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Connections Academy Homeschool Questions

by Tania Fuentes
(Safford, AZ United States)

Homeschool Questions

Inquisitive fifteen year-old teen wants to learn more about Connections Academy's free online homeschooling program? Got answers? Please help...

Hello my name is Tania Fuentes.

I was wondering if you guys truly do send a free computer and supplies?

Also are all the internet connections free too?

I am curious because I wanted to join a homeschool program and I am 15 years old.

Please if you guys can send me an e-mail to answer all my questions please do.

Thank you so much!

Sincerely,
Tania

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Connections Academy Homeschool Questions

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Sep 29, 2009
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alot depends on if it is through the public school system
by: mrs dani

There is an old saying, "Beware of Trojan horses"

It applies here. Here in SC the Connections Academy (along with k-12) is actually public school at home. A buddy of mine learned the hard way what this was.

Now if you are just leaving the public school system and have no idea what you are doing, this may be a good place to START. If you have been homeschooling a while, you will soon regret using this (as told to me by those who tried this)

As for the free materials and computer; you HAVE TO USE THEM. If your child has a different learning sytle...too bad. You must use it. The computer and internet access will be restricted. A friend of mine tried to get onto a Veggie Tales site and found that since it was religious (Christian) it was blocked. You can not use THEIR (the school's) computer for religious reasons.

A buddy of mine (and several others) tried to tell the school district that they discovered something the Academy said do was not working. They were told, "we have hired educational experts and they know better than you. You are just not doing it right." Several weeks later at a meeting, they mothers were told that the educational experts had decided to change that same thing because THEY decided it would not work.

They also found out that they could no longer just drop their lessons for the day to go to a special exhibit at the zoo or anything else. If the kids were not signed on the computer by a certain time to do school work, a call from the district came within an hour and with a very demeaning attitude gave a speech about being active in their child's education.

From those who have tried it around here, they do not suggest it. Again this would depend I suppose it would depend on the school district. Of course, if they were really any good, we wouldn't have to homeschool

Again, this would only be a good option for the first year of homeschooling if you are pulling your kids out of the higher grades.

You are better off contacting your state homeschool group and get some really helpful info. Google search or go to www.hslda.org and click on your state. They will have a list of many (not all) homeschool groups in your area. I know the lure of free materials and computers are tempting, but again, you get what you pay for. Please look into other options. Get in touch with other homeschoolers in your are and they can help you find discounted supplies (I know some who even have done it for no money!..thanks to the library and the internet)

Good Luck and do not give up!

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Sep 29, 2009
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Submitted by: mrs dani

Title

Comment
There is an old saying, "Beware of Trojan horses" It applies here. Here in SC the Connections Academy (along with k-12) is actually public school at home. A buddy of mine learned the hard way what this was. Now if you are just leaving the public school system and have no idea what you are doing, this may be a good place to START. If you have been homeschooling a while, you will soon regret using this (as told to me by those who tried this) As for the free materials and computer; you HAVE TO USE THEM. If your child has a different learning sytle...too bad. You must use it. The computer and internet access will be restricted. A friend of mine tried to get onto a Veggie Tales site and found that since it was religious (Christian) it was blocked. You can not use THEIR (the school's) computer for religious reasons. A buddy of mine (and several others) tried to tell the school district that they discovered something the Academy said do was not working. They were told, "we have hired educational experts and they know better than you. You are just not doing it right." Several weeks later at a meeting, they mothers were told that the educational experts had decided to change that same thing because THEY decided it would not work. They also found out that they could no longer just drop their lessons for the day to go to a special exhibit at the zoo or anything else. If the kids were not signed on the computer by a certain time to do school work, a call from the district came within an hour and with a very demeaning attitude gave a speech about being active in their child's education. From those who have tried it around here, they do not suggest it. Again this would depend I suppose it would depend on the school district. Of course, if they were really any good, we wouldn't have to homeschool Again, this would only be a good option for the first year of homeschooling if you are pulling your kids out of the higher grades. You are better off contacting your state homeschool group and get some really helpful info. Google search or go to www.hslda.org and click on your state. They will have a list of many (not all) homeschool groups in your area. I know the lure of free materials and computers are tempting, but again, you get what you pay for. Please look into other options. Get in touch with other homeschoolers in your are and they can help you find discounted supplies (I know some who even have done it for no money!..thanks to the library and the internet) Good Luck and do not give up!

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Sep 29, 2009
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What Do I Do???
by: Anonymous

So as I can see you are trying to say for me NOT
to get into this school because, it's too strict??

They don't include any of the things they say they do, and you say if you can't do school for some certain reson the will call you and talk to you in a very mean tone??

This is my first time being a homeschooler.
I'm usually at a public school but, this year i wanted to try out homeschooling and see how it went.

Well hope you write me back and tell me what homeschooling site would be good for me.

Sep 29, 2009
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Connections Academy Concerns
by: Heather

Hi Tania,
I don't think she is saying not to try the Connections Academy homeschooling program, she is just giving you some warnings. I'm sure each state and district is run a little differently.

When it comes to homeschooling, each state has different homeschooling laws. Perhaps states with more requirements dictate how the Connections program operates. More requirements = stricter guidelines.

I don't think the above poster realized that you were a teen looking for help.

Connections Academy is an online public school program that can be done through homeschooling.

I personally think that it may be a great option for you. Once you begin homeschooling, you may find other programs that you like better, or may want to become more independent in your homeschooling.

Many homeschool families do not use government homeschooling programs. Instead they homeschool privately. When you choose this option, you will not find free computers, and other perks that government run programs offer.

You can read other reviews of Connections Academy here:

K-12 Virtual Homeschooling

Free Online Homeschooling

Hope this helps!
Blessings,
Heather

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Sep 29, 2009
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Submitted by: Heather

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Hi Tania, I don't think she is saying not to try the Connections Academy homeschooling program, she is just giving you some warnings. I'm sure each state and district is run a little differently. When it comes to homeschooling, each state has different homeschooling laws. Perhaps states with more requirements dictate how the Connections program operates. More requirements = stricter guidelines. I don't think the above poster realized that you were a teen looking for help. Connections Academy is an online public school program that can be done through homeschooling. I personally think that it may be a great option for you. Once you begin homeschooling, you may find other programs that you like better, or may want to become more independent in your homeschooling. Many homeschool families do not use government homeschooling programs. Instead they homeschool privately. When you choose this option, you will not find free computers, and other perks that government run programs offer. You can read other reviews of Connections Academy here: <a target=_blank href="http://www.homeschool-curriculum-savings.com/k-12-virtual-homeschooling-curriculum-review.html">K-12 Virtual Homeschooling</a> <a target=_blank href="http://www.homeschool-curriculum-savings.com/free-online-homeschooling-with-k12.html">Free Online Homeschooling</a> Hope this helps! Blessings, Heather

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Sep 29, 2009
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Connections Academy Virtual Public School Answers
by: Carrie Jean

Hi Tania,

My son graduated from (Idaho)Inspire Connections Academy last year and it was a great experience.

At the Arizona Connections Academy public virtual charter school, students get one desktop computer and monitor per household + $50.85 every three months (Payments are made three times a year: the first week of December, the first week of March and the first week of June).

Check out some of the student videos that were posted in a recent video contest - http://memelabs.com/connectionsacademy

Connections Academy schools are public schools (like the ones you see in your neighborhood). They have teachers, and classes, books, clubs, etc., but you do all of these things from your home - that's why it's called a virtual public school(or anywhere you can get on the internet...like a library).
It can be confusing when you talk about a public school that students attend from home and homeschooling. Although Connections Academy and homeschooling have some similar attributes, Connections Academy is not homeschooling. All Connections Academy schools are public school programs. All Connections Academy students are required to take state standardized tests and the schools are accountable for the students' performance to regulatory authorities. Your parents will need to sign all the required forms allowing you to enroll in the Arizona Connections Academy virtual school.

When you use the computer, you agree to only use it for school. The computer is like the school bus for the school. You wouldn't take the school bus out 4 wheeling in the mountains, if you wreck the bus you couldn't go to school. To make sure that you don't go to a website that may have a virus, you agree to only use the computer for school work. If you go to a website that causes a problem for the computer, and ruins the computer you might not be able to do your school work. Since they can't screen every website being created everyday, it's best to only use the computer for school assignments.

In Grades 9-12 in Arizona, you must be logged into the computer, and doing your school work for at least 20 hours a week. One day you might do 4 hours and another day 6 hours, but at the end of the week, you need to show that you were in school for 20 hours.

If something wasn't working out, or my son didn't understand a lesson, he was able to contact the teacher and they helped make adjustments. He graduated with a diploma and has moved on to his college classes! So if you enroll and you have questions, make sure you ask someone for help. They do a great job. Did you see the student/parent satisfaction report on their homepage? http://www.connectionsacademy.com/arizona-school/proven-results.aspx

Carrie Jean

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Sep 29, 2009
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Submitted by: Carrie Jean

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Hi Tania, My son graduated from (Idaho)Inspire Connections Academy last year and it was a great experience. At the Arizona Connections Academy public virtual charter school, students get one desktop computer and monitor per household + $50.85 every three months (Payments are made three times a year: the first week of December, the first week of March and the first week of June). Check out some of the student videos that were posted in a recent video contest - http://memelabs.com/connectionsacademy Connections Academy schools are public schools (like the ones you see in your neighborhood). They have teachers, and classes, books, clubs, etc., but you do all of these things from your home - that's why it's called a virtual public school(or anywhere you can get on the internet...like a library). It can be confusing when you talk about a public school that students attend from home and homeschooling. Although Connections Academy and homeschooling have some similar attributes, Connections Academy is not homeschooling. All Connections Academy schools are public school programs. All Connections Academy students are required to take state standardized tests and the schools are accountable for the students' performance to regulatory authorities. Your parents will need to sign all the required forms allowing you to enroll in the Arizona Connections Academy virtual school. When you use the computer, you agree to only use it for school. The computer is like the school bus for the school. You wouldn't take the school bus out 4 wheeling in the mountains, if you wreck the bus you couldn't go to school. To make sure that you don't go to a website that may have a virus, you agree to only use the computer for school work. If you go to a website that causes a problem for the computer, and ruins the computer you might not be able to do your school work. Since they can't screen every website being created everyday, it's best to only use the computer for school assignments. In Grades 9-12 in Arizona, you must be logged into the computer, and doing your school work for at least 20 hours a week. One day you might do 4 hours and another day 6 hours, but at the end of the week, you need to show that you were in school for 20 hours. If something wasn't working out, or my son didn't understand a lesson, he was able to contact the teacher and they helped make adjustments. He graduated with a diploma and has moved on to his college classes! So if you enroll and you have questions, make sure you ask someone for help. They do a great job. Did you see the student/parent satisfaction report on their homepage? http://www.connectionsacademy.com/arizona-school/proven-results.aspx Carrie Jean

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Sep 29, 2009
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Thanks Carrie Jean!
by: Heather

Thanks, Carrie Jean, for all your help, and for clarifying the difference between homeschooling and doing school at home, through a virtual public school.

It's much appreciated!
Heather :)

Oct 02, 2009
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ok
by: Anonymous

So then you think i should get into this homeschooling program because, i have been called from other schools but, i was waiting to see what you though i should do.

Alot of people are telling me to get into this school and the same goes for the other schools.

So yeah write me back and tell me what you think.

Thank you!

Sincerly,
Tania

Oct 05, 2009
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Homeschooling Questions
by: Heather

Hi again, Tania,

I know some decisions are difficult to make. I don't think anyone here can really tell you what you should or shouldn't do.

You are acting wisely by researching these different options first, instead of jumping right in not knowing what you are getting yourself into.

Don't forget to seek your parent's/guardian's counsel before deciding what to do. I do admire that you are taking a vested interest in your own education. Take some time to communicate the different options you are considering, and the pros and cons, with those who care about you.

When making big decisions, sometimes it helps to write everything down, so you can see everything clearly.

You can homeschool without government-funded programs. I know the lure of free computers, books and other materials is enticing, but free isn't always the best (and from my experience, "free" is never really free.) You have to decide.

Arizona homeschool laws are non-restrictive. To homeschoool in Arizona, your parent or guardian must file an affidavit of intent to homeschool with the county school superintendent within 30 days after homeschooling begins.

You will find lots of resources at your library and through homeschool groups in your area. (If you need help locating a group, let me know.)

Hippocampus.org offers many free courses you can take to complete your high school diploma.

Some local homeschool groups will provide scholarships and free curriculum to those who are experiencing financial difficulties.

You can download a free homeschool transcript template from our website to record your grades, etc. for college admissions.

Although homeschooling looks ominous at first, it really isn't. If your parents need help, other home educators would love to help them.

I hope this helps, Tania.
If you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to let me know. I am interested in knowing what you decide to do.

Blessings,
Heather

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Oct 05, 2009
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Submitted by: Heather

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Hi again, Tania, I know some decisions are difficult to make. I don't think anyone here can really tell you what you should or shouldn't do. You are acting wisely by researching these different options first, instead of jumping right in not knowing what you are getting yourself into. Don't forget to seek your parent's/guardian's counsel before deciding what to do. I do admire that you are taking a vested interest in your own education. Take some time to communicate the different options you are considering, and the pros and cons, with those who care about you. When making big decisions, sometimes it helps to write everything down, so you can see everything clearly. You can homeschool without government-funded programs. I know the lure of free computers, books and other materials is enticing, but free isn't always the best (and from my experience, "free" is never really free.) You have to decide. Arizona homeschool laws are non-restrictive. To homeschoool in Arizona, your parent or guardian must file an affidavit of intent to homeschool with the county school superintendent within 30 days after homeschooling begins. You will find lots of resources at your library and through homeschool groups in your area. (If you need help locating a group, let me know.) Hippocampus.org offers many free courses you can take to complete your high school diploma. Some local homeschool groups will provide scholarships and free curriculum to those who are experiencing financial difficulties. You can download a free <a target=_blank href="http://www.homeschool-curriculum-savings.com/homeschool-transcript-template.html">homeschool transcript template</a> from our website to record your grades, etc. for college admissions. Although homeschooling looks ominous at first, it really isn't. If your parents need help, other home educators would love to help them. I hope this helps, Tania. If you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to let me know. I am interested in knowing what you decide to do. Blessings, Heather

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Oct 14, 2009
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school
by: Anonymous

So can any of you guys give me some school sights to go look at to see which one i like best?

I need to find a good school thats why.

Sincerly,
Tania

Jan 18, 2010
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TO CARRIE JEAN!
by: Sophie

Hi Carrie, I am 14 and also looking into Connections Academy for "homeschooling". When you talked about that payment, I thought it was free? So it's actually $180/yr?! Please let me know details and if this is true. Thanks! :)

Feb 01, 2010
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Reply to Sophie
by: Heather

Hi Sophie,
I noticed that Carrie Jean did not reply to your question yet. I contacted Connections Academy - hopefully someone will answer your question.
Blessings,
Heather

Feb 03, 2010
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Connection Academy
by: Ina

My son is at Texas Connection academy for the first time home school. The curriculum is excellent, the materials are good, we search different pages religious, facebook, etc. I don't have anything blocked by the school I do the blocking in the websites I want.
SAm is in advance classes in 7 and 8 grade and preparing to take pre-college classes in the summer.
Teacher are really great, answer e-mail as soon as they received them, and are always willing to help by phone at any time.
Of course I'm talking about Texas Connection Academy don't know about any other state.
It is a lot of work, and dedication, is like attending school at home. We don't have much time to field trips, or free time like others home school do, but we are fine with the routine and is working for us.
Thank you..God Bless

Feb 17, 2010
Rating

No Time Restrictions at Connections Academy
by: Gina

Dear Tania, My daughter is enrolled in the fourth grade at Connections Academy in SC. We have had positive results,There isn't a specific time that you have to do your lessons are log-in.My daughter logs in sometimes at 8am for live lessons,and these lessons are not mandatory---her teacher records the lessons and she can view them anytime she chooses(day or night),that's the great thing about Connections Academy(flexible schedule)as long as my daughter does 5 hours a day(no time restrictions) she's done.The electives are also great,from robotics to learning Japanese if that's something your interested in. I would recommend it to anyone. My daughter is in a safe environment and she's not exposed to all the illness's that she was before in a brick and mortar school.The hours of instruction may differ in your state.I think for high school it may be 6 hours mandatory instructional time. Good luck to you.

Feb 24, 2010
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can you tell me sometings pleas.
by: Anonymous

Hi I'm 13 and I have been home-schooling for all of my life, But I don't feel like I am were I am so pose to be in school. you see I am very bad at spelling. And I am not that good at math to, my mom and dad are always helping me a lot........But I don't seem to be going anywhere.....I was looking into Pa Connections Academy, but I don't know how they do things. I would like to find out what a kid that is 13 would do in like 4 weeks something like that so can one of you tell me pleas.

Thank you.

Apr 27, 2010
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I love Connections Academy!
by: A mom

My son goes to Wisconsin Connections Academy and it is WONDERFUL. YOu can check in when you want, as long as you get the work done! My son is working ahead, but sometimes he (and others) are behind. As long as the assignements are in by the end of the semester, it's ok. The teachers don't want you to get far behind, because it's hard to catch up, so whenever possible, we work ahead. My son will probably be "done" with school in mid May...and then he can design his own study programs (observing birds for science, designing a study of what fish like what temp water, etc. ) It works great for my son and my family. The teacher is divine and the curriculum is outstanding. His math scores on the state testing have gone up more than 50 points because he ahs learned so much. I think it's wonderful am going to enroll my other 2 kids.

Apr 29, 2010
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Responses from online teachers.
by: Anonymous

Every time I talk to someone at Connections Academy, I feel like I am talking to a robot who has the correct answers drilled into their heads. Has anyone else experienced this? I want to talk to a person who teaches school, or the principal. I am not interested in talking to sales staff, even though it is free to my child. I want to know that my children will be talking to actual people who care.

Concerned.

May 25, 2010
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Connections
by: Anonymous

Just to clarify...Connections is NOT homeschool. Also, some states do not fund for computers. There is no charge for the schools that are in public charter school districts, but Connections also has a private school for the states that do not fund for virtual charter schools (there is a cost for the private school). The teachers we have met have been super nice and helpful. Again, PUBLIC SCHOOLS like Connections do have to meet state requirements. So, taking a day out of school to go to the zoo is fine, you just have to make up the missed time.

Jun 26, 2010
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Connections Academy
by: new to homeschool

I am enrolling two of my children in michigan connections academy for the first time this year. They have previously attended local regular public school. During my decision making process whether or not to go through connections academy, we were able to meet face-to-face with a teacher from connections. She was friendly and personable, intelligent, easy going, answered our questions clearly on consisely, and I was certain we were making a good decision. I am anticipating a wonderful school year. Also, something to think about when choosing a homeschooling option, I'm no expert, like I said, I'm new to homeschooling, but it is my understanding that if you do not participate in an accredited program, free or otherwise, you may not be able to graduate with a diploma that will be recongnized by colleges, employers, etc. This was a big consideration for me, and was an integral part of our decision to choose connections academy because it is a public school. Thanks.

Jul 21, 2010
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Virtual Schools
by: Texas

My 2 students have attended Texas Virtual Academy for 2 years. We decided to enroll them in Texas Connections Academy this year because their curriculum and elective classes are better. My students are in the gifted programs and enjoy the flexibility of when they do their schoolwork. I chose these programs because they provide the textbooks, lessons, and schedule. I still teach my students and consider us "home schooled" but do not have to schedule and purchase curriculum. It is great for us and I know my students are at the same level or higher than their peers.

It does take dedication and attention on a daily basis. Of course, to achieve any quality education you will need to dedicate yourself and strive to meet goals. This is a prepackaged way to school at home and is a fantastic answer for those who want to home school but also need assistance.

K from TX

Aug 12, 2010
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Can you get a free laptop?
by: Anonymous

What about for the laptops? Instead of a desktop! And can it only be used for the website or can it be used for other websites just ones that arent bad or have viruses! Please let me know! :)

Aug 13, 2010
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Computer provided
by: Texas

Beggars can't be choosers...

TXVA provides a desktop, monitor and printer. You do not get to choose the equipment. You can use the computer to access the internet but know that you are responsible for the computer.

Aug 13, 2010
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REGISTRATION PROCESS
by: CJ

HOW LONG IS THE REGISTRATION PROCESS?

Aug 13, 2010
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REGISTRATION PROCESS
by: CJ

HOW LONG IS THE REGISTRATION PROCESS?

Aug 14, 2010
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Registration process & thoughts
by: Karen

Hi- I have enrolled my son a 6th grader in SC Connections Academy for this school year and the whole registration process has been a breeze, except for the fact that I was hurt and hospitalized and unable to continue getting everything together for 3wks, however when I was able to get back to it the finish took two days and we received our books and materials in 3 days(they said it could take up to 3wks).
We are very excited about the new schooling option we have chosen. People need to realize that this is "Public School" with the same rules as brick & mortar public schools, but with the perks of homeschooling.
We are Christians and I have prayed for several years about being able to either homeschool my son or put him into private school and I believe that this is the answer to my prayers.
We did not get a computer from the school, we had to purchase our own, which I don't mind because it is "ours" to keep. I am going to find a great online Bible study for my son and have him do a daily lesson.
Also, because of the flexible schedule we will do some hours of volunteer work each week(not sure if he will get any credit for it but it will help him be a more generous and thankful person).
I am excited about the upcoming year.

God bless,
Karen

Aug 19, 2010
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Re:
by: Anonymous

Thanks Karen,

I was very excited about getting started. Unfortunately, because my son is in 2nd grade he won't be starting here in Texas this year...Texas Connections starts at 3rd grade. Now, I don't know what i'm going to do. I need to find a homeschool group in my area that can help me with my situation. Unfortunately, I have waited till the last minute to get started due to other matters. I am at a lost as what to do...But something has to be done. Is there any advice or resources that you know of that can help me in such a short notice??? If, so, I would greatly appreciate it!!! Thanks Again!

CJ

Aug 22, 2010
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Start with your state's laws
by: Anonymous

Before you decide to do homeschooling, or school from home, make sure you have checked into the laws in your state. For example, NC has a law that you have to register your homeschool with the state and receive a "license" to operate.

I just checked into NC Connections Academy and it is definitely not free. How Connections works depends on your state. The Connections Academy website said it would cost over $2,000 a semester and is a private school in NC. Please be very careful of anything that says it is "free" because there is almost always a cost involved. I know someone who has had success with Connections Academy in SC, but as I said, be careful that you are getting all the information about the laws in your state first.

Aug 31, 2010
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CJ
by: Anonymous

CJ,

Calvert School looks to be similar to that of Connections Academy. It is the homeschooling option rather than the free public education.

Check it out on the internet.

Dana

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