Pathway Specialist: here.