We are much closer as a family than most PS kids. We have a great time together and when I meet PS families they are always a little amazed that my kids seem to have bypassed the "sullen, rebellious age" they are told is so normal with their kids. From my observations that is a byproduct of the school system.
Homeschooling has its drawbacks as well as its advantages. Despite what the liberal media would have you believe, huge amounts of money are poured into PS and that is sometimes hard for a HS parent to compete with. For instance, I have always regreted that I never had a really great microscope for them to use like I had in HS or other science and art supplies that I can't afford. But the trade off is FAR worth it.
As far as a prom or sports goes, depending on your area, you can find hs'ers organized to offer such things. You can get class rings and other stuff. The kids in my hs group have a group ethic where they actually feel like a school as far as socialization goes. They skate together, have beach day, graduation ceremonies, etc. Today my son is going to a language class with his friends. They just aren't herded together without parental supervision for 8 hours a day.
Wow, this is a long post but I hope it tells you some interesting things about homeschooling. If you have the commitment there is nothing more rewarding. It is like you actually have your children to ENJOY them, and don't have to ship them off all day into the care of others. We have a great old time.
Our daughter has always been involved in community groups and sports. She has wonderful friends, both home educated and public/private educated, and gets together with them on a regular basis.
Currently she's on a USATF (track and field) team competing in long jump, high jump, 80m hurdles, sprints, and javelin. On off season she plays basketball on a competitive girls league (not a homeschool league). She was asked to play on a summer comp league but chose track instead.
Who says homeschooled kiddos can't cheer at a football game? I know some who attend local high school games. I know others who attend professional games...of football and basketball.
She, along with a friend, will be completing a Red Cross First Aid and Babysitting course in a few weeks. Droves of friends have already begun lining up for her services. :o)
I lead a homeschool support group in our city. We have 34 families and get together throughout the month for coop classes and fellowship. 34 families means scads of kiddos!
I know of many high school homeschoolers. While they may not have the typical prom, they don't want it either. Have you chaperoned a prom lately? lol! There are alternatives to the typical prom experience.
Homeschoolers are very creative with their resources and time. I do not know of even *one* young person or parent that regrets their decision to school at home.
The socialization issue is a myth. True socialization means the ability to converse with and get along with people of all ages, not just their peers.