Divorce, Death, and Deployment are Facts Of Life, but They Shouldn’t Mean the End of Homeschooling

There is no shame in being a single parent. The circumstances of life are diverse and not at all times pleasant. There are many parents who find themselves alone in the pursuit of homeschooling a child – for a multitude of reasons. But we want you to be assured that it absolutely can be accomplished successfully, and that there are many others in your situation, as well as resources to back you up in your endeavor.

When you are suddenly forced to both provide income and school your children, the task at hand can seem all the more daunting. For Mary Jo Tate of Single Parents at Home, it all became about finding a new sense of “normal” as well as the additional income. “I was deeply committed to remaining at home  with my children and continuing to homeschool them,” she commented, “yet I really wondered how I could support us all financially.”

Striking a Balance

The single parent must find the solution to two very important problems: providing financial income and securing their own emotional support. The emotional support is an extremely important aspect, and one that should not be shuffled to the bottom of the pile because it seems less important. You have to be taking care of yourself in order to be the best homeschool parent possible for your child. At times, you will need to put YOU first. So flush away the guilt early.

A New Sense of Normal

You will be amazed at the versatility and the ability of your children to adapt to a new set of circumstances. Key points to keep in mind while planning the HOW TO’s:

1. The flexibility afforded by homeschooling. Who says school needs to commence weekday mornings at 9 am? Instruction hours can be completed in the evenings after work and on the weekends.

2. Utilizing any and all resources. This means friends, family members, and neighbors who could help you. Put your pride to the side and be willing to lean upon others at times. Put yourself in their shoes, and realize that you would most certainly help them if THEY needed it, without hesitation.

3. Maintain routine and discipline. While behavior problems are a real possibility in every household – even the “most normal” – this should not discourage single parents from homeschooling. Rules and routines will become commonplace and comforting to your child. Be compassionate to their needs, but also require the respect that you deserve as their parent and teacher.

4. Get Online Support. We’ve compiled a list of online resources for you to utilize in your quest. Connecting with others in similar situations, brainstorming, and simply swapping stories is a very beneficial part of the emotional support needed for a single parent.

• Single Parent Homeschool.  A ministry equipping and encouraging single parents to homeschool.
• Janet’s Country Home. An uplifting page dedicated to parent’s who find themselves suddenly alone.
• Personal Testimonies.  Read what other parents have to say about their journey.
• Home Educating Family Association.  Read about how to homeschool special needs children when single.

If you become disheartened, remember that you are the one person in the world who absolutely has your child’s best interests at heart. The fact that homeschooling is flexible, versatile, and easily adjustable under any circumstances will remain the light to guide you.

A Single Parent CAN Homeschool: A How-To Guide

Homeschooled Kids Can Enjoy Awesome Educational Memories – Here’s How

Building excellent childhood memories and retaining them is one of the most essential components of our personal development. Think about it – how treasured are your own unique stories and images from your youth? As adults… well, I believe that we wouldn’t give them up for anything.

Times Have Changed

It’s wonderful to have our old movies, slide shows, and photo albums that we pour over on occasion, or show off to our kids. But in this digital world we belong to now, times have certainly changed from when we were younger! For many families, phones have become an essential part of the daily, or even hourly, routine. We grab snapshots, little videos, and capture moments that we feel are going to last forever. This is all we need right?

But think for a moment. Do you really take the time to upload those snapshots to your hard drive, and then commit them to CD or removable disk? Do you even take real photographs or video anymore? What happens when your phone dies, falls into water, or gets lost? Many times, your images and moments are lost as well… forever.

Yearbooks Are an Excellent Tool to Preserve Memory

Every homeschooling family should strive to put together a small yearbook (or a large one if it’s your passion) to preserve your memories. Not only is it fun – it’s easy! You just need to commit yourself to uploading phone shots directly to your computer WHEN you take them. Here’s how to complete a yearbook.

Homeschool Yearbook Step-By-Step

1. Section 1. Academics. Include a section devoted to the units you study during the year. Use pictures of your children working or doing projects, holding their books or playing dress-up for history or geography. Include any major achievements your child has made during the course of the year.
2. Section 2. Field Trips. You’re likely to have great photographs of your homeschool fieldtrips, so don’t forget to devote an entire section of the yearbook to them. If you don’t have any fieldtrips planned, don’t delay!
3. Section 3. Friends and Family. Include a page with pictures of friends and family. The definition of “friend” can be as broad as you want to make it. The librarian, the UPS man, the children who live next door? If it is someone your kids may remember years from now, they would probably enjoy having a picture included in the yearbook. And when that person is no longer around, you may be thankful for the pictures you saved.
4. Section 4. Sports and Extra-Curricular.  Include team photos, pictures of games, or shots of your kids hanging out with friends after the game. If your homeschool group has a field day, photograph that. Or take pictures of your kids riding bikes, playing tag, or doing whatever they enjoy. If your children are in a church program or Scouts, make pages for those too.
5. Section 5. Graduation Ceremonies. This is a very important event in your child’s life. Go as far as you can to make it a big deal, and be sure to photograph away!

Publishing Your Yearbook

Make sure that you take the final step and self-publish your yearbook. A print version for your children to hold and pour through is just as important as taking the photos and putting it together on your computer. There are many self publishing sites online to help you complete the process. Or you can take the pages to your local office supply/print store and have them copied and put in comb binders with plastic front and back covers, at a very reasonable cost. You can then order as many copies as you desire for friends and family. Give it a try this year.

Building Your Own Homeschool Yearbook? Easy Steps to Success!

A Closer Look at the Problem and Its Inevitable Consequences

In early April 2013, one of the largest public school cheating scandals was brought to light in Atlanta. 35 school teachers and administrators turned themselves in to authorities and were indicted on charges of cheating by falsifying test scores. Investigators say fear and intimidation were the originating cause for the terrible lapse in ethics.

According to Lynn Stout, a special contributor to the Los Angeles Times, “They were ordinary people who allegedly did unethical and dishonest things to achieve the student performance targets needed to keep their jobs and earn their bonuses. The Atlanta cheating scandal illustrates the dangers of the modern infatuation with incentives and what is called “pay for performance.”

Pay For Performance Epidemic

The No Child Left Behind initiative, although instituted with good intentions, has brought with it a hailstorm of negative effects as well. Performance incentives – as were instituted within the Atlanta school district at the center of the latest allegations – which tie a teacher’s pay scale to test scores, are causing a system which only encourages illegal or illicit behavior, with no way to measure the negative consequences to a child’s education.

How Many Schools Cheat?

As more and more scandals come to light, it’s becoming impossible to say. According to a study by the Data Recognition Corporation, irregularities were found within the test scores of 60 Pennsylvania schools alone, 29 of which were in Philadelphia. A 52 point spike in math scores and a 51 point increase in reading at the impoverished Roosevelt Middle School prompted a tighter control over testing procedure. The following year, scores plummeted once again.

In 2005, a Bronx, NY school astoundingly improved 4th grade reading scores from a meager 36% proficiency to an 83% proficiency. The principal, Elba Lopez, promptly retired after receiving a $15K bonus. The following year, scores tanked once again.

These are merely two additional examples. It would take pages to list each one. What’s obvious is that there is one gigantic problem running rampant. And who is hurting the most? Our Children.

Obama’s Core Curriculum

In light of all these scandals and public school failures, the solution becomes another curriculum grab by the federal government. This is known as “The Common Core of State Standards.” According to reporter Robert Nemeth, “It is to be accomplished through enforcing a national curriculum, bypassing parents, state and local school boards, and dictating what students will and will not learn. Because federal laws explicitly prohibit the central government from directing, funding or controlling any state and local education standard, the White House uses surrogates — commissions and foundations — as well as immense financial pressure to coerce the states to go along with the change.”

Our Solution

I think that most of us agree that homeschooling our children puts the control over a child’s education in the very best hands – our own loving ones. We have no incentives other than to see our children well educated, successful, and happy adult individuals. We have the freedom to pursue a curriculum that meets individual interests, nurtures God-given talents, and allows the parent to evaluate any special needs or difficulties that arise.

The homeschool trend is growing with leaps and bounds for a very good reason – we love our children and we want their ultimate success – the old fashioned way. And THAT is true INCENTIVE!

Cheating in Traditional Schools: Is it An Epidemic?

At times, being a homeschool family can become enormously overwhelming. It can begin to feel like chaos. Nothing seems to go right. Curriculum choices are hard. Scheduling is even harder. Money dries up, and budget belts tighten. Children feel the tension, and respond in kind. You begin to walk the frightening line of lost faith.

We want to introduce you to a family who has been through all of these difficulties, and yet prevailed with love and faith. Meet Kimberly Hannah, and her 12 year old daughter Rachael, along with husband Curtis and young daughters Janae and baby Danaek. They have much to share!

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“I have found, without exception, that when I seek God first thing in the morning and then start the school day by praising Jesus in worship and prayer, our day goes as it should – not because there are never difficulties, but because our hearts are focused on Him.

There is a saying that goes something like this: ‘When you have a BIG God, you have little problems, but when you make God LITTLE in your life, then your problems seem to become very big.’ It’s a matter of perspective. It’s a matter of faith.” ~Kimberly Hannah

The Beginning

Kimberly and Curtis Hannah were Canadian by birth, but later moved to the US West Coast over 13 years ago. As working parents, they made the decision to enroll their oldest child Rachael in private Christian school, having heard about the difficulties many children face in traditional schools, and having both been to public schools themselves. It was not an easy undertaking financially. They became even more strained upon moving to Pennsylvania with increased living costs and the addition of two children, Jenae (now 3) and Danaek (4 months). However, the desire for all their children to receive a Christian education was of utmost importance.

The Transition

For the Hannah family, the transition into homeschooling their children was not easy or smooth, at first.

“Rachael was sad to leave her friends again; we as parents felt guilt over changing her life dramatically once more. It was tough at first. She still misses seeing her friends as much as she used to. I would say the “social” change has been the hardest for her. For me, it was the concern over whether I would fail her. I remembered, years ago, hearing friends of ours say that they homeschooled their kids and I would think, “I could never do that, I’m too impatient” and “I have my nursing career.”

Through the support of her husband Curtis, and her strong faith that God would lead her on this journey, Kimberly found the strength and fortitude to prevail. According to Kim, she has learned to be flexible and to not try to put a square peg in a circle. “If something doesn’t work, quit trying to push it, look for a door to open elsewhere. Maybe the thing we want to do will eventually work out, whether it’s at another time or season in life. This has been another wonderful concept Jesus has taught me this year.”

Bridgeway Support

The Hannah’s were assigned Bridgeway’s Lisa Ott as an advisor. All anxieties about the transition faded with the guidance provided by Lisa, including forms, grading techniques, and tracking records.

“Every question I have had for her, she has graciously and patiently answered. Not once have I felt put down or foolish in front of her. She either already knows the answer, or is quick to find it. I also love the fact that when I was starting and felt overwhelmed, Bridgeway sent the forms and affidavits I would need to send to the school superintendent. Because of the Bridgeway “way” of doing school, my stress level was decreased substantially. I was also thrilled with the fact that they have Christian curriculum options…it was a deciding factor.”

Rachael’s Bridgeway journey started with placement testing and Bridgeway’s Learning Style Assessment Test to help determine Rachael’s preferences and style. Her strengths were discussed and an appropriate curriculum was selected. The Hannah’s had the flexibility to design a curriculum that worked for their daughter. For example, Rachael expressed a love for Zoology, so the Hannah’s incorporated several science courses. Since Rachael lacked confidence in mathematics (even though she scored high for mathematics during placement testing), the Hannah’s decided to take it slow with math and have Rachael do repetitive work.

Biblical Reinforcement and Community

“Each of Rachael’s classes have a Biblical reference, but also talk about what is taught secularly; I love the explanations and examples that are given. It is “in line” with what we as parents are teaching Rachael, so it is a great reinforcement of the things of God.”

Rachael is also very involved at the family’s church, “Rise Up.” She plays the box drum (in the percussion group) with her friend Tim and the worship band. She also loves participating in youth group on Sunday evenings. The group does a variety of sports together, plus there is a “mini” Bible lesson before everyone leaves for home. The youth group has allowed Rachael to be a part of a bigger community of believers in the same faith.

Extra-Curricular Activities

The Hannah’s are no strangers to busy schedules! Rachael has discovered that she loves art, and has aspirations to be an artist or computer animator when she grows up. Unfortunately, when Rachael went to private school, all she was allowed was 30 minutes once per week to pursue her passion. There were many days when she would come home with mounds of homework that left little time for family and the pursuit of her dreams. Now, because the Hannah’s are homeschooling, Rachael goes to art class once per week for 1.5 hours and loves it passionately. She also takes guitar lessons weekly.

The Hannah’s are also active in many different sports through their local YMCA. Why all this activity? Simple. They follow the philosophy that “You can’t know if you don’t like something until you’ve tried it!” Through the YMCA, Rachael has participated in cardio kickboxing, swimming, volleyball, running, and some weight-lifting.

Looking to the Future

Rachael is eager to continue along her homeschool journey. She would like to fast track her studies, and shape them so that she can pursue her art-related career goals. Her mom Kimberly is excited about the future as well since she realizes that her choices and perseverance have taught her more than she could ever have hoped.

“Personally, not only as a mom but as a human being, I am thankful to God for homeschooling; He has used it as His tool of choice to teach me. Not that I have arrived at perfection (by no means!), but He has taught me patience, compassion, understanding, listening with the heart, forgiveness, and what is most valuable in this life. I have never felt more fulfilled since starting this homeschooling journey. I am so thankful for every struggle we have been through, because Jesus has used it to refine me.”

Love, Faith, and Resourcefulness is the Key to Homeschooling Success – Meet the Hannah Family

Preparing for the SAT’s just isn’t what it used to be when we were kids. It’s truly a jungle out there. Nowadays, there are many forms of standardized tests – all technically used to level the playing field as far as eligibility for college and scholarships.

But as usual, when technology AND choices expand with leaps and bounds, confusion is soon to follow. How do homeschooled teens know when, where, how, and what kind of test they need to take?

Standardized Tests and College Admissions

In most cases, admissions officers utilize standardized test scores as only one of many factors in their decision making process. What officers most want to see is that test scores correlate with a student’s GPA. In fact, a recent report from the National Association of College Admissions Counselors cites test scores as the 3rd most important factor in the admissions process, “behind grades in college prep courses and the quality of the student’s high school curriculum.” The importance of a student’s overall GPA, application essay, and class rank fall behind standardized testing.

So, while standardized test scores are not the #1 deciding factor for college admissions, they are still pretty important in the admissions game. Knowing when and how to take them can be a big benefit.

ACT Versus SAT – Which Way to Go?

Which one should you choose? If you opt to take both tests just for safety’s sake, you may be throwing away time and resources, as most colleges do not have a preference. The key is to determine which test is best suited to your skill set and personality type – this is actually the reason that two different tests exist.

• Students who just naturally seem adept at test-taking may thrive with the SAT. According to Jessica Tomer, editor of Private Schools and Colleges Magazine, “The SAT is an analytical and reasoning test, and while you’ll definitely need to know how to use equations to survive the math section, you really can’t study well for the SAT. Memorizing your textbooks won’t help.”
• If memorization is your thing, then ACT may be the test for you. “If you’re a nose-to-the-grindstone kind of student who studies like crazy, you could have an advantage when taking the ACT because it tests your knowledge,” said Tomer.

Pre-Testing – Yes or No?

Official practice tests like the PSAT (SAT) and PLAN (ACT) can help you gauge your performance when it’s time for the real deal. The results aren’t shared with colleges so you have nothing to lose by taking these tests. Practicing with timed tests is a great option, if you have the time and monetary resources. And the PSAT can be important as it’s the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test Tool. Don’t delay – these tests are typically taken in the sophomore or early junior year of high school.

You can often prepare on your own by buying books of complete past tests, and taking them to discover your weaknesses. While you can’t really “study” for the SAT, you can improve your vocabulary with online flashcard tools or programs, and lots of reading.

SAT and ACT FACTS

SAT

• Tests reasoning, analytical, and problem solving skills
• Takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes
• Maximum Scores – 800 for Critical Reading and 800 for Math
• Cost – about $50

ACT

• Tests knowledge of curriculum, comprehension, and analytical skills
• Takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes with the optional Writing section (take!)
• Maximum Score – 36
• Cost – about $35

When to Take?

The SAT website has produced a comprehensive high school SAT planning system to get you organized and prepared for when and what to take. The site recommends that the SAT is taken in the spring of the junior year, and again in the fall of the senior year if you wish to attempt to improve your scoring.

It’s never too early to start your standardized test planning and college admissions strategy. Remember, AP or College Prep coursework, as well as quality accomplishments also need to be a part of your focus.

SAT’s, ACT’s, PLAN’s? How to Navigate the Standardized Test Jungle

Nearly every teen feels the need to fit in and be a part of a larger social community. And usually, there comes a point when this need becomes more of a craving – it’s an important part of maturing and preparing to leave the family “nest.”

If you are feeling the sting of what you call “isolation,” don’t stress yourself. There are plenty of ways to put yourself in the path of like-minded others and possibly build some fantastic friendships along the way.

Here are 8 simple tips for social success.

1. Community College Classes

Guess what? You’ve got a flexible schedule – and that is awesome because this flexibility allows you the time to take extra courses at your community college if you want to get ahead or challenge yourself. This is an excellent option for earning college credits and bolstering applications, but homeschooled teens can also use this as a social opportunity – meeting others of similar age who have the same interests and drive.

2. Afterschool Clubs & Organizations

Some homeschool families are excluded from their school district extra-curricular activities. But there are ALWAYS numerous other clubs available where your school colors mean naught. Try out 4-H (not just farming!), Drama, Young Marines, Sierra Club, Scouting, or even Anime clubs in your area.

3. Team Sports

Again, some school districts don’t allow homeschoolers to join school teams, but there are often sports teams in any area that are not affiliated with any one district. Gymnastics, dance, swimming, martial arts, and many other opportunities abound.

4. Volunteer Work

Community service is a valuable form of social networking, while giving back to others. Is there a local food bank where you can stock shelves or fill boxes with other volunteers? Or perhaps a senior citizen’s center or a soup kitchen nearby? Here’s an opportunity that gives you a chance to do some good, learn new skills, and focus outward toward others.

5. Homeschool Co-Ops & Group Activities

Co-ops and group activities are fast becoming the norm in many areas around the country. Make sure you look around at your options – even if you have to drive a little, it can be quite worth it. Sometimes it is easier to meld into groups where there are other homeschoolers that understand more about homeschooling and hold similar house rules.

6. Online Community

Of course, there’s the Internet. There are millions of fun and safe ways for you to socialize on the Internet – with adequate parental oversight. Online courses in real time are also a great way to grab a bit of that social link. Bridgeway’s Learning Labs are a great option. According to student Christopher Stamper, “for a homeschooled kid like me, there is not a lot of outside interaction during the school day and this class has brought some new faces into my life.”

7. Start Your Own Activity/Club

You can do it yourself!  Remember not to limit yourself – it doesn’t have to be strictly homeschooled kids. Look for others interested in starting a teen book group at your local library. Or try working with an established organization that doesn’t yet have a teen presence and get them to be more inclusive of younger people – especially homeschoolers.

8. Learn How to Talk to Public School Kids.

Sometimes reaching out to others who are not homeschooled can be intimidating, and you can even be met with criticism or hostile remarks. But it can’t hurt you to try! Many traditional school kids have preconceived notions about what homeschooling is and means, and it is up to you to break those stereotypes. Do it with a relaxed sense of humor, and not a chip on your shoulder. It will work wonders.

Being a homeschooled teen does not need to be a lonely endeavor. If you follow the tips and tools we’ve listed above, you may soon find yourself too busy to spend a single evening alone!

Homeschool Teens: Feel Isolated? Tips and Tools for Social Success

Applying for college is a hair-pulling, nail-biting time of life for both parents and students alike. You know there are mistakes and pitfalls, just as you know there are secrets to help pave your way. But nothing about the process is cut and dry – actually, the waters around the admissions process are always a bit muddy.

Here are 6 Go-To Admissions Tips for College-bound Hopefuls

1. Answer All Optional Questions. Optional answers should not be passed over because you are tired of filling out forms. They are the perfect opportunity to give your application that special boost in the eyes of an admissions officer. Think of it as extra credit – the kind you really need to get a slam dunk A on a test.
2. Have an Appropriate Email Address. Is the email you’ve been using with your friends not all-together…mature? Email is fast becoming the communication of choice between colleges and students, so make sure yours isn’t something like “honeybuns757.” It only takes a couple of minutes to open a new account, so make sure you pick something appropriate.
3. Demonstrate Interest in the School Before Applying. If two applicants have similar credentials and achievements, but only one has previously shown an interest in the school, guess who is likely to get picked? It’s easy to demonstrate interest. Simply visit the college’s website and fill out an online inquiry form, schedule a visit (and make sure you include the name of the person you’ve met with), or speak in person with a school representative at a college fair.
4. Don’t Use the “Score Choice”  Option When you Take the ACT or SAT. When taking these particular tests, you have the option of listing a limited number of colleges to which you can send your test scores for free. Yet, if you wait to see what your scores are first, you will be charged to send them. Kids often hesitate to send their scores, thinking “what if my score isn’t the greatest?” However, most colleges consider those who have chosen to have their scores sent to them directly and confidently among their “hottest prospects,” particularly those who send them in advance – even the spring of their junior year. These students will receive information about school programs, scholarship opportunities, off-campus interviews, and many other goodies.
5. Don’t Dismiss the Supplemental Application. If the college you are applying to has a supplemental application – take it seriously. It can be just as important as the main application (sometimes called the Common Application.) Colleges request supplemental applications or personal statements/essays for a very good reason. Even if you’ve already written an essay during the main portion of the application, a supplemental essay can set you apart from the competition, and even put you in the running for special programs or scholarships.
6. Provide Your Cell Number and Social Security Information. Although privacy and identity theft are important issues, your college application is not the time to balk at divulging information. Colleges communicate by cell, and you want to be available for any call. Furthermore, if you fail to provide your social security number, colleges are not able to download your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If eligible, you would miss out on a need-based aid package, including any government grants or loans.

These tips should get you started in the direction of a confident, successful, and fully rounded college application that will gain the attention of admissions. As a homeschool student, your application is truly an opportunity to shine, and showcase your talents.  Seize the moment!

College Admissions: 6 Must-Do Tips for Success!

This Bridgeway Academy Student Has Traveled the Globe and Widened Her Horizons – Considerably!

Born in the foreign land of Manama, Bahrain, while her father served abroad in the U.S. military, Caroline McClelland is no stranger to the diversity and experiences found in foreign lands. As her parents moved from country to country, Caroline and her two siblings bounced back and forth between different forms of schooling depending on their wants and needs at the time.

First enrolled in a French school (or mon école, she described), Caroline developed her love of the French language. After a short stint in an American public elementary school, she moved to homeschooling for its flexibility, but then decided to give public middle school a try once again. She is finishing out high school as a homeschooler – again for the ability it provided her to pursue acting and fashion, and the ability for Caroline to complete college level courses, all while still in high school.

A Passion for Acting

Back in the States, Caroline’s love for acting was cultivated when she joined the VOX Theatre Production Company shortly after she turned eleven. Before joining, she watched the company’s performance of the King and I, and immediately became enthralled with the arts.

The thrill of being on stage and the joy Caroline felt when performing has inspired her to continue with this passion. Since then, she has gone on to compete in various acting competitions as well as participating in the background for movies, short films and theater productions. She hopes to become a film director, as the works of Bruno Aveillan and Joe Wright have inspired her immensely.

A Passion for Style

Caroline’s love of fashion came about as a result of her being exposed to the various brands surrounding her while living in Dubai for a time. According to Caroline, the women there can be some serious fashionistas! Caroline now works at a boutique that consigns luxury clothes, and has become very familiar with many trendy and classic brands. She definitely enjoys her job of creating outfits to post on the blog and assists in the design of the storefront and interior decor!

A Trip to Seoul

After acting as a host family to a Korean exchange student in 2012 (who Caroline now counts as a wonderful friend), Caroline learned of the many opportunities to study and travel abroad to either France, Germany, Korea, or South America through the exchange committee known as Sister Cities. Though she lived in Asia/Middle East for most of her life, she never had the chance to venture to Korea, so in the summer of 2012, she flew to Korea with five other students and had a phenomenal cultural experience. The trip provided her with a sense of independence as her group navigated through customs and the language barrier. Caroline feels that her travels abroad are expanding her horizons and keeping her globally connected!

Current Studies – College Bound!

Caroline is currently taking advanced French college courses concurrently while finishing her high school degree as well as other college-level courses such as Pre-Calculus/Calculus and Trigonometry. She hopes to seriously boost her SAT power. College representatives have also informed Caroline of the significance of taking college courses early when possible. A student who has already successfully taken a college class shows concrete results that he or she can commit on a college-level basis, as well as understand the information provided.

Caroline hopes to begin the college admission process this summer. Although her heart is set on good ole NYU, she also intends on applying to Columbia, Parsons School of Design, Pepperdine, UCLA, and possibly Yale and Vanderbilt. Although she is artistic and design-oriented, it seems Caroline also has a passion for history and politics!

Caroline McClelland Traverses the Big Wide World

Many Parents Feel That Sharing Workload and Expertise is a Great Option

It sounds like a simple question, but unfortunately, the legalities of homeschooling children from other families, or forming homeschooling family co-ops can be a tricky matter. As with most legal issues regarding homeschooling, rules and regulations vary by state. And depending on your situation (for instance, are you sharing tasks with other parents, or simply teaching children who are not your own?) the wording can become important.

Let’s Break It Down

The types of situations you may encounter when toying with the idea of homeschooling children outside of your family or jointly homeschooling with other parents can fall into several categories. The most popular and commonly seen are:

• Homeschool Co-Op. Gathering of parents that homeschool and voluntarily share teaching responsibilities with each other. The division of responsibilities depends on the talents of the individuals involved.

• Small Private School. Learning environment with a private teacher hired on by parents to teach several students. The private teacher cannot be a parent to any students involved. This scenario is considered a business that should be filed as such, and have written agreements in place. Although, in some states, homeschools in themselves are considered private schools from the onset.

• Paid Tutor. Formal, paid agreements between parents to homeschool children outside of the family in conjunction with their own. This happens often with working homeschool parents. This is legal in SOME states, but you must do your research.

The Homeschool Legal Defense Association‘s (HSLDA) Take

In questions of legality with all the varying states, the Homeschool Legal Defense Association is often the trusted “go-to” source of information for homeschooling families. Their take on the issue of homeschooling children who are not your own is simply this:

“It depends on the homeschool law for your state. Please read it carefully to determine whether you may homeschool a child who is not yours. Even if homeschooling someone else’s child is legal in your state, HSLDA will not defend your right to teach a child other than your own. This is because our mission is to defend and advance the constitutional right of parents to direct the upbringing and education of their own children.”

Laws by State

The HSLDA is your best place to start searching for what you can and cannot do within your state. The organization does require your email and state to obtain access to their databases. Another avenue to try would be to Google for forum posts on the topic. You can take a peek at what other parents may have already uncovered, although an internet posting should not be taken as legal advice!

The answer you find may be yes, no, or even a little bit. For instance, in New York, the “majority” of homeschool teaching must come from the child’s parents. So, during the course of a week, if someone else homeschools your children for two days, then you must homeschool at least three days to comply with NY statutes.

Within Pennsylvania, the law states the parent is the homeschool supervisor, which does not necessarily mean the “teacher,” but the parent is the “responsible party,” leaving some wiggle room. Several other states simply classify a homeschool as a private school from the get-go. In Kansas homeschools are designated as “unaccredited private schools,” so you can homeschool other peoples’ children because a homeschool is considered a private school.

In Summary

It may be a bit frustrating trying to find a clear-cut answer when you first start out. Make sure you research the most reliable sources of information available to you, and don’t just go on what you heard your neighbor say. What we do know is that homeschooling is an ever-growing trend, and is steadily gaining ground and respect in every state, every year. That’s why Bridgeway continues to grow, reach more students and parents, and provide the best curriculums out there for your children. Continue onward with your quest!

Joint Homeschooling: Is It Legal to Homeschool Children Other Than Your Own?

If you are planning to leave home for college in the upcoming year, you are probably wondering if it will be the epic adventure of your dreams or your worst nightmare. If you are well prepared and have a pretty good idea of how your daily grind will shake out once you settle in, it certainly can be a mighty powerful AND enjoyable time of your life. However, if you’re nervous, unsure of your class selections, anxious about meeting your new roommate, or just fearful of new situations in general – college can be a bit stressful to prepare for.

5 Tips to Make the Transition from Homeschooling to College a Success

1. Leave with an open mind. You WILL meet others – both students and teachers – who will exasperate and confound you, or even anger you. Walk out your door knowing that you will have the patience and maturity to let things roll off your shoulders when you need them to. And know that it’s ok for others to have varying opinions, wants or needs in life. They may not have the family support you do. Broaden your mind and remember– diversity makes life interesting!
2. Don’t be shy. The majority of freshman students will know virtually no one else when they embark on their own college journey, and you might find that meeting people is actually pretty easy if you put yourself out there. There’s no more “traditional school versus homeschool” to worry about. You’re all on the same footing. Leave your door open when you can, and smile a lot!
3. Don’t be intimidated by Profs. If you have become very used to independent learning, or learning with your mom/dad at your shoulder, having brand new teaching styles thrust upon you can give you a bit of shock. Professors, along with teaching assistants, often will set up “office hours,” so you can personally get to know them. Take advantage of this opportunity and stop by to say hello. They’re people too.
4. Don’t worry about missing home too much. You won’t. The initial week or two may be tough, but you are lucky enough to live in a world of Skype, FaceTime, social media, and unlimited cell phone minutes and texts. You will be able to stay connected, while allowing yourself the time and space to explore a whole new world and way of learning. Pump yourself up, because it WILL be awesome.
5. Remember that it’s going to hurt your parents too. Be extra kind to mom and dad. This will probably be the hardest adjustment for them since the first night you came home from the hospital. Let them worry, fuss, and help, and stay positive for them. There is nobody else who wants your success more than they do!

So get ready, get set, and get going. You WILL succeed at college because you are well-prepared, have already mastered self-study, and have the home support that many others may not. See, you are already ahead of the game!

Teens: 5 Tips to Make the Transition from Homeschooling to College a Success