Re: [Unschooling-dotcom] documentation
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/3/2003 5:03:44 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
SandraDodd@... writes:
to keep up with portfolios, "attendance", and "subjects" covered.
I count the "first" 180 days of the school year ('cause they ALL count!) and
keep ticket stubs and book lists from the library and photos of whatever we
do. It's not hard, but it IS required. And it may not be any easier for me
with our move to NC---they have testing there!
~Kelly
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
SandraDodd@... writes:
> I don't see how it makes one iota of difference once people quit counting.Yeah, but you live in an easy state. Those of us that must document DO have
> They could require eight hours a DAY and I would sleep like a happy baby
> just
> the same.
to keep up with portfolios, "attendance", and "subjects" covered.
I count the "first" 180 days of the school year ('cause they ALL count!) and
keep ticket stubs and book lists from the library and photos of whatever we
do. It's not hard, but it IS required. And it may not be any easier for me
with our move to NC---they have testing there!
~Kelly
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Have a Nice Day!
I have also looked for websites with content that we have covered, but that we don't necessarily have documentation for.
For example, in December we got up early to see the brightest stars: Venus and Mars were converged, making a VERY big "star" near the moon.
I got the girls up and we looked at, identified it, talked about planets, talked about the sun, the moon, day and night, and on and on.
How do I document that? I don't keep a daily journal anymore (and yes, I do live in PA) because I refuse to give the district something that the law does NOT require. But I *will* find websites that cover that information and submit the links in my log of book titles or print them for "samples".
Kristen
For example, in December we got up early to see the brightest stars: Venus and Mars were converged, making a VERY big "star" near the moon.
I got the girls up and we looked at, identified it, talked about planets, talked about the sun, the moon, day and night, and on and on.
How do I document that? I don't keep a daily journal anymore (and yes, I do live in PA) because I refuse to give the district something that the law does NOT require. But I *will* find websites that cover that information and submit the links in my log of book titles or print them for "samples".
Kristen
----- Original Message -----
From: kbcdlovejo@...
To: [email protected]
Sent: Saturday, May 03, 2003 11:12 PM
Subject: Re: [Unschooling-dotcom] documentation
In a message dated 5/3/2003 5:03:44 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
SandraDodd@... writes:
> I don't see how it makes one iota of difference once people quit counting.
> They could require eight hours a DAY and I would sleep like a happy baby
> just
> the same.
Yeah, but you live in an easy state. Those of us that must document DO have
to keep up with portfolios, "attendance", and "subjects" covered.
I count the "first" 180 days of the school year ('cause they ALL count!) and
keep ticket stubs and book lists from the library and photos of whatever we
do. It's not hard, but it IS required. And it may not be any easier for me
with our move to NC---they have testing there!
~Kelly
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
~~~~ Don't forget! If you change topics, change the subject line! ~~~~
If you have questions, concerns or problems with this list, please email the moderator, Joyce Fetteroll (fetteroll@...), or the list owner, Helen Hegener (HEM-Editor@...).
To unsubscribe from this group, click on the following link or address an email to:
[email protected]
Visit the Unschooling website: http://www.unschooling.com
Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
jmcseals SEALS
<<And it may not be any easier for me with our move to NC---they have
testing there!>>
I was wondering about that. I know some states require testing and I've
heard the scores don't matter. Three questions...
Why test if the scores don't matter??
Who actually sees these tests??
In states where the scores DO matter, what happens if the child is below
*grade* level??
I always think that must be a hard thing to deal with. We have great
homeschooling laws in Texas, only matched by Alaska, if I'm correct and we
require really nothing. We are *required* to teach the very basics,
reading, math, spelling and good citizenship. I think I'm leaving one out,
but the bottom line is...no one ever checks in and we never have to check
out, so to speak.
Jennifer
_________________________________________________________________
The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE*
http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
testing there!>>
I was wondering about that. I know some states require testing and I've
heard the scores don't matter. Three questions...
Why test if the scores don't matter??
Who actually sees these tests??
In states where the scores DO matter, what happens if the child is below
*grade* level??
I always think that must be a hard thing to deal with. We have great
homeschooling laws in Texas, only matched by Alaska, if I'm correct and we
require really nothing. We are *required* to teach the very basics,
reading, math, spelling and good citizenship. I think I'm leaving one out,
but the bottom line is...no one ever checks in and we never have to check
out, so to speak.
Jennifer
_________________________________________________________________
The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE*
http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/3/03 9:44:49 PM, jmcseals@... writes:
<< We are *required* to teach the very basics,
reading, math, spelling and good citizenship. I think I'm leaving one out,
but the bottom line is...no one ever checks in and we never have to check
out, so to speak. >>
Same with New Mexico. It lists what subjects you're supposed to teach
("provide instruction" is their term), and you're supposed to do "comparable"
blah blah to the school curriculum, and 180 days (they used to make you say
WHICH 180 days). It's so dumb.
Sandra
<< We are *required* to teach the very basics,
reading, math, spelling and good citizenship. I think I'm leaving one out,
but the bottom line is...no one ever checks in and we never have to check
out, so to speak. >>
Same with New Mexico. It lists what subjects you're supposed to teach
("provide instruction" is their term), and you're supposed to do "comparable"
blah blah to the school curriculum, and 180 days (they used to make you say
WHICH 180 days). It's so dumb.
Sandra
[email protected]
Here in Maine, they say the amount of days and subjects we need to cover but
do not say how to cover them.
We have portfolios but all that they are asking is to show progress and maybe
a list of things we did.
We where just talking about this on Friday at a meeting. We figure our
children learn 365 days a year and over 4 hours a day. Two years in one? Im
kidding but really if you think about it 365 days we should be able to stop
notifying the state by say......age 15 right?
Laura D
do not say how to cover them.
We have portfolios but all that they are asking is to show progress and maybe
a list of things we did.
We where just talking about this on Friday at a meeting. We figure our
children learn 365 days a year and over 4 hours a day. Two years in one? Im
kidding but really if you think about it 365 days we should be able to stop
notifying the state by say......age 15 right?
Laura D
> In a message dated 5/3/2003 5:03:44 PM Eastern Daylight Time,[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> SandraDodd@... writes:
> >I don't see how it makes one iota of difference once people quit counting.
>
> >They could require eight hours a DAY and I would sleep like a happy baby
> >just
> >the same.
>
> Yeah, but you live in an easy state. Those of us that must document DO have
>
> to keep up with portfolios, "attendance," and "subjects" covered.
>
> I count the "first" 180 days of the school year ('cause they ALL count!)
> and
> keep ticket stubs and book lists from the library and photos of whatever we
>
> do. It's not hard, but it IS required. And it may not be any easier for me
> with our move to NC---they have testing there!
>
> ~Kelly
Stephanie Elms
Well, here in Va, we have to either have a portfolio evaluation (which means for the most
part you have to comply with the Va Standards of Learning (SOLs (yup that is the name)) or
test. The school focus on the SOLs was definitely a reason for us homeschooling so I
do not want to go the portfolio route. Luckily we do not have to test for kindergarten so
we have another year before jumping through that hoop.
to test but do not have to report the scores. I have no idea why...I guess to look like
they are keeping tabs on what hsers are doing?
Math and Language Arts).
probation for a year. If the scores are not brought up them I believe you have to
put your kid back in school. However, if it looks like your child will not pass
a standardized test, you can always go the portfolio route or choose a different test.
Stephanie E.
part you have to comply with the Va Standards of Learning (SOLs (yup that is the name)) or
test. The school focus on the SOLs was definitely a reason for us homeschooling so I
do not want to go the portfolio route. Luckily we do not have to test for kindergarten so
we have another year before jumping through that hoop.
> Why test if the scores don't matter??Our scores "technically" matter in that we do have to report them. Some states require you
to test but do not have to report the scores. I have no idea why...I guess to look like
they are keeping tabs on what hsers are doing?
> Who actually sees these tests??We have to submit them to the superintendent I believe (actually we only have to test in
Math and Language Arts).
> In states where the scores DO matter, what happens if theHere you only have to be above the 4th stanine (23rd percentile). If not you go on
> child is below
> *grade* level??
probation for a year. If the scores are not brought up them I believe you have to
put your kid back in school. However, if it looks like your child will not pass
a standardized test, you can always go the portfolio route or choose a different test.
Stephanie E.
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/3/2003 11:36:35 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
litlrooh@... writes:
it's nothing new---with my business, I had to write EVERTHING down so I would
get it done (I didn't write Alex's birthday down last week; and if her mother
hadn't have called yesterday morning, Duncan wouldn't have gone. I'd
forgotten). When we've stayed up late to star-gaze, I write "star-gaze,
1-3:30" or whatever. Some things I write before the fact, some after. I also
have disposable cameras all over the house and in the cars, just in case. I
have more than a dozen wating to be developed!
None of this is FOR documentation. It just so happens that it QUALIFIES as
documentation! <g> And in SC we do have to keep attendance and a journal or
portfolio---and cover certain "subjects". All that's done simply and easily.
~Kelly
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
litlrooh@... writes:
> For example, in December we got up early to see the brightest stars: VenusI have a daytimer. I write everything we do in it. I've always done that, so
> and Mars were converged, making a VERY big "star" near the moon.
>
> I got the girls up and we looked at, identified it, talked about planets,
> talked about the sun, the moon, day and night, and on and on.
>
> How do I document that? I don't keep a daily journal anymore (and yes, I
> do live in PA) because I refuse to give the district something that the law
> does NOT require. But I *will* find websites that cover that information
> and submit the links in my log of book titles or print them for "samples".
it's nothing new---with my business, I had to write EVERTHING down so I would
get it done (I didn't write Alex's birthday down last week; and if her mother
hadn't have called yesterday morning, Duncan wouldn't have gone. I'd
forgotten). When we've stayed up late to star-gaze, I write "star-gaze,
1-3:30" or whatever. Some things I write before the fact, some after. I also
have disposable cameras all over the house and in the cars, just in case. I
have more than a dozen wating to be developed!
None of this is FOR documentation. It just so happens that it QUALIFIES as
documentation! <g> And in SC we do have to keep attendance and a journal or
portfolio---and cover certain "subjects". All that's done simply and easily.
~Kelly
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Betjeman and Barton Tea Merchants
Here's in CT we have fairly relaxed laws as well.
By law you don't have to register in order to homeschool - there is a 'guideline' that says you should and then I think you do the portfolio thing at the end of the year. . If they catch you homeschooling without registering I think you have to fill in their form. Which lists subjects you'll cover etc.
You don't 'have' to start homeschooling until age 7
As Brogan is only 3 we have awhile before we have to worry about anything official. I'm not going to file (unless discovered) - afterall it's only a guideline :-)
Karen
By law you don't have to register in order to homeschool - there is a 'guideline' that says you should and then I think you do the portfolio thing at the end of the year. . If they catch you homeschooling without registering I think you have to fill in their form. Which lists subjects you'll cover etc.
You don't 'have' to start homeschooling until age 7
As Brogan is only 3 we have awhile before we have to worry about anything official. I'm not going to file (unless discovered) - afterall it's only a guideline :-)
Karen
----- Original Message -----
From: SandraDodd@...
To: [email protected]
Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2003 12:08 AM
Subject: Re: [Unschooling-dotcom] documentation
In a message dated 5/3/03 9:44:49 PM, jmcseals@... writes:
<< We are *required* to teach the very basics,
reading, math, spelling and good citizenship. I think I'm leaving one out,
but the bottom line is...no one ever checks in and we never have to check
out, so to speak. >>
Same with New Mexico. It lists what subjects you're supposed to teach
("provide instruction" is their term), and you're supposed to do "comparable"
blah blah to the school curriculum, and 180 days (they used to make you say
WHICH 180 days). It's so dumb.
Sandra
Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
~~~~ Don't forget! If you change topics, change the subject line! ~~~~
If you have questions, concerns or problems with this list, please email the moderator, Joyce Fetteroll (fetteroll@...), or the list owner, Helen Hegener (HEM-Editor@...).
To unsubscribe from this group, click on the following link or address an email to:
[email protected]
Visit the Unschooling website: http://www.unschooling.com
Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/3/03 11:13:16 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
kbcdlovejo@... writes:
Computer test with pictures etc and I let my boys decide what test they want
to take. The program makes it like a computer game in a way. Dallen picked
the 2nd grade test last year and the 1st grade test this year, he found both
to be very easy. By age he should probably be taking 3rd or 4th grade,
although I am not really sure. Doesn't matter to me and the state doesn't
say it has to be a grade appropriate test. They just say test once a year.
No punishments, no level they have to meet, etc.
Pam G
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
kbcdlovejo@... writes:
> And it may not be any easier for meNow that doesn't make it more difficult. I use the "Children's Skills Test".
> with our move to NC---they have testing there!
>
>
Computer test with pictures etc and I let my boys decide what test they want
to take. The program makes it like a computer game in a way. Dallen picked
the 2nd grade test last year and the 1st grade test this year, he found both
to be very easy. By age he should probably be taking 3rd or 4th grade,
although I am not really sure. Doesn't matter to me and the state doesn't
say it has to be a grade appropriate test. They just say test once a year.
No punishments, no level they have to meet, etc.
Pam G
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/3/03 11:44:51 PM Eastern Daylight Time, jmcseals@...
writes:
2. The NCDNPE if you decide to send them in, although that is optional at
this point.
3. In NC there is no punishment and no level they have to meet.
Pam G.
Actually it is a very easy state. I love it here. I think sometimes people
see the word testing and get scared.
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
writes:
> Why test if the scores don't matter??1. Because it is required by law
>
> Who actually sees these tests??
>
> In states where the scores DO matter, what happens if the child is below
> *grade* level??
>
>
2. The NCDNPE if you decide to send them in, although that is optional at
this point.
3. In NC there is no punishment and no level they have to meet.
Pam G.
Actually it is a very easy state. I love it here. I think sometimes people
see the word testing and get scared.
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/3/03 11:44:51 PM Eastern Daylight Time, jmcseals@...
writes:
very few requirements. Keep an attendance record (although it doesn't say
how many days hours etc we have to "be in school." Keep a shot record or
exemption. Test yearly and keep that on hand for one year. File a Notice of
Intent with the state dept. of nonpublic education.
Pam G.
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
writes:
> We are *required* to teach the very basics,We aren't required to teach anything, or for any length of time. We have
> reading, math, spelling and good citizenship.
very few requirements. Keep an attendance record (although it doesn't say
how many days hours etc we have to "be in school." Keep a shot record or
exemption. Test yearly and keep that on hand for one year. File a Notice of
Intent with the state dept. of nonpublic education.
Pam G.
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
jmcseals SEALS
>Why test if the scores don't matter??LOL! Another word jumble. Actually, I meant, why would the *state* test if
>1. Because it is required by law<
they don't keep up with the scores.
_________________________________________________________________
Protect your PC - get McAfee.com VirusScan Online
http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/4/2003 10:35:51 AM Eastern Standard Time,
jmcseals@... writes:
only says testing not scores or show grade level results.
Laura D
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
jmcseals@... writes:
> >Why test if the scores don't matter??I know people here in Maine that test but black out the scores. The state
>
> >1. Because it is required by law<
>
> LOL! Another word jumble. Actually, I meant, why would the *state* test
> if
> they don't keep up with the scores.
only says testing not scores or show grade level results.
Laura D
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/4/03 10:36:05 AM Eastern Daylight Time, jmcseals@...
writes:
And I don't ask questions or they might think of a reason, a punishment a
level to meet etc. LOL
Pam G.
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
writes:
> LOL! Another word jumble. Actually, I meant, why would the *state* test ifGood question but I think that our regulations are so lenient that I do it.
>
> they don't keep up with the scores.
>
And I don't ask questions or they might think of a reason, a punishment a
level to meet etc. LOL
Pam G.
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
jmcseals SEALS
<<I know people here in Maine that test but black out the scores. The state
only says testing not scores or show grade level results.
Laura D>>
Cool! I do think a lot of homeschoolers take the laws too generally. If it
were me, I'd probably never even thought of that! Not that I think the
state should even have anything to do with it, I don't, but it seems like if
they are going to require testing, having the parents shell out money for a
piece of paper that basically proves the child is in a test-taking situation
once a year is just silly! Makes you wonder if it's just a bunch of people
sitting around with nothing else to do but meddle, and *then* they can't
even agree on an outcome. Person A says, we need to test, person B says no
way, so they agree to disagree and decide you *must* test but they won't
care about the scores in the end anyway. Sheesh! Great proof as to why the
government should keep it's nose out from the get-go, in my opinion.
Jennifer
_________________________________________________________________
Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE*
http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
only says testing not scores or show grade level results.
Laura D>>
Cool! I do think a lot of homeschoolers take the laws too generally. If it
were me, I'd probably never even thought of that! Not that I think the
state should even have anything to do with it, I don't, but it seems like if
they are going to require testing, having the parents shell out money for a
piece of paper that basically proves the child is in a test-taking situation
once a year is just silly! Makes you wonder if it's just a bunch of people
sitting around with nothing else to do but meddle, and *then* they can't
even agree on an outcome. Person A says, we need to test, person B says no
way, so they agree to disagree and decide you *must* test but they won't
care about the scores in the end anyway. Sheesh! Great proof as to why the
government should keep it's nose out from the get-go, in my opinion.
Jennifer
_________________________________________________________________
Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE*
http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/4/03 8:36:03 AM, jmcseals@... writes:
<< >Why test if the scores don't matter??
they don't keep up with the scores. >>
Some places will require it so that just in case you get in trouble with the
county (township/region/province/whatever) you can prove something to someone
if the court requires it.
The same way people ask homeschoolers about times tables and socialization,
professional educators and interested parents who are opposed to unschooling
will ask administration and the state, "Don't they have to be TESTED?" The
right answer to shut them up is "Yeah, they have to be tested too."
In New Mexico for years there were only three grades at which homeschoolers
were required by law to test. The scores went in as a batch so the state
could look at the scores of homeschoolers--how they were doing as a batch.
That's the way the school's scores go in too.
The uses made of those scores are two kinds, and none applied to
homeschoolers. The schools use them as first pass (or last) in placing kids
in classes and determining special ed. And the batch scores are used to
apply for funding (state or federal special programs or extra funding).
Since homeschoolers have no special ed classes or advanced or remedial, and
since the state and federals wouldn't give them any money if they could, they
dropped the test score.
Happy speculation among some homeschoolers is that the scores were so high it
was embarrassing the state. They could be true. MOST (way most)
homeschoolers weren't testing their kids anyway. They were either just
ditching, not registering, or registering twice for a grade that didn't test
and then registering for the grade past the test.
So for some combo of those reasons, New Mexico no longer requires testing.
Sandra
<< >Why test if the scores don't matter??
>1. Because it is required by law<LOL! Another word jumble. Actually, I meant, why would the *state* test if
they don't keep up with the scores. >>
Some places will require it so that just in case you get in trouble with the
county (township/region/province/whatever) you can prove something to someone
if the court requires it.
The same way people ask homeschoolers about times tables and socialization,
professional educators and interested parents who are opposed to unschooling
will ask administration and the state, "Don't they have to be TESTED?" The
right answer to shut them up is "Yeah, they have to be tested too."
In New Mexico for years there were only three grades at which homeschoolers
were required by law to test. The scores went in as a batch so the state
could look at the scores of homeschoolers--how they were doing as a batch.
That's the way the school's scores go in too.
The uses made of those scores are two kinds, and none applied to
homeschoolers. The schools use them as first pass (or last) in placing kids
in classes and determining special ed. And the batch scores are used to
apply for funding (state or federal special programs or extra funding).
Since homeschoolers have no special ed classes or advanced or remedial, and
since the state and federals wouldn't give them any money if they could, they
dropped the test score.
Happy speculation among some homeschoolers is that the scores were so high it
was embarrassing the state. They could be true. MOST (way most)
homeschoolers weren't testing their kids anyway. They were either just
ditching, not registering, or registering twice for a grade that didn't test
and then registering for the grade past the test.
So for some combo of those reasons, New Mexico no longer requires testing.
Sandra
Kelly Lenhart
PA requires tests on certain years. 3, 5 and 8 I think. I've heard tell of
folks who have 2nd graders for 2 years, then a 4th grader for two years,
then a 6th, then a 7th for two years, well you get the point. As we set the
"grade".....
Kelly
(planning on just that)
folks who have 2nd graders for 2 years, then a 4th grader for two years,
then a 6th, then a 7th for two years, well you get the point. As we set the
"grade".....
Kelly
(planning on just that)
kayb85
Another thing to consider about PA and testing is that while we are
required to give tests in grades 3,5 and 8, nowhere does the law say
that we're required to have our children in grades 3,5, or 8. We're
required to report their ages on the affidavits, not their grades.
Never put a grade level on an affidavit. Some schools might insist
on knowing "the grade level" anyway and some won't. Some people,
when challenged by their school districts, will say they use
an "ungraded k-6 curriculum". That *probably* wouldn't hold up in
court if the superintendent challenged it with a due process hearing,
but some people do it. Depends on how friendly your school district
is!
Sheila
--- In [email protected], "Kelly Lenhart"
<mina@m...> wrote:
required to give tests in grades 3,5 and 8, nowhere does the law say
that we're required to have our children in grades 3,5, or 8. We're
required to report their ages on the affidavits, not their grades.
Never put a grade level on an affidavit. Some schools might insist
on knowing "the grade level" anyway and some won't. Some people,
when challenged by their school districts, will say they use
an "ungraded k-6 curriculum". That *probably* wouldn't hold up in
court if the superintendent challenged it with a due process hearing,
but some people do it. Depends on how friendly your school district
is!
Sheila
--- In [email protected], "Kelly Lenhart"
<mina@m...> wrote:
> PA requires tests on certain years. 3, 5 and 8 I think. I'veheard tell of
> folks who have 2nd graders for 2 years, then a 4th grader for twoyears,
> then a 6th, then a 7th for two years, well you get the point. Aswe set the
> "grade".....
>
> Kelly
> (planning on just that)
[email protected]
Here in CT it is very relaxed with the laws but they can give you a hard time
in regard to how they see the law concerning homeschooling and how we see it.
They push and actually tell you that it is the law to file a Notice Of Intent
which then means you are subject to a portfolio review at the end of each
school year. But our law clearly states that this is suggested procedure not
the law. This issue has been challenged many times in the state of CT. We had
to have a lawyer here in CT that stands up for children's rights to
homeschool in the state of CT help us with our case just so we would not
continue to be harassed and charged with truancy. There have been many
reports of the officials even sending Child Protective Services, school
officials, and the police right to honest peoples homes just because they
homeschool and have chosen NOT to file the Notice Of Intent. So while our law
may be more relaxed we still face people in our state that are pushing and
pushing to change those relaxed laws that we enjoy so much at this very
moment. And there are still families here that are targeted just because they
wont file a notice that is suggested not law.
Kim
<< Here's in CT we have fairly relaxed laws as well.
By law you don't have to register in order to homeschool - there is a
'guideline' that says you should and then I think you do the portfolio thing
at the end of the year. . If they catch you homeschooling without
registering I think you have to fill in their form. Which lists subjects
you'll cover etc.
You don't 'have' to start homeschooling until age 7
As Brogan is only 3 we have awhile before we have to worry about anything
official. I'm not going to file (unless discovered) - afterall it's only a
guideline :-)
Karen >>
in regard to how they see the law concerning homeschooling and how we see it.
They push and actually tell you that it is the law to file a Notice Of Intent
which then means you are subject to a portfolio review at the end of each
school year. But our law clearly states that this is suggested procedure not
the law. This issue has been challenged many times in the state of CT. We had
to have a lawyer here in CT that stands up for children's rights to
homeschool in the state of CT help us with our case just so we would not
continue to be harassed and charged with truancy. There have been many
reports of the officials even sending Child Protective Services, school
officials, and the police right to honest peoples homes just because they
homeschool and have chosen NOT to file the Notice Of Intent. So while our law
may be more relaxed we still face people in our state that are pushing and
pushing to change those relaxed laws that we enjoy so much at this very
moment. And there are still families here that are targeted just because they
wont file a notice that is suggested not law.
Kim
<< Here's in CT we have fairly relaxed laws as well.
By law you don't have to register in order to homeschool - there is a
'guideline' that says you should and then I think you do the portfolio thing
at the end of the year. . If they catch you homeschooling without
registering I think you have to fill in their form. Which lists subjects
you'll cover etc.
You don't 'have' to start homeschooling until age 7
As Brogan is only 3 we have awhile before we have to worry about anything
official. I'm not going to file (unless discovered) - afterall it's only a
guideline :-)
Karen >>
Angela
Here in Maine we also have the option of becoming a non-approved private
school. By going this route, you don't have to have a portfolio review
by a teacher or test.
This is the route I have taken this year and it has been great. We had
to file a letter of intent with the state. (Actually, it's optional to
file it, believe it or not.) We had to have at least two unrelated
kids in our *school*. (two home school families who each home school
however they see fit in their own homes.) We had to send another letter
to the superintendent that told him which kids from his school district
were in our private school. We have to review our own kids quarterly
and say we covered the traditional subjects, which we do by living life.
I have my quarterly assessment on the computer and I just change the
date and print it out and file it. It just says that I reviewed the
kids work for the first (second, third, fourth) quarter of her second
grade year in the following subjects...math, language arts, etc. and
that I have found that satisfactory progress has been made. I keep no
other records other than that quarterly assessment I write to myself.
If creating a non-approved private school is an option in other states,
I would look into it. It sounded intimidating until I actually did it.
It's easier than filing as a homeschooler. The only drawbacks I can
think of are that we aren't counted as homeschoolers and we cannot
participate in any public school activities, which is an issue for some
people but not for us. I want to stay as far away from the public
school system as possible.
Angela in Maine
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
school. By going this route, you don't have to have a portfolio review
by a teacher or test.
This is the route I have taken this year and it has been great. We had
to file a letter of intent with the state. (Actually, it's optional to
file it, believe it or not.) We had to have at least two unrelated
kids in our *school*. (two home school families who each home school
however they see fit in their own homes.) We had to send another letter
to the superintendent that told him which kids from his school district
were in our private school. We have to review our own kids quarterly
and say we covered the traditional subjects, which we do by living life.
I have my quarterly assessment on the computer and I just change the
date and print it out and file it. It just says that I reviewed the
kids work for the first (second, third, fourth) quarter of her second
grade year in the following subjects...math, language arts, etc. and
that I have found that satisfactory progress has been made. I keep no
other records other than that quarterly assessment I write to myself.
If creating a non-approved private school is an option in other states,
I would look into it. It sounded intimidating until I actually did it.
It's easier than filing as a homeschooler. The only drawbacks I can
think of are that we aren't counted as homeschoolers and we cannot
participate in any public school activities, which is an issue for some
people but not for us. I want to stay as far away from the public
school system as possible.
Angela in Maine
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/4/2003 3:54:34 PM Eastern Standard Time, mina@...
writes:
promote? That's neat!
Laura D
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
writes:
> PA requires tests on certain years. 3, 5 and 8 I think. I've heard tell ofCan you do that? I mean will the state allow you to hold back one and double
> folks who have 2nd graders for 2 years, then a 4th grader for two years,
> then a 6th, then a 7th for two years, well you get the point. As we set
> the
> "grade".....
>
> Kelly
> (planning on just that)
promote? That's neat!
Laura D
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/4/2003 6:27:26 PM Eastern Standard Time,
HOMESCHOOL4GOOD@... writes:
few families that are not registered.
Laura D
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
HOMESCHOOL4GOOD@... writes:
> Here in CT it is very relaxed with the laws but they can give you a hardThat sounds like Maine also. But I do not think they push too much. I know a
> time
> in regard to how they see the law concerning homeschooling and how we see
> it.
> They push and actually tell you that it is the law to file a Notice Of
> Intent
> which then means you are subject to a portfolio review at the end of each
> school year. But our law clearly states that this is suggested procedure
> not
> the law.
few families that are not registered.
Laura D
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Heidi
--- In [email protected], "jmcseals SEALS"
<jmcseals@m...> wrote:
best law, which is: school 180 days of the year, and we
define "school". I think officially, one "school day" has to be 5
hours of instruction. LOL If we go to an amusement park for 10 hours,
we have just taken down two school days, not to mention anything the
kids did in helping pack, figure out budget, plan for food and
gasoline, etc. You could get three "official school days" out of one
day-trip to Lagoon. The drive down there, if we listen to a book on
tape, sing songs, do the alphabet game, discuss something one of us
is reading, or whatever...
HeidiC
and we
<jmcseals@m...> wrote:
> <<And it may not be any easier for me with our move to NC---theyhave
> testing there!>>great
>
> I was wondering about that. I know some states require testing and
> I always think that must be a hard thing to deal with. We have
> homeschooling laws in Texas, only matched by Alaska, if I'm correctFor a state friendly to homeschooling, none beats Idaho. We have THE
best law, which is: school 180 days of the year, and we
define "school". I think officially, one "school day" has to be 5
hours of instruction. LOL If we go to an amusement park for 10 hours,
we have just taken down two school days, not to mention anything the
kids did in helping pack, figure out budget, plan for food and
gasoline, etc. You could get three "official school days" out of one
day-trip to Lagoon. The drive down there, if we listen to a book on
tape, sing songs, do the alphabet game, discuss something one of us
is reading, or whatever...
HeidiC
and we
> require really nothing. We are *required* to teach the verybasics,
> reading, math, spelling and good citizenship. I think I'm leavingone out,
> but the bottom line is...no one ever checks in and we never have tocheck
> out, so to speak.
>
> Jennifer
>
>
>
> _________________________________________________________________
> The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE*
> http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Mary
From: "Heidi" <bunsofaluminum60@...>
<<For a state friendly to homeschooling, none beats Idaho. >>
Try Florida. Register with a homeschooling non public school and you have
absolutely nothing to do.
Mary B
<<For a state friendly to homeschooling, none beats Idaho. >>
Try Florida. Register with a homeschooling non public school and you have
absolutely nothing to do.
Mary B
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/4/03 7:49:23 PM, HMSL2@... writes:
<< Can you do that? I mean will the state allow you to hold back one and
double
promote? That's neat! >>
I've never heard of anyone being questioned, but maybe in states where there
is a "reviewer" it would show.
Here, you send the paper, some lowly-paid clerk files it alphabetically, and
it's over.
Sandra
<< Can you do that? I mean will the state allow you to hold back one and
double
promote? That's neat! >>
I've never heard of anyone being questioned, but maybe in states where there
is a "reviewer" it would show.
Here, you send the paper, some lowly-paid clerk files it alphabetically, and
it's over.
Sandra
Have a Nice Day!
In a message dated 5/4/2003 3:54:34 PM Eastern Standard Time, mina@...
writes:
promote? That's neat!<<<<<
Depends on your district. Each of the 501 districts do what they want as far as law enforcement/interpretation goes. They aren't supposed to, but they do it anyway and there is nothing to stop them.
Kristen
Laura D
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
~~~~ Don't forget! If you change topics, change the subject line! ~~~~
If you have questions, concerns or problems with this list, please email the moderator, Joyce Fetteroll (fetteroll@...), or the list owner, Helen Hegener (HEM-Editor@...).
To unsubscribe from this group, click on the following link or address an email to:
[email protected]
Visit the Unschooling website: http://www.unschooling.com
Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
writes:
> PA requires tests on certain years. 3, 5 and 8 I think. I've heard tell ofCan you do that? I mean will the state allow you to hold back one and double
> folks who have 2nd graders for 2 years, then a 4th grader for two years,
> then a 6th, then a 7th for two years, well you get the point. As we set
> the
> "grade".....
>
> Kelly
> (planning on just that)
promote? That's neat!<<<<<
Depends on your district. Each of the 501 districts do what they want as far as law enforcement/interpretation goes. They aren't supposed to, but they do it anyway and there is nothing to stop them.
Kristen
Laura D
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
~~~~ Don't forget! If you change topics, change the subject line! ~~~~
If you have questions, concerns or problems with this list, please email the moderator, Joyce Fetteroll (fetteroll@...), or the list owner, Helen Hegener (HEM-Editor@...).
To unsubscribe from this group, click on the following link or address an email to:
[email protected]
Visit the Unschooling website: http://www.unschooling.com
Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
cheryl
Mary B,
I'm in north central Florida. Can you give me a name of a homeschooling non
public school? Is this a 617 or 623 (or whatever they call it!)? I'd like
to get away from being registered with the county and the mandatory
evaluations.
Thanks a lot.
Cheryl N (since I see another Cheryl has posted recently. 'Twas not I.)
Helen Hegener (HEM-Editor@...).
I'm in north central Florida. Can you give me a name of a homeschooling non
public school? Is this a 617 or 623 (or whatever they call it!)? I'd like
to get away from being registered with the county and the mandatory
evaluations.
Thanks a lot.
Cheryl N (since I see another Cheryl has posted recently. 'Twas not I.)
> Try Florida. Register with a homeschooling non public school and you havethe moderator, Joyce Fetteroll (fetteroll@...), or the list owner,
> absolutely nothing to do.
>
> Mary B
>
>
>
>
> ~~~~ Don't forget! If you change topics, change the subject line! ~~~~
>
> If you have questions, concerns or problems with this list, please email
Helen Hegener (HEM-Editor@...).
>email to:
> To unsubscribe from this group, click on the following link or address an
> [email protected]
>
> Visit the Unschooling website: http://www.unschooling.com
>
> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
>
>
nellebelle
We are not required to state a grade level here in Washington state.
We file a form with our local school district (each district does their own
form). The form says "It is my intent to have my children receive
home-based instruction as specified in RCW 28A.27.010(4)".
The law says that we must put the child's name and birthdate. The form has
a blank for the child's grade and school last attended and asks parents to
check which option they "qualify" under. None of this is required, so I
leave them blank. Many parents fill out the entire form though, not
realizing that the info isn't required.
I thought about putting A+ for grade :-)
Mary Ellen
We file a form with our local school district (each district does their own
form). The form says "It is my intent to have my children receive
home-based instruction as specified in RCW 28A.27.010(4)".
The law says that we must put the child's name and birthdate. The form has
a blank for the child's grade and school last attended and asks parents to
check which option they "qualify" under. None of this is required, so I
leave them blank. Many parents fill out the entire form though, not
realizing that the info isn't required.
I thought about putting A+ for grade :-)
Mary Ellen
Heidi
--- In [email protected], "Mary" <mummy124@b...>
wrote:
say "180 days of school" but there's no checking up, no tests,
nothing to hand in. Because we had been involved in the P.S. system,
we informed the district of our intent to homeschool, and that was
all we did. If we'd never been involved in the system, we wouldn't
have had to inform them of anything.
:D
HeidiC
wrote:
> From: "Heidi" <bunsofaluminum60@h...>you have
>
> <<For a state friendly to homeschooling, none beats Idaho. >>
>
>
> Try Florida. Register with a homeschooling non public school and
> absolutely nothing to do.Oh yeah? ;) well, we don't even have to register with anything. They
>
> Mary B
say "180 days of school" but there's no checking up, no tests,
nothing to hand in. Because we had been involved in the P.S. system,
we informed the district of our intent to homeschool, and that was
all we did. If we'd never been involved in the system, we wouldn't
have had to inform them of anything.
:D
HeidiC
[email protected]
In a message dated 5/5/2003 10:46:12 AM Eastern Standard Time,
bunsofaluminum60@... writes:
just sort of drop off the face of the earth to the public school system...no
worries!! West Virginia is awful, IMO. We've never had to jump through so
many hoops, and never had the state change legislation/laws so often.
Hopefully the last one will stick for a while.
Nancy
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
bunsofaluminum60@... writes:
> > Try Florida. Register with a homeschooling non public school andI liked Florida too...you register with a "private" umbrella school, then you
> you have
> > absolutely nothing to do.
> >
just sort of drop off the face of the earth to the public school system...no
worries!! West Virginia is awful, IMO. We've never had to jump through so
many hoops, and never had the state change legislation/laws so often.
Hopefully the last one will stick for a while.
Nancy
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]