HEM SUPPORT GROUP NEWS - September 2006

~SEPTEMBERS'S HIGHLIGHT
~ISSUES TO WATCH
~SPECIAL OFFER FROM HOME EDUCATION MAGAZINE
~COMMUNITY SERVICE
~CONFERENCES
~WEB UPDATES
~ONLINE HOME EDUCATION MAGAZINE ARCHIVES
~HEM RESOURCES AND MORE

SEPTEMBER's HIGHLIGHT

This month's HEM Support Group highlight is Connecticut Homeschool Network.  C.H.N., Inc. is a non-profit corporation that was founded as a network in 1995. I visited their website at: http://www.cthomeschoolnetwork.org/resources.htm and got lost exploring their many resources. I spoke with Susan Cox, Interim President of CHN about the organization.

I began by asking Susan to tell us more about how the Connecticut Homeschool Network came to be?

Susan: [CT Homeschool Network recently underwent some changes to the Board of Director's of this organization.  We are undergoing many exciting changes as a result.  One change is updating our website.  So please bear with us as we make these changes over the next few months.]

CHN began as a break off group that had been established prior to 1995.  CHN was created then to meet the needs and inquiries of homeschoolers in the state, old and new through Internet networking through a website.  The founders of CHN decided to incorporate it in 1995 to better serve the homeschool community as a non profit organization that enabled them the ability to offer insurance coverage, if needed, to homeschool support groups throughout the state.

Mary: Your website states that your group serves over 10,000 members? What is the group's main focus?

Susan:    Ten thousand is number of individuals we estimate serving. Our mailing list is currently comprised of 2,000recipients, which is closer to the number of families we serve.

Our organization's main focus can be found in our Mission Statement: "to inform, empower, and foster community among home educators in the state of Connecticut".  Some of the ways we do this are by providing a list of local area homeschool support groups throughout the state as well as a message board for homeschoolers to ask others whatever they are in need of knowing.  We also offer the opportunity for homeschoolers to connect with one another by posting a "calendar of events" that homeschoolers can access which lists events that are going on, in and around our state like; field trips, events at museums, playgrounds and other events that may appeal to homeschooling families.  Finally, we provide information on our website about the laws and legal guidelines for Connecticut as well as links to local and national legal groups that homeschoolers can educate themselves further about the laws.

Mary: How is the group structured?

Susan:   CHN currently has a Board of Directors that oversee the business end of the organization.  We encourage our members to volunteer their time.  We also form committees that can help manage all the tasks needed by a large organization like this one.  We are nothing without our volunteers.  It's especially difficult when you realize that  "running" this organization we are parents, first and then have chosen to educate our children on top of all the other "business of life" chores that are required as a parent, all the while, trying to keep this orgnization alive.  That makes things very challenging.

Mary: Your group offers wonderful resources for the state of Connecticut. Do you have any advise to share with others who would like to start a similar group?

Susan:   That it's a piece of cake today!  Thanks to the Internet!  It's a very exciting time. What a blessing to be homeschooling in this day!  Where would we be without the Internet? Well I'm sure many veteran homeschoolers can easily answer that.   

So, I guess my advice would be to start with the Internet.    "Google" or do a search with your state name and "homeschool".  You'll undoubtedly find a wealth of information.    

If YOU want to begin your own group I suggest, start by posting a website group like the ones "Yahoo Groups" offers.    See what interest you can muster in and around your city/town.    I'd also like to share that it may start out pretty small but the groups tend to balloon in a few months or years.  That's been personal experience in my five short years of homeschooling.     What I've witnessed is; a group will form, people will discover they have like minded ideas and then a new group will branch off.  

Check out other state's homeschool websites, too.  See what you like about theirs and if you need to create a new website, pick and choose what you like from other websites and choose what you think will best serve your community.         

Mary: I see that you have a convention scheduled for August of 2006? Is this your first convention?

Susan:    CHN has hosted conventions every year except this one.   Our organization recently went through some major changes with its board of director's midway through the term.  As a result, our newly formed board of directors decided to focus on strengthening our organization's foundation instead of focusing on a convention, which requires a lot of volunteers and many hours of time.  With heavy hearts we decided to cancel our convention this year, as we really needed to focus on getting a stronger foundation.       We are also reconsidering the need for a yearly convention.  As people are linking up through the Internet more and more we find that we see more veteran's at the conventions and less and less newbies. The average number of our convention attendees is about 500.   Our organization generates most of its operating costs through the convention but it is a lot of work and time.   We hope to have a convention in 2007 or 2008 but honestly, we are weighing that decision.

Mary: Can you tell us more about the convention? Do you expect all 10,000 members attend?

Susan:   In the past our conventions had approximately 500 attendees.

Mary: What is the homeschool climate like in CT? Is Connecticut a homeschool friendly state?

Susan:  There is freedom to homeschool in CT.  I feel very fortunate to be living in a state with such freedom.

That being said, one of the great features of our website is the ability to inform our members of changes to the laws going on in our state's capital.   We have separate legal groups and individuals that are also volunteers that keep up with all the pending legislation in the state.  When a law is threatening our homeschooling freedoms we pass that info along via e-mails, website and to the groups.     You can never take for granted that these laws won't be tampered with in one way or another, either completely or a minor change in the bill's language that can affect many people, not just homechoolers.   No room for apathy here.    When homeschool families get the word out they often will show up at the capital and argue for or against a particular bill either by lobbying or speaking up at the capital.    We have had success defeating bills that would have caused a loss of these freedoms.   Many of our legal consultants are volunteers that are current or former homeschooling parents so, they have a particular interest in helping Connecticut keeps it's freedom intact for homeschooling.    

At this time, in CT, it is "suggested" that a Notice of Intent form is filed and that in doing so you may be called upon to present the school officials with your child's portfolio.   It is voluntary at this time.  

For the most part families are homeschooling free and clear in Connecticut, answering only to themselves.  Yet, there are instances where families have had struggles with the State Department of Education.  This is when our legal consultants will step up and help out.  

Mary: You offer amazing support to your membership, including referrals for free legal consultation if needed, how do you manage to maintain the site and offer all that you do for free?

Susan:  We can and do offer referrals for legal consultation, but cannot guarantee that those consultations will be free; that is always up to the individual attorney.  As far as maintaining the website and offering all we do for free, we do it through volunteerism!  It's the only way.  Most of the people involved are "called" to help out their fellow homeschoolers through volunteering for the organization.  And they do!    We do accept donations to help the organization stay up and running but monetarily it is minimal.  There are approximately 2 out of about 45 support groups that send in cash to help keep us up and running.  Those group leaders will ask their members to pay for their insurance coverage and then tack on a couple extra dollars towards a donation.   (CHN does ask for $50 an event from each group to cover their insurance.)  People send donations of stamps or office supplies and individuals will send $5 here and $10 there.  Every little bit REALLY helps!  Other ways we raise funds are through fund raisers.  We utilize the programs through Boxtops for Education, Newman's Chocolate Bars, and Refunds through the Newman Foundation for ink cartridge and cell phone returns and of course through Amazon.com's purchasing program.  It does "cost" to have an organization like this but it's mostly a labor of love.      

Mary: What is the most important advice you share with new homeschoolers? With veterans?

Susan:   For newbies, I say- YOU can do this.  You were doing this since day one with your little one/s.    If you need support, IT IS out there.  Look around.  Websites, homeschool searches on the Internet, libraries, it is there!  Whatever your style or interest there is a group for you.  If not, create one yourself.  It's easy today.   The Internet makes it so.    It is also important to know your rights.  Each state has individual laws and requirements for homschooling, and you should familiarize yourself with these before making your decision.  Again, the Internet is a great way to find this information.

For veteran's -  I say, "Thanks for paving the way!  You cleared this path for us and I, on behalf of many, am eternally grateful to YOU.   You did this in the days when it was not a cakewalk and kept plodding along until it became a common word! Thank you.   We need to hear from you, too.  Put your name out there on the Internet, or tack it up in a library for the newer families to contact you, share your homeschooling adventures at a homeschool support night.  Some of us still need your expert advice and input.   Tell us about your success and failures.  Shares your accomplishments with us.  Let us know how really worth it, it all is.      

Mary: Thank you for taking the time to share your time and information with us!

Susan: You are very welcome.  Although, I am a new subscriber to this magazine, I've been reading it as a hand me down for a while and I'm always inspired.  

ISSUES TO WATCH

In their September/October, HEM's Taking Charge Through Homeschooling Column, Larry and Susan Kasemen have written an important piece,"Being a  Part of the Homeschooling Movement".  

They begin the article by stating:

"If you're a homeschooler, you're automatically a member of the homeschooling movement. There are no requirements or membership fees, but you can't choose not to be a member either. Like it or not, if you're a homeschooler, you're part of the movement, and what you do affects other homeschoolers and your own future as a homeschooler.

Being part of the homeschooling movement has many advantages and some serious responsibilities. At this time of year, many families are beginning homeschooling and joining the movement, while experienced homeschoolers are planning a new school year and continuing their participation. "Back to school" is such a key event in our society that at this time of year, homeschoolers are often more aware than usual that they are members of the homeschooling movement and not part of the "conventional school crowd." This column explores some advantages and responsibilities. "

Please visit http://www.homeedmag.com/HEM/235/takingcharge.html  to read this important article.  

SPECIAL OFFER FROM HOME EDUCATION MAGAZINE

One year introductory subscription to Home Education Magazine: only $20.00! (reg $32.00) MC/Visa/Disc cards accepted. To order: email Orders@homeedmag.com or call toll-free 1-800-236-3278. Secure online form: http://www.homeedmag.com/ORD/_hemonline.html. Home Education Magazine, PO Box 1083, Tonasket WA 98855. Please mention this newsletter when contacting us for this Special Offer.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Hearts September Theme:

Featured Projects: The Hats 4 the Homeless program is requesting new and/or handmade adult hats, scarves, mittens, gloves, socks, etc. -  Appalachian Outreach, Inc. request ALL, including 'recycled' and/or children's- hats, mittens, coats, boots, and other winter warmth items.  Other theme ideas include donating these  items to your local homeless shelter or local domestic violence shelter. http://www.h-e-a-r-t-s.org/WinterWarmth.html

Also, New Orleans Homeschoolers could still use craft supplies.  If you would like to donate them the address again is:

Susan Gilleland
NOLA Learning Odyssey
501 E Third St
Belle Chasse, LA  70037

CONFERENCES

HENA 2007 CONFERENCE

Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm
February 24-25, 2007
Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ

Bring the whole family to attend the conference and enjoy the workshops!
http://www.hena.us/conference.html

Pricing and downloadable registration forms available at http://www.hena.us/conference/HENAConferenceRegistration.pdf .

Discounts for 2006 HENA members and for early registration.

~~~~

From Susan Frederick at Taffie: Homeschool Educational Cruise to Maya ruins in Yucatan
Date: January 27 - Feb 1, 2007
Location: Galveston to Western Caribbean Homeschoolers Educational Cruises ? January 27, 2007 Mayan Ruins and Caribbean Sea We are offering this economical, educational excursion that could be of interest to homeschoolers who possess the freedom to travel at fantastic off-season rates. This is a repeat of our November 2006 cruise excursion which produced a group of approx 200 homeschoolers. If we can reach our minimum on the January excursion we'll be able to duplicate the November special excursion offering in which we?ll have a private tour of Dzibilchaltun ruins for our group using our own chartered buses and led by archaeologists who have conducted research at the site, and will include a slide-presentation of observed astronomical phenomena there. Onboard educational classes provided for the kids by our trained teachers. Receive a FREE $100 per cabin for every booking. Check website or call for additional info!
www.TeacherEducationalCruises.com
(713) 305-8232
2323 Clear Lake City Blvd. Suite 180-124, Houston, TX 77062.

Thanks,

James Chandler

~~~~~~

Visit HEM's Conference Calendar at http://www.homeedmag.com/blogs/calendar  to find other conventions coming to an area near you. If you are having a conference, seminar or perhaps a getting started homeschooling meeting, here are some FREE resources from Home Education Magazine:

Getting Started: http://www.homeedmag.com/gettingstarted.html    

Questions and Answers: http://www.homeedmag.com/wlcm_hsinf.html  

HEM's Free Information and Resource Guide: http://www.homeedmag.com/ORD/mtrlst.html      

Home Education Magazine Resources: http://www.homeedmag.com/HSRSC/hsrsc_gn.html

FREE ISSUES OF HOME EDUCATION MAGAZINE

Did you know that FREE issues of Home Education Magazine are available to hand out at your conferences, meetings, the library or to new folks?

To request the magazines, contact Stacy at Orders@homeedmag.com   today.  

WEB UPDATES, ANNOUNCEMENTS AND RESOURCES

*****HEM-Recipes: The Homeschool Kitchen - Online!******  Brand new!

The Homeschool Kitchen is a popular column in Home Education Magazine, written by Christine Gable. The introduction to The Homeschool Kitchen reads:

Admidst the incomplete sentences, algebraic equations, hands-on history projects and baskets of laundry that miraculously seem to multiply in the course of a homeschooling parent's day, there is the ever-present need to feed a hungry family. Wouldn't it be great to open the panty or fridge and inspiration strike at mealtime?

Join me for cooking ideas and nutritutional tips that rely on basic whole foods; we'll create tasty meals from that same old uninspiring cupboard stock. With family-friendly recipes and hints, before long, young and old will be measuring, chopping, sauteing and stirring together!

This discussion list is an online extension of Christine's column, offering an expanded collection of recipes, menus for family meals, tips and ideas about cooking, and most importantly, an online source of networking, information, resources, and friendship! http://HEM-Recipes@yahoogroups.com  

Podcasting Folktales and Travel Tales

To listen just go to: http://activated.libsyn.com/  (By the way, you do NOT need an iPod to listen)

website is http://www.activated-storytellers.com

The Homeschool Buyers Co-op recently launched a new Supplier Sweepstakes

program whereby members can win prizes from educational suppliers just for visiting the suppliers' web sites.  Home Education Magazine is now participating.  Prizes have included complete sets of Switched-On Schoolhouse, a video prize pack worth $250, books, curricula, and more.  For more information or to play the Co-op Sweepstakes game, go to http://www.homeschoolbuyersco-op.org/component/option,com_raffle/Itemid,155/

Homeschooljournal.net  is a site for homeschoolers to sign up for their own free blog and to network and support one another. If you've ever thought of starting a blog to journal your homeschooling adventures, now is a great time to start ~ Visit them here www.Homeschooljournal.net   to learn more.

Stillwater Homeschool Alliance ~Building Understanding and Perspective http://groups.yahoo.com/group/StillwaterHomeschoolAlliance/

RetiredHomeEd · Retired Home Educators You've homeschooled for years, and your last child has left for college or career or parenthood. You aren't quite sure where you fit in to the homeschool community now, but you know you miss it. Maybe you continue to help families in some way. You are looking for ways to fill your empty nest with some new joys. Perhaps you are taking up new hobbies or traveling more. Come join this relaxed group of mature, retired homeschool moms and dads. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/RetiredHomeEd/    

UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS 

October - Life Without School
November- Laura Weldon and H.E.A.R.T.

HEM RESOURCES, HEM BLOGS and MORE

HEM Online News: http://www.homeedmag.com/wlcm_hemnewsltr.html

HEM Site Notes: http://www.homeedmag.com/#sitenotes    

HEM NEWS and Commentary: http://www.homeedmag.com/blogs/newscomm/

HEM BLOGS and Networking Lists: http://www.homeedmag.com/wlcm_netwrk.html   

The Homeschool Reader- Collected Articles from Home Education Magazine 1984-1994 https://www.homeedmag.com/ORD/_frm_reader.html    

ONLINE HOME EDUCATION MAGAZINE ARCHIVES

Let's Put on an Information Night - Carol Narigon -  September-October Magazine columnist Carol Narigon share's great insight for anyone wanting to offer a homeschool information workshop. You can access it here:  http://www.homeedmag.com/HEM/235/askcarol.html

Keys to a Successful Co-op  - Wendy Roberts - September-October 2006 - Articles  can be read by clicking on this link: http://www.homeedmag.com/HEM/235/coop.html

The Secret Lives of Children  - Teresa Blalock - September-October 2006 - Articles can be read here: http://www.homeedmag.com/HEM/235/secretlives.html

Be sure to bookmark Home Education Magazine's Support Group page, which can be accessed at: http://www.homeedmag.com/wlcm_groups.html    

Listing your group on the HEM Support Group web pages is a free service provided by Home Education Magazine. To list your group, fill-in the form at http://www.homeedmag.com/groups2.html       

Thanks for taking the time to read this month's newsletter.  I hope you enjoyed reading the interview .  If you would like to feature your group in an upcoming newsletter, please contact me anytime.

Mary Nix

HEM's Support Group Liaison
http://www.homeedmag.com/groups.html  
http://www.homeedmag.com/wlcm_groups.html    

Subscribe to HEM SUPPORT GROUP NEWS here:  http://www.homeedmag.com/news/  (be sure to use the drop down menu and select support group news)

This service is available free. Read the newsletter at: http://www.homeedmag.com/groups/groupnews.html   

Subscribe to Home Education Magazine here: https://www.homeedmag.com/ORD/_frm_order.html  

©2006 Home Education Magazine (All rights reserved). This newsletter is provided as a free service of Home Education Magazine. Readers are encouraged to forward this newsletter in its entirety, including headers and footers, to others who might also find its contents helpful.

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