Embarking on a homeschooling journey is a significant decision for any family. It opens up a world of educational opportunities tailored to your child’s unique needs and interests. However, one of the first and most crucial steps in this journey is choosing the right homeschool board. This decision can significantly influence your child’s learning experience, so it’s essential to make an informed choice.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a homeschool board in Alberta, helping you navigate this critical decision with confidence.
Things to consider when choosing a homeschool board:
Which approach is offered?
It’s important to choose a homeschool board that supports the approach that you have chosen. Boards that offer distance learning typically offer shared responsibility as well. However, boards that support a parent-directed home education approach usually only offer that approach.
To learn more about the different homeschool approaches available in Alberta, click here.
Faith-based vs. secular?
Families are not required to register with a homeschool board that follows their own religious views. If that is important to you, research the boards that align with your beliefs.
If not, it is possible for faith-based families to register with a secular board, and vice versa. Each board will have their own guidelines for this, so it’s important to ask if they will support it.
Where the homeschool board is based from?
Families can register with any homeschool board within their own province – you do not have to be local to a board to register to that board.
However, being in the same region as the board allows families to participate in any activities that the board organizes.
Do they accept students mid-year?
The deadline to register with a homeschool board is September 30. Registering after this date is considered a mid-year registration. Not all boards accept mid-year students, so be sure to ask if that option is offered if you will need it.
In conclusion, choosing a homeschool board in Alberta involves careful consideration of various factors, including the educational approach, faith-based or secular orientation, the board’s location, and their policy on mid-year registrations. Remember, the best choice is one that aligns with your family’s values, your child’s learning style, and your educational goals.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to potential boards with your questions and concerns. After all, your child’s education is a journey, and choosing the right homeschool board is the first step on this path.
We hope this guide has been helpful in your decision-making process. Happy homeschooling!