What is homeschooling?
- Homeschooling mostly means learning at home; this may be due to physical restrictions, emotional inhibitions or simply the parents want to be with his/her child. Homeschooling, no matter its purpose is basically the parent taking responsibility for his/her childs education and is a totally acceptable procedure.
Is homeschooling permitted in my state?
- Yes, homeschooling is permitted in all 50 states, however, there are differences in the implementation. Most of the time, the superintendent must first be notified with the intentions of homeschooling. Each states regulations regarding home schooling varies, some have high, some have low, some dont even require the parent to give notice for a childs homeschooling.
What are the requirements for homeschooling?
- As said earlier, homeschooling varies from state to state, however, every state requires a certain qualification for the parents, a certain list of subjects to be taught, exams and other evaluation procedures, and a certain number of hours of teaching in a school year. Most of the time, if the requirements arent met, homeschooling is discontinued and the child gets sent to a public school.
How do you actually homeschool?
- Some parents employ a set of programs provided by qualified curriculum analysts, however, homeschooling can involve a regimented program or what they call natural learning, which is more of a hands-on experience.
Where do I get my curriculum?
- The internet is a great source, so are libraries and local homeschooling support groups
What about testing?
-Some states require a certain amount of evaluation method, not necessarily written exams. Basically tests are the decision of the parent. Presently, some actual formal education institutions are discouraging the idea of formal exams. A good rule of thumb is, if your child is discovering new things and it is apparent in his/her behavior, then that should be evaluation enough.
What about College?
- The main disadvantage of homeschooling is its lack of a diploma, since the child isnt taught in a public school, the state cannot issue a diploma; however, some states allow parents to make their own diplomas to be given to the child on the day of graduation. Nevertheless, homeschooled people shouldnt find it hard to get into college or pursue higher education as many institutions, colleges and universities highly accept and sometimes even encourage the entrance of homeschooled students into their school program. |
