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.
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| Why Homeschool? |
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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.
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| Where to Begin |
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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 Louisiana.
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| Legal/Homeschool Laws |
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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.
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| History of Homeschooling in America |
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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.
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Estimated Number of Homeschooled Students in the United States |
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Both the number and the proportion of students in the United States who were being homeschooled increased between 1999 and 2003. Approximately 1.1 million students (1,096,000) were being homeschooled in the United States in the spring of 2003, an increase from the estimated 850,000 students who were being homeschooled in the spring of 1999. In addition, the percentage of the entire student population who were being homeschooled increased from 1.7 percent in 1999 to 2.2 percent in 2003. |
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Home Schooling: Our Chance to Make a Difference |
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Jim Sevy |
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A look at some of the reasons to pull a child from public school. This family of seven children found that the benefits of homeschooling were significant compared to the disadvantages of public schooling. |
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Socialization: A Great Reason Not to Go to School |
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Karl M. Bunday |
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This "Learn in Freedom" article provides research supporting the positive socialization homeschooled children receive. Discusses research supporting the conclusion that homeschooled children have higher levels of self-esteem and communication skills, and fewer behavioral problems, than other children. |
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How Rulings in Homeschooling Custody Cases Affect Us All |
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Larry and Susan Kaseman |
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Homeschooling sometimes becomes an issue for a divorced homeschooling parent whose ex-spouse opposes it. Homeschoolers who turn such conflicts over to attorneys and the courts find that most attorneys and judges know little about homeschooling and many are biased against it. Judges often rule that parents can only homeschool if they agree to do more than is required by the state homeschooling law. This can be a serious blow to families. It also sets legal precedents that give the state greater control over homeschooling and undermine the homeschooling freedoms of all of us. Fortunately, homeschoolers involved in custody disputes and their supporters can work to prevent this from happening. We can minimize such precedents by working to ensure that court cases are decided on the basis of the law and not the biases and prejudices of attorneys and judges. |
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