Welcome to the Long Family Blog!
During a conversation with my sister, she recommended I start a blog that included information about homeschooling. Since homeschooling is a large part of my life a good portion of my blog will focus on such issues. However, it will also include the many other facets or our life as a family.
As the start of the standard school year approaches homeschoolers everywhere are making their school preparations. While not all homeschoolers follow their local school calendars, many do. Many families have found that keeping the public school calendar suits the needs of their families. This time of year seems like a great opportunity to review the support available to homeschoolers in the state of Florida.
The most important thing a homeschooling family can do is make sure they are in compliance with the law. This helps cut down on the amount of government interference in the family. Florida's homeschooling laws can be found at here at the K-20 Education Code. Many families who have a special concern about government interference have found membership in the Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) to be worthwhile.
The Florida Parent Educators Association (FPEA) is a statewide support group available to all homeschoolers. FPEA offers many a wide array of information and activities. Such information includes links to local support groups, explanation of homeschooling laws, and a calendar of events. They also host an annual convention in Orlando which includes a large curriculum fair, classes and seminars on a multitude of homeschooling and parenting topics, a graduation ceremony, and even a prom. Anyone may attend the FPEA homeschool convention, but FPEA members receive a discount.
Each local public school district has at least one person in the Guidance Services department that is familiar with the laws on homeschooling and available to help parents get the information needed.
As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints I have often found myself feeling alone in my desire to follow the gospel of Jesus Christ and homeschool. I have found, much to my dismay, that many of my brothers and sisters in the gospel do not understand or support my family's decision to homeschool. For a number of years I simply felt alienated from those with whom I desired a closeness. It has been with great relief that I have discovered LDS homeschool support groups. Locally, I have Brandon LDS Homeschool which I love! A great place to find LDS centered homeschool groups is National LDS Homeschool Association. They have a list of support groups in the different states as well as homeschooling and curriculum tips.
Thanks to all those who have taken the time to read this blog. I hope I am able to provide needed and helpful information for those currently homeschooling or simply interested in finding out more about the phenomenon of educating your own children.
