Should Homeschoolers Compete against Other Students?

The Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) reports that a recent city festival in Shreveport Louisiana recently tried to bar homeschoolers from competing in the yearly competitions because they thought it would be unfair to the children that went to public school. They did not say exactly how it would be unfair, only that they felt it was. I have to wonder if the officials thought is unfair because a large number of homeschoolers had won in the past, including the young lady who won first place at the vocal competition. Perhaps the officials suddenly decided that after years of homeschoolers … Continue reading

Reasons I am Glad I Homeschool: Trigonometry

Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) recently reported an incident where a homeschooling family was threatened and intimidated by a juvenile worker and social worker. One of the questions they asked, while threatening to remove the children from the home was “Are you capable of teaching your kids trigonometry.” While they were wrong to ask that question, and the harassment was quickly ended, I had to ask myself the same thing. Can I teach my child trigonometry? No, I cannot. On the other hand, I can make sure she gets a good and proper teacher. My personal experience with Trigonometry … Continue reading

Should You Join HSLDA?

For those of you who don’t know, HSLDA stands for the Homeschool Legal Defense Alliance. Many Christian families join HSLDA for legal ‘protection’, should the need arise. Many other families are completely against HSLDA and what it stands for because it is exclusive. Still others feel like it is a waste of money because they live in “lax” states. Every year around this time, this topic comes up in our homeschooling group. This is what I always tell new homeschooling parents: Why You Should Join HSLDA. . . HSLDA is (in their own words) an advocacy organization. This means that … Continue reading

Homeschooling in California: Option 1

Homeschooling in California: Option 1 *Before I begin this article regarding homeschooling options for California, I want to begin by stating that it is your responsibility to research the law for yourself. I am relaying the available and current information that is subject to change. I have provided many links that will enable you to view the current laws online and to help put you in touch with local area and organizational support groups. * There are four different options for legal homeschooling in California. This article will focus on Option 1, but I will give a brief overview of … Continue reading