There is so much information about homeschooling that it can seem overwhelming. We've gathered information to help you make your homeschooling decision and to inform you about laws and other legal issues. Here you'll find research and statistics that support the notion that homeschooling provides specific advantages to children and families. And we'll help you take the first steps on the road of your own homeschooling adventure.
|
| |
| Why Homeschool? |
| |
The first step to homeschooling is making your decision to home educate your child. It is important to become informed and knowledgeable about some of the main concerns you may have. Explore these areas of our website to learn more about the initial decision to homeschool.
|
|
| Where to Begin |
| |
You've decided to homeschool your child! But what comes first? For many parents, knowing where to begin in the homeschooling process can be confusing. Although there seems to be so much information available, it may be hard to get your questions answered. We've put together some resources to start you on your journey, giving you the information and motivation you need to successfully begin to homeschool in Vermont.
|
|
| Legal/Homeschool Laws |
| |
Laws that regulate home education vary from state to state. It is important to understand the legal requirements in your state and to be aware of legislative and other legal issues that affect homeschoolers in your community. We've compiled resources that will help you become informed. Although homeschooling is legal in all 50 states, and the vast majority of homeschoolers face no problems, you may find that you need legal assistance at some point in your homeschooling career. We've compiled a list of resources to help you find the support you need. And if you'd like to become more involved in working towards homeschooling freedoms, we discuss some of the issues facing homeschoolers that we hope you find compelling.
|
|
| History of Homeschooling in America |
| |
How did homeschooling start? When did it become legal? Who were the key players in making homeschooling the social movement it is today? The story of the history of homeschooling in the United States is a compelling tale of dedication, innovative ideas, and personal conviction and sacrifice. We have put together a history of this educational and social phenomenon, hoping it will inspire you to learn from the early and more recent pioneers of home education in America.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Special Ed: Factory-Like Schooling May Soon Be a Thing of the Past |
|
Britton Manasco |
|
Britton Manasco, writing for Reason Magazine, looks at the advantages of homeschooling, along with some interesting facets of home education. Discusses the benefits of encouraging independent thought and decentralized learning practices. The article also takes a look at the state of today's classrooms and the limitations of traditional notions of education. There is also a discussion of the use of technology in the homeschool environment and how this relates to the issue of socialization. |
|
|
|
|
Why I am Home-Schooling This Fall |
|
Chandra Hoffman |
|
Chandra Hoffman has decided to home-school her 8-year-old son Hayden once this school year ends. She certainly didn’t make this choice to fill her “free” time — her first novel, “Chosen,” is coming out this fall, and most authors clear their calendars for an event like that. But her overstuffed calendar — and her son’s — is precisely the reason she is making this choice. |
|
|
|
|
Who Stole Homeschooling |
|
Cheryl Seelhoff |
|
A look at the change in the homeschooling movement from an inclusive philosophy to a more structured, compartmentalized, and politicized structure. |
|
|
|
|
Are You Qualified? |
|
Rachel Wolf |
|
Without a degree, are you qualified to teach your own children at home? Rather than attempting to be an authority on everything, homeschooling parents are the bridge that connects their children with people, resources, and tools to help them reach their goals. |
|
|
|
|
A Fifteen Year Perspective |
|
HSLDA |
|
When Michael Farris and Michael Smith founded Home School Legal Defense Association in March of 1983, home schooling was just a tiny blip on the education radar screen. The concept of parents teaching their children at home was relatively obscure, and the families who chose to follow this non-traditional education route were fairly certain to face opposition from the educational bureaucracy and following legal entanglements, as well as from their own friends and family. |
|
|
|
|