What you should do first is visit the local high school to find out if you can return and earn a diploma. While you are at the high school, check out if there is a continuation school in the district that would accept you. These programs work well for students who have had difficulty in regular schools. You can also find out if the district has an adult education program.

After learning about different high school programs, visit a local community college. Many have programs that let students take courses that count toward a high school diploma. At the same time, you could be building college credits toward a degree or certificate program.

You also need to find out about getting a GED. In many states, there are age and residency requirements that must be met.

Finally, your father could homeschool you and even award you a diploma. Unfortunately, it will not mean as much as a high school diploma to employers or colleges who may require GED, ACT, or SAT tests.

You have a lot of things to take into consideration when making your decision -- what is the best education setting and are you willing to make the necessary effort and time commitment?

We wish you luck.