How to Use Charter Funds for Homeschool Programs and Enrichment Classes in Orange County
One of the most common questions we hear from families considering homeschooling is: “Can I use charter school funds to pay for homeschool classes or enrichment?” The good news is yes, you can! Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works in Orange County.
🎓 What Are Charter School Funds?
Public charter schools in California receive state funding for enrolled students. When you choose to homeschool through a public charter school, a portion of those funds can be used for educational services and materials. Instead of parents paying everything out of pocket, funds can often cover things like:
Core subject classes (math, English, science, history)
Enrichment classes (art, theatre, robotics, music)
Approved secular curriculum and textbooks
Tutoring or supplemental learning programs like Creative Steam Academy
🏫 How Do Families Access Charter Funds?
Enroll with a Homeschool Charter
– Popular options in Orange County include but not limited to Suncoast Prep, Inspire, Cabrillo Point, Sky Mountain, Sage Oak, Scale, BEST, and Excel.
Work with Your Assigned Teacher (ES)
– Each charter assigns an Education Specialist (ES) who helps track progress and approve spending.
Submit Purchase Orders (POs)
– Instead of paying directly, parents request funds through POs. The school then pays the vendor directly.
Track and Renew Each Semester
– Charters usually set a budget per semester (or annually). Families track what’s been used and what’s left.
🌟 How Creative STEAM Works with Charter Funds
As a homeschool nonprofit learning center, Creative STEAM is not an approved vendor directly but we work with vendors (teachers) who are approved vendors for many Orange County charters. That means families can apply charter funds directly to their teachers toward:
Our CORE Academy program (1–4 days per week)
Afternoon enrichment classes (art, theatre, STEM, robotics, etc.)
We handle the invoicing and purchase orders directly with your charter making the process simple for families.
✨ Important Things to Know
Not all charters approve every class or curriculum always confirm with your ES.
Some charters don’t cover registration and material fees (families may pay those out of pocket).
Charter funds cannot be used for religious curriculum or services (California law).
✅ Final Thoughts
Charter school funds can be a huge help in making homeschooling affordable and accessible. Whether you choose a 1-day enrichment program or a 4-day academic track, Creative STEAM is here to help you navigate the process.
👉 Have questions about how to get started with charter funds? Contact us we’re happy to walk you through it step by step!