- It still carries the stigma of being a high school dropout (even if you are not);
- The military will not accept a person with a GED;
- Some employers will not consider hiring applicants with a GED, and
- When filling out forms, homeschoolers with a GED cannot check that they have a high school diploma.
- DriversEd.com
Attn: Virginia Home Study Course
436 14th Street, Suite 420
Oakland, CA 94612
1-888-651-2886
www.DriversEd.com - I Drive Safely
294 LaMoree Road
San Marcos, CA 92078
1-800-723-1955
www.idrivesafely.com - National Driver Training Institute
4432 Austin Bluffs Parkway
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80918-2934
1-800-942-2050
www.usdrivertraining.com - VADETS OnLine Driver Education Course
Virginia Association of Driver Education and Traffic Safety
A non-profit Virginia association for driver education teachers
(804) 512-0101
www.vadriveredu.org - show evidence of a high school diploma (attach a copy of your diploma or transcript, or higher degree), or
- submit your Virginia teacher certification, (attach documentation) or
- provide a program of study or a curriculum that may be delivered through a correspondence course or distance learning program or in any other manner (attach an acceptance letter or evidence of payment), or
- show evidence that you are able to provide an adequate education for your child. (Carefully write a grammatically correct letter stating why you are able to provide a good education for your child.)
- You may mail the “Notice of Intent” form and attachments to your division superintendent. If you mail it “certified, return-receipt,” you will have a record of the date the superintendent received your notice. After the date of receipt, you may withdraw your child from school without concern for truancy issues.
- You may also hand-deliver the “Notice of Intent” form to your superintendent’s office. In this case, ask for a hand-written receipt.
GED vs. Diploma
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. Should my child take the GED exams?
A. Although a GED credential can be earned by a homeschool graduate, HEAV does not recommend a GED for several reasons:
Because homeschooling is more accepted now–accepted by the military, community colleges, four-year colleges, and employees–HEAV recommends a parent-generated diploma in lieu of a GED.
Yvonne Bunn @ February 1, 2012 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (0)
Schools Offering Spring Testing Clarification
Note: This was received in response to the “School District Offers Testing–What Are My Options?” Q&A published last week.
I would like to clarify the section on ‘schools offering spring testing as an option’. We offer testing, at no cost, as an ‘option’ and a service to our homeschool families. It is true that we do not offer re-testing in the school district, but it is certainly the parent’s choice to re-test their child at their own expense, and select another test if they choose, and submit those scores to the home instruction office.
Debra C. Gadberry
Home Instruction Specialist
Chesterfield County Public Schools
Yvonne Bunn @ January 31, 2012 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (0)
School District Offers Testing—What Are My Options?
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. I received a letter from my school district offering testing in April for my homeschooler. Is this a good option? What are my other choices?
A. Homeschooling parents are required to submit the results of a standardized achievement test or independent evaluation by August 1 each year if they have complied with §22.1-254.1 of the Virginia Code by filing a Notice of Intent or sending a letter to the school division.
A few school districts may offer free testing for homeschool students, but this is not your only option. If you test with a local public school, all sections of the test (language arts, mathematics, history, science) will be given, and the test results will go directly to the school, not to you. If your child should happen to score lower than expected because he is in a strange environment, or he is intimidated by a new situation or teacher, you will not have an opportunity to retest.
Parents have several other testing options. First, parents may choose ANY nationally normed standardized achievement test from a variety of tests such as the Stanford Achievement Test, the Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills (CTBS), the California Achievement Tests (CAT), the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS-TAP), Science Research Associates (SRA), or the Woodcock-Johnson Educational Battery, to name a few. Costs range from $25 to $50.
If you use a standardized achievement test, only the composite score for language arts and mathematics (the basic battery) must be submitted. The composite score includes all sub-tests for language arts and mathematics. Science and history test sections are not required. The student’s composite score must be in the fourth stanine or higher (23rd percentile) in order to continue homeschooling.
For students who may not do well on an achievement test, parents may submit an independent evaluation or present a portfolio to the division superintendent instead. If an independent evaluation or assessment is chosen, the evaluation letter must be completed by a person licensed to teach in any state, or a person with a master’s degree or higher in an academic discipline who has knowledge of the child’s academic progress. It must state that the child is achieving an adequate level of educational growth and progress. With an evaluation, the division superintendent or his designee will determine if the child is achieving an adequate level of educational growth and progress.
An evaluation or assessment may also include a report card or transcript from a community college or university, distance-learning program, or home-education correspondence school.
If you’re wondering where to purchase tests, HEAV has put together a list of companies offering tests for homeschoolers. We’ve also compiled a page listing counselors, testers, and tutors who have expressed an interest in working with homeschoolers.
Watch for more information in the spring in our Testing Update!
Regards,
Yvonne Bunn @ January 19, 2012 | General, Homeschool Q&A | Comments (0)
“Approved” Behind-the-Wheel Driver Education Courses
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. In order to teach the behind-the-wheel portion of driver education, I must show completion of an “approved correspondence course.” Which courses are “approved,” and where can I find them?
A. Getting a driver’s license for a teen can seem daunting, especially when looking at the forms, finding an approved course, and trying to follow the proper steps.
There are three basic steps for a teen to obtain a driver’s license:
1) Obtain a learner’s permit by passing a DMV vision-screening test and a two-part knowledge test,
2) Complete an approved classroom course and a behind-the-wheel driving course, and
3) Obtain a permanent driver’s license.
In order for a parent to teach their homeschooled teen the classroom and behind-the-wheel portions, the homeschooled student must currently be enrolled in a homeschool program acknowledged by the division superintendent.
All teens may take the classroom and behind-the-wheel portions of driver education at a public school, a private school, or a commercial driver-training school on a space-available basis. However, if a student is homeschooled, the homeschool parent may teach the classroom and behind-the wheel portions. In this situation, the parent may choose one of four approved classroom courses. There is only one approved parent-taught behind-the-wheel course.
The following four classroom driver-education courses have been approved by the DOE for homeschooled students:
After completion of the classroom portion, homeschool parents who want to teach behind-the-wheel must use the only approved course: Module 11 – Behind-the-Wheel and In-Car Observation.
Links to the appropriate DMV forms, the cost, and more details can be found at the HEAV website here. Please call our office at 804-278-9200 if I can further help you.
With regards,
Yvonne Bunn @ January 10, 2012 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (0)
Steps to Begin
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. Can I start to homeschool now? If so, what steps should I take to begin?
A. Yes, you may begin homeschooling after the school year has begun. The Virginia homeschool statute (§22.1-254.1 (B)) states:
“Any parent who moves into a school division or begins home instruction after the school year has begun shall notify the division superintendent of his intentions to provide home instruction as soon as practicable and shall thereafter comply with the requirements of this section within thirty days of such notice.”
Here’s what you need to do:
1. Know the law! This is a critical step when beginning to homeschool. If you know the law, you will have confidence and know your rights as a parent. For complete information, visit the law section of the HEAV website. You’ll find links to the actual statute and tips on what you need to know. For a comprehensive overview of the choices you have, be sure to view the Law Flowchart.
2. Complete a “Notice of Intent” form or write a letter indicating how you have complied with the law.
You may download a “Notice of Intent to Provide Home Instruction” form here. On the form, choose one of the following options:
3. Include a description of your curriculum.
The law requires limited documentation of curriculum—just a description. To comply, you could write a brief description of what you intend to study during the year, or you could attach a list of subjects to be taught and the textbook titles. Your curriculum is not evaluated or approved by the superintendent; your description merely shows that a curriculum is in place
If your initial “Notice of Intent” does not include complete curriculum information because you are making still making curriculum decisions, you have 30 days from the initial notice to complete the requirements and fully comply with the law. However, once notice has been given in compliance with the statute, your family should be considered legal homeschoolers.
4. Notify your division superintendent.
There are two ways to notify your superintendent:
If you will be withdrawing your child from public school in order to begin homeschooling, it is important to file your “Notice of Intent” form with your local superintendent before withdrawing your child from public school. Once you have proof that the superintendent has received your homeschool notification, there should be no confusion about complying with school attendance laws. However, if you first take your child out of school, then notify the superintendent, it may raise truancy questions and could possibly result in a truancy investigation with fines up to $100 per day.
As a homeschooling parent, you are not applying for permission or seeking the superintendent’s approval to homeschool. You are simply notifying the superintendent’s office of your intent to provide for your child’s education in a manner already approved by the Virginia General Assembly. The law requires a parent to notify the superintendent of his intent to homeschool, but does not require a parent to wait for “approval” from the division superintendent before withdrawing a student from a traditional school and beginning to homeschool.
5. Contact a local support group in your area.
HEAV networks with more than 220 support groups throughout the state. Here is a list of groups and their contact information. Local support groups provide opportunities for student involvement in variety of activities, as well as encouragement for new homeschooling parents.
Please contact the HEAV office at 804-278-9200 if you have homeschool questions. Our staff and counselors will be glad to help you! You’re also welcome to join us for one of our upcoming Homeschool Success Seminars. With this information, you’ll be sure to get off to a great start!
Regards,
Yvonne Bunn @ January 5, 2012 | General, Homeschool Q&A | Comments (0)
Spelling Bee
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. Can homeschoolers participate in the Scripps National Spelling Bee? Where can I find information?
A. Scripps Howard and other newspapers sponsor spelling bees at elementary schools and homeschool support groups across the nation. Each year, students (ages 10-14) from public, private, home, and parochial schools aspire to compete in the final four rounds of the bee, which will be televised from Washington, D.C.
Homeschool students can participate through a local support group that has registered with the Scripps National Spelling Bee. If a homeschool student resides in an area where no homeschool association/group/co-op exists, the student’s family may enroll for a fee of $89. Homeschool students who reside in an area where no homeschool group exists should click here to complete a service request form to inquire about enrollment in their area.
According to Janice Liebenberg of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, “Homeschool groups may enroll at spellingbee.com to ensure their students are eligible to participate and to receive the materials needed to conduct spelling bees. During enrollment, bee coordinators receive details about their local bee program.” These details include local dates, deadlines, and participation guidelines.
The extended enrollment deadline is very near! The enrollment period was from August 16 through October 17, 2011, during which homeschool groups could register for a $109 materials and enrollment fee (this was the same price as for all other schools). The late enrollment period is October 18 through December 16, 2011. Groups enrolling during this period incur an additional $75 fee per group. Individual homeschoolers are also in the late registration period. Deadlines for joining a group will vary with each local group.
It’s not too late to contact the support groups in your area to see if they are registered to participate. You can find the support groups in your area here. You may also click on this link to find out if a support group in your zip code or in a nearby zip code is registered.
Eligibility guidelines and the Scripps National Spelling Bee FAQ include more helpful information.
Regards,
Yvonne Bunn @ December 15, 2011 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (1)
Getting Connected
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. Now that I’ve decided to homeschool, what is the best way to get my questions answered, connect with other homeschoolers, and find out about homeschool events?
A. It’s important to connect with other homeschoolers, not only to know what’s going on, but also to be encouraged. I suggest you sign up for HEAV’s FREE weekly e-mail Updates and HEAV’s quarterly magazine. We’ll keep you posted about upcoming homeschool events, museum homeschool days, the latest legislative information, and other important homeschool news. You’ll be encouraged by helpful articles and great resources, and will enjoy links to many homeschool friendly websites. It’s easy to sign up–and it’s FREE!
Local support groups offer many opportunities for parents to develop friendships with like-minded families, as well as for students to participate in co-op activities, sports, science fairs, art shows, and clubs. Here’s a list of 200+ support groups in different parts of the state.
To get your specific questions answered and learn what you REALLY need to know to homeschool from kindergarten to high school, join us at one of our Homeschool Success Seminars. These practical, information-filled seminars will give you tools for a successful homeschool year. You can even do an entire How-to-Begin Homeschooling Success Seminar online from the comfort of your own home–any time of the day or night!
We want you to get off to a good, strong start. HEAV is here to support you and help you be successful. Please call our office at 804-278-9200 or e-mail your questions to support@heav.org if we can help you with your curriculum choices, the homeschool law, or other homeschool questions.
Wishing you much success!
Yvonne Bunn @ December 7, 2011 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (0)
Special-Needs Services and Homeschoolers
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. Is my homeschooler eligible for speech therapy through a public school?
A. Although school districts are not obligated to provide special-needs services for homeschooled children, some districts may offer services to homeschool students on a first-come, first-served basis if funds are available. Speech therapy is the most often provided service, but you would need to contact your local school district to see what is available.
Regards,
Yvonne Bunn @ November 23, 2011 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (0)
Withdrawing a Child from Public School
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Q. I’m ready to mail my Notice of Intent. What should I do to withdraw my child from public school?
A. First, you should mail your Notice of Intent to your superintendent from the post office by “return/receipt.” By mailing it this way, you will receive a signed receipt showing the date the superintendent’s office received your Notice of Intent.
Afterward you may go to the school office to withdraw your child. It is not necessary to wait for a response letter from the superintendent before withdrawing your child or beginning to homeschool. You are not asking the superintendent for permission, you are only notifying him that you have complied with the homeschool law.
The school may require you to sign a release form. You may also want to ask for a copy of your child’s records. Under Virginia’s Freedom of Information Act, a parent has the right to have a copy of this information. It may help you know what your child’s strengths and weaknesses are and may give you an idea where to begin. That should be all!
Regards,
P.S. You may also find this information on beginning after the August 15 deadline helpful.
Yvonne Bunn @ November 18, 2011 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (0)
Religious Exemption and Driver Ed Correction
This post is part of a series titled, “Homeschool Q&A.” The series features questions we’ve received from parents on a variety of topics–and the answers!
Note: This Q&A is a follow-on post to the “Religious Exemption and Driver’s License” Q&A published last week.
Q. I’m a little confused and think some details may be missing from last week’s question about religious exemption and driver’s education. If we use a private company to teach driver’s education or the in-car portion, then I don’t see where proof is required.
A. You are absolutely correct! If a parent wants to get approval from DMV to provide driver instruction, they must show proof of a homeschool education or a religious exemption, but proof is not required if they use other methods of driver instruction.
I contacted Vanessa C. Wigand, principal specialist for health education, physical education, driver education, and athletics with the Virginia Department of Education. She confirmed that proof of compliance with the homeschool laws from a superintendent or a religious exemption acknowledgment letter from a school board are necessary only for a parent who plans to teach his or her own teen classroom and behind-the-wheel driver education.
However, a parent who elects to enroll his homeschool student in a private driver education company–either a parent who has complied with the homeschool law or a parent who is religiously exempt–is not required to complete the same forms for the DMV. A religiously exempt homeschooler is not required to show the private driver education company a letter from the school board acknowledging his religious exemption.
Thank you for bringing this information to my attention. I apologize for the confusion. I hope this clarifies driver education opportunities for parents who are homeschooling under religious exemption.
Yvonne Bunn @ November 10, 2011 | Homeschool Q&A | Comments (1)