Colorado School Choice FAQ

Question 1

Can I use my Colorado 529 Plan for K-12 private tuition?

Accepted Answer

While federal law allows this, Colorado state law may not align. Using 529 funds for K-12 tuition can trigger state income tax recapture or penalties on deductions previously taken. Consult a tax professional before proceeding.

Question 2

Do Colorado charter schools provide transportation?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. Colorado charter schools are not required to provide busing, and most do not. Parents are responsible for transportation.

Question 3

Does Open Enrollment guarantee me a spot in another Colorado school?

Accepted Answer

No. Colorado open enrollment is based entirely on space available. Popular schools often have long waitlists. Apply during Round 1 (November-January) for the best chance of placement.

Question 4

Can a Colorado school deny my Open Enrollment application?

Accepted Answer

Only for specific reasons, such as lack of space or if the student has been expelled. Colorado schools cannot deny open enrollment based on academic ability or disability.

Question 5

Is there a voucher program for Douglas County, Colorado?

Accepted Answer

No. The Douglas County Choice Scholarship Program (voucher) was ended following court rulings in 2015 and is not active.

Question 6

When will the new Federal Scholarship tax credit program start in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Governor Polis has indicated Colorado will participate starting in January 2027. Details about scholarship amounts and Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) operations are still being developed.

Question 7

Are Options enrichment programs free for homeschoolers in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Yes. These are public school enrichment programs in Colorado funded by the state, available at no cost to participating homeschool families.

Question 8

Do I have to pay to apply for Open Enrollment in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

No. Colorado public schools and districts cannot charge an application fee for Open Enrollment.

Question 9

What is the difference between charter schools and innovation schools in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Charter schools are independent public schools with their own governing boards. Innovation schools are district-run schools that operate with increased autonomy through waivers from certain regulations. Both are free public options with more flexibility than traditional schools.

Question 10

Can I combine homeschooling with public school in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through Options/Enrichment programs. Colorado homeschool families can enroll their children part-time (typically one day per week) to access specific classes like art, music, science, or PE while maintaining homeschool for other subjects.

Question 11

Are there income requirements for Colorado charter schools or open enrollment?

Accepted Answer

No. Charter schools and open enrollment are public school options available to all Colorado families regardless of income.

Question 12

How much do private scholarships in Colorado provide?

Accepted Answer

ACE Scholarships provides approximately $2,000-$4,000 per year. Parents Challenge amounts vary annually based on donations. These are partial scholarships—families must pay the remaining tuition out-of-pocket or through additional financial aid.

Question 13

Can I stack multiple private scholarships in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Colorado families can combine ACE Scholarships, Parents Challenge (if eligible), school-based financial aid, and other private awards to help cover tuition costs.

Question 14

What if I miss the Colorado Open Enrollment Round 1 deadline?

Accepted Answer

You can still apply in Round 2 (usually starting late January), but acceptance is first-come, first-served for remaining seats. Your chances at popular Colorado schools decrease significantly after Round 1.

Colorado Private Scholarship Programs