How much do you spend on homeschooling per year? To be real, you can spend thousands. But you don’t have to if you can get creative and think outside of the four sided geometrical shape. I spent less than $200 in the first year and continue to be able to spend less than you would think while providing a rich and eclectic learning environment for my kids. And guess what, you do not have to start a homeschool program from scratch like I did. Here is how, in three easy steps. HAHAHHA just kidding, it is more than three steps but the following info will be helpful.

First, what do you want to create for your family? We all have goals. As I shared in my previous newsletter (that I hope you enjoyed) you as a parent have very different goals than your children. This is an important distinction when planning to homeschool. Kids want to enjoy what they learn. Let us remember this and move on to what you as a parent want for your kids.

I wanted to have fun, keep my kids interested in the moment and most importantly foster a passion for learning. I did NOT want to spend a small fortune while doing so. Charter schools were the answer for us! While talking to many homeschooling parents I found out about charter schools.

How can charter schools support your learning environment. We chose a charter that would allow flexibility. I would have control over what, when, and how I homeschooled. It offered online classes if we wanted, a physical location (sadly too far from us) and I could choose the curriculum that would inform our learning. The charter provided an educational facilitator that we meet with several times a year and was there when I needed support. The stipend (an allotted amount of money) was generous and there were very little restrictions on what we used it for. The charter asked that I do monthly lesson plans and provide work samples as a way of showing how my kids were learning.

All charters schools have different requirements and I can only speak in general terms about charters in Oregon. Charters for the most part are public schools run by individuals that run the school with their unique educational mission in mind. Homeschool charters are sponsored by a school district (you do not have to live in the district to attend). Many are online but there are several that have physical locations and have hybrid classes where you can attend in person. Some charters are very open to how you homeschool your learner (while part of their program), others require that you use specific curriculum and meet specific academic standards. All charters are available to help you meet your family’s needs so picking one that aligns with your needs is important.

Some charters will provide a stipend of up to $2500 per student per year, some do not. There are differences in how these funds are allocated and how they can be used. Most all funds are to be used for active classes (sports, dance, horse ridding…), educational classes (art, tutoring, stem, music…), Supplies and curriculum (math, science, microscope, markers, kiwi box…)or academic programs such as, Knowledge Seekers.

All charters will have an educational guide to help you and your family through the process. Some are k-5 others are for middle and high school. It is important that you ask yourself some questions. Do I want control over curriculum? Do I want all online or some in person? Is money helpful? Do I need special support for my learner (I would suggest talking to each charter school)? Do I want maximum freedom or to be held accountable each step of the way.

Did you know that KSHC accepts charter funds and we can help you meet the objectives that your specific charter may require. We work with your family and the school to make this a pleasant experience.

This link has a lot of useful information and includes a list of several options. There is also a helpful comparison chart. Please contact charters individually for updated information. https://sites.google.com/view/oregon-homeschool-charters/home?authuser=0

FREEBIES what one is your favorite freebie this week?

Amethyst Performance Horses: Instruction for showing or pleasure riding, beginning to advanced. Western, English, showmanship, halter, trail, in-hand trail, and more! 40+ years of experience in breed, open, 4-H & OHSET showing. Very hands on learning program.  Build confidence and learn all kinds of skills as well as how to care for a horse.  Fun games for kids on horseback.  Indoor lighted arena & outdoor arena. Come join a great group of fun people!  One Hour Private Lesson $60 or 4 Lessons for $200 (ages 5 and up). One Hour Group Lesson is $50 or 4 Lessons for $160 (ages 5 and up). 1/2 Hour one on one Lessons for ages 3&4 $55 or 4 Lessons for $175.Great activity for homeschooled kids!  Mention you homeschool and take $15 off!!! 971-404-5968.  www.amethystperformancehorses.com

Maestro Music: Maestro is an online academy providing exceptional music lessons from a national network of teachers with advanced degrees in music education and performance. We are currently offering our asynchronous course ‘Elementary Music From Home’ to Knowledge Seeker families for 50% off. Course: Code: 

Knowledge Seekers https://www.maestromusiclessonsonline.com/elementary-music-course

Kidokinetics and NECC (North East Community Center): I helped to get this class started and I’m excited to keep my boys moving. *It essentially pans out to be $10 per class, see flier for details. Register now so that you have something set up when the weather gets too cold for playing outside. North East Portland. Starting Mondays January 13th 9am-10am. Ages 7-11. https://www.kidokinetics.com/Event/Search

Free Face Painting Party for one hour: By founder Tess Scholl: What do you wish to be, if only for a moment? I will come to you for one hour and paint faces, arms, hands….. with in Portland city limits. I can bring my board with 30 ish designs or I can custom make the designs to suite your theme. How to win, share this news letter with 2 friends (have them subscribe) and follow us on Face Book. Message me on when you have done so and I will enter you into the drawing.

May the sun shine today and you enjoy the heat in this chilled of seasons.

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