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 New York.
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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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Primer on Individual Lobbying |
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This is a list of tips for effective lobbying. Includes ways to lobby, things you can do now, and how to connect with other lobbyists. |
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The Politics of Survival: Home Schoolers and the Law |
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Scott W. Somerville, Esq. |
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Twenty years ago, home education was treated as a crime in almost every state. Today, it is legal all across America, despite strong and continued opposition from many within the educational establishment. How did this happen? This paper traces the legal and sociological history of the modern home school movement, and then suggests factors that led to this movement's remarkable success.
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National Home Education Legal Defense (NHELD) |
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National Home Education Legal Defense was founded by Attorney Deborah G. Stevenson as a non-sectarian legal support organization. NHELD offers its members legal assistance by an attorney licensed to practice in your state working with NHELD licensed attorneys. Members are also kept apprised of pending legislative action, scholarship programs, and other programs beneficial to homeschoolers. |
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Does Homeschooling Research Help Homeschooling |
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Larry & Susan Kaseman |
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Homeschoolers sometimes feel uncertain when faced with a request that they participate in a research study being done on homeschooling. On one hand, they are pleased with the growing interest in homeschooling, glad that the value and importance of homeschooling is finally being recognized and acknowledged. They want to do anything they can to help homeschooling. But something makes them uneasy. How will this research affect homeschooling, they wonder? What are the potential pitfalls and problems? This article discusses research that is based on gathering and manipulation of information about homeschoolers' behavior, values, personal data (age, income, educational background, etc.), history, use of curriculum, test scores, opinions, attitudes, beliefs, needs, and desires with the intent of making generalizations about homeschooling and homeschoolers. The focus is on this kind of research since it poses risks for homeschoolers. |
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