Home schooling your child while on the road in the USA can be a difficult and challenging task. While many parents choose to hire an online tutor, others want to try and figure it out on their own.
But how do you navigate the various laws covering home schooling and make sure your child is receiving a good education while also getting to experience all the adventure of travel? This article provides an overview of the process and answers fifteen frequently asked questions to give you a better idea of what it takes to homeschool while on the go.
What is Homeschooling?
Homeschooling is an educational approach that parents use to teach their children lessons, skills and concepts outside of the conventional school system. Homeschooling is also referred to as home education, and it is becoming increasingly popular in the United States.
Home schooling eliminates the need to commute to a traditional educational institute and allows children and parents to structure their own curriculum and schedule.
What are the Benefits of Homeschooling?
Homeschooling has a range of benefits for both children and parents, including the following: Flexible curriculum and schedule – with homeschooling, parents can choose the curriculum and teaching methods best-suited for their child and tailor the pace to suit their abilities.
Cost-effective – homeschooling often requires significantly fewer supplies and teaching aids than a traditional school setting.
Life skills – homeschooling allows parents to blend academic lessons with life skills, such as problem solving and self-control.
Tailored learning – with homeschooling, parents can customize the curriculum and teaching methods to meet the specific needs and learning styles of their child.
What Are the Requirements for Homeschooling in the U.S.?
Homeschooling requirements vary by state but typically include 1) requirements to register the homeschool, 2) filing yearly paperwork documenting the student’s progress, 3) regular assessments, and 4) maintaining a regular school schedule. It’s important to note that states will often require additional documentation and paperwork if a family is homeschooling while traveling in the United States.
What Are the Laws Governing Homeschooling While Traveling?
While homeschooling laws vary significantly by state, all states are subject to the same set of federal laws. Under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, states are required to provide equal educational opportunities for all students, including for students who are homeschooled. In addition, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures that all students, including those homeschooled, have access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE).
This means that home schooled students have the right to receive educational services for special education, access to different educational resources, and the freedom to participate in activities along with their peers.
What Resources Are Available to Parents Homeschooling While Traveling?
There are a variety of online and print resources available to help parents homeschool while traveling. Online resources include websites such as Khan Academy and Time4Learning, which offer comprehensive curricula tailored to student ages and abilities.
Local libraries and homeschool co-ops are great places to start when trying to build a homeschool curriculum. Parents can also take advantage of specialized legal and educational consultants to help them navigate homeschooling laws, understand FAPE requirements, and locate local resources.
Are There Any Special Requirements for Homeschooling Overseas?
Homeschooling overseas may require additional paperwork and legal requirements. For example, some countries may require U.
S. citizens homeschooling overseas to hold a work or residence permit. It’s important to research homeschooling laws in the countries you plan to visit and to consider the impact of U.
S. laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Can Homeschooled Students Participate in Extracurricular Activities?
Yes, many states allow for homeschooled students to participate in extracurricular activities. However, individual states can have different rules and regulations regarding this matter, so it’s important to research your state’s laws before enrolling in any activities.
Are There Social Opportunities for Homeschooled Students?
Yes, many homeschoolers participate in extracurricular activities and programs, such as sports and clubs, which offer opportunities to build social skills, friendships and resume-building experiences. There are also summer camps and online programs specifically designed for homeschooled students.
How Can Parents Ensure that Standards Are Being Met?
Homeschool standards, such as those outlined in the U. S.
Department of Education’s No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), are designed to ensure that students are receiving an adequate education. Parents who are homeschooling while traveling can ensure that standards are being met by keeping detailed records, ensuring that curricula is challenging for their student, and having the student take standardized tests on a regular basis.
What About College Admissions for Homeschooled Students?
Many colleges and universities accept applications from home schooled students. Before applying, however, homeschoolers should understand the various application policies and admission requirements of the schools they’re applying to.
Also, it’s important to research any scholarships or tuition waivers that may be available to homeschooled students.
What Resources Are Available to Prepare for College Admissions?
Several online resources are available to help homeschooled students prepare for college admissions, including the College Board, The Princeton Review, and the Academic Success Center. In addition, local libraries and bookstores often have a variety of college admission and test preparation guides.
Are There Any Resources to Help Explain Homeschool Laws?
Yes, numerous online resources are available to help parents understand and navigate the laws governing homeschooling in their state. Several national websites, such as the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) and the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI), provide information on homeschool laws, as well as access to legal advisors.
How Can Parents Project Plan to Homeschool While Traveling?
Project planning is an essential step in homeschooling while traveling. The first step is to create a schedule that outlines the times and locations when education will take place.
It’s also important to create a budget for supplies and activities, research local laws and resources, and create a plan for the student to stay connected to their peers. Additionally, it’s essential to pack any essential teaching aids, such as educational books, laptop, or tablet.
Conclusion
Home schooling in the United States can be a rewarding and exciting experience for both parents and children. But it is important to understand the laws and regulations governing homeschooling, know the resources available to you, and make sure that you create a project plan that covers all of your needs while on the road. With a little bit of research, planning and preparation, parents can ensure that their child has the best possible educational experience while on the go.