Families in Colorado are exploring more ways to shape a K–12 education that fits their goals and their child’s learning style. While public school remains the default for many, growing interest in flexible learning paths has led to more conversations about school choice, private education, and homeschool support.
If you’ve heard of education savings accounts or ESAs, you may be wondering how those ideas apply here. While Colorado doesn’t have a full ESA system in place, this guide explores what’s currently available and how resources like Outschool can help you build a personalized learning experience from wherever you are.
What is an Education Savings Account (ESA)?
An Education Savings Account, is a program that allows parents to use public funds to support their child’s education outside the traditional public school system. You can think of it like a specialized account that helps you cover approved educational expenses.
These might include private school costs, one-on-one tutoring, curriculum, online classes, and other learning resources that support your family’s goals. It’s a flexible option that can make room for a more customized approach to education.
That said, ESA programs aren’t the same in every state. The name, rules, eligibility requirements, and funding amounts can vary widely depending on the state.
Does Colorado currently offer an ESA program?
No. Lawmakers have recently explored creating an ESA in Colorado, but the bill did not move forward. Voters were also asked to consider a broader school choice amendment, but it didn’t receive enough support to pass. Because of that and the earlier bill, Colorado families currently won’t find a state-run ESA option like the ones available in some other states. Colorado isn’t unusual, though, many states saw early ESA proposals fail before later creating programs that ultimately worked well for families.
Still, there are local programs offering some similar benefits on a smaller scale. If you live in Denver, the My Spark program may be worth exploring. It provides funding for enrichment and out-of-school learning, helping families access flexible educational opportunities even without a statewide ESA. We'll break down how it works and what it offers next.
What is the My Spark program?
If your child is in middle school in the Denver Public Schools system, the My Spark Denver program may help you cover the cost of meaningful after-school learning experiences. This program gives qualifying families up to $1,000 per student to spend on a wide variety of enrichment activities, from tutoring and STEM to dance and sports.
My Spark launched in 2023 as a partnership between local organizations to increase access to extracurricular opportunities. In 2025, the Denver Public Schools Foundation took over management of the program, expanding its reach and making it easier for families to apply and participate.
Funds are distributed through a prepaid virtual card and can be used at more than 200 local programs that align with your child’s interests and educational needs.
Eligibility
- Residency and Enrollment: Students must be enrolled in a Denver Public Schools middle school (grades 6–8).
- Income: The student must qualify for Free or Reduced-Price Lunch (FRPL).
How it works
- Application: Families can apply online starting around August each year.
- Funding: Approved applicants receive a restricted-use virtual card worth up to $1,000 per student.
- Programs: Funds can be used at over 200 participating providers offering activities such as:
- Academic tutoring
- STEM and robotics classes
- Sports and dance
- Music lessons and visual arts
- Outdoor programs and more
Restrictions
- Only students who meet both enrollment and income criteria are eligible.
- Funds may only be used with participating programs listed by My Spark.
- Families must follow all program guidelines to remain eligible.
How to use your My Spark funds on Outschool
Outschool is an approved vendor for the My Spark Denver program, which means you can use your My Spark Card to enroll in eligible live online classes. Whether your learner is drawn to STEM, the arts, tutoring, or social learning, Outschool offers flexible options to help your child grow outside the traditional classroom.
You can use your My Spark funds on:
- Live music lessons and instrument instruction
- Visual arts like painting, clay modeling, and digital art
- Theater, improv, and performing arts classes
- Hands-on science, STEM clubs, and maker labs
- Cooking and baking courses for beginner chefs
- Dance sessions for all levels and styles
With so many options to explore, it’s easy to help your middle schooler discover new interests or dive deeper into something they already love, all from home and on a schedule that fits your routine.
Colorado empowerment scholarship: Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Colorado doesn't have a single statewide ESA program, but there are still options for families exploring flexible education funding. These FAQs can help you make sense of what’s available and how to get started.
How do I apply for the My Spark program?
Applications usually open around August 1 through the DPS Foundation’s website. If your child is a middle schooler in Denver Public Schools and qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch, you’ll just need to fill out a short form and provide basic eligibility info. Questions? You can always reach out to myspark@dpsfoundation.org for help.
Can I use My Spark funds for online classes or homeschooling resources?
Not exactly. My Spark is designed to support after-school and enrichment programs, not full-time homeschooling or standard curriculum tools. That includes things like tutoring, music lessons, or sports programs, but not core school subjects or daily academic instruction.
What happens if my family's income changes during the program year?
If your financial situation changes significantly, it’s a good idea to notify your program administrator. For My Spark, that means contacting the DPS Foundation. These programs typically require annual reapplication, so you’ll be able to update your information for the next cycle.
Is transportation included or reimbursed through My Spark?
My Spark funds do not typically cover transportation. Parents are responsible for getting their child to and from their selected activities. Be sure to choose programs with locations and schedules that work for your family’s routine.
Empower your child's education: Next steps for Colorado families
As school choice conversations continue across Colorado, programs like My Spark offer a glimpse of what flexible learning support can look like. For many families, these small but meaningful options provide just enough breathing room to explore what truly works for your child.
No matter your goals, having access to flexible learning options makes a difference. At Outschool, we offer live, interest-led enrichment classes that match what programs like My Spark are designed to support. If you're looking for ways to expand your child's learning through dance, STEM, art, or tutoring, Outschool is here to offer classes that fit your family’s needs and schedule.
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