Homeschooling in Oregon
Here are some useful resources that may be helpful as you are getting started.
Power Homeschool’s Homeschooling in Oregon site highlights resources, helpful tips, support groups, and so much more!
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Oregon
Each state has different rules regarding a parent’s ability to homeschool their children and all the laws that they must follow.
Homeschool Groups and Support in Oregon
Some of the best resources to help homeschool families be successful are homeschool associations, support groups, and co-ops.
How to Start Homeschooling in Oregon
If you have decided that homeschool is a good fit for your family, you are probably wondering how to get started with the whole process.
Field Trips Available to Homeschoolers in Oregon
The flexibility to go on more field trips is one of the many perks of homeschooling.
Find out what Oregon has to offer!
Resources
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Oregon
Many states have rules and guidelines regarding parents homeschooling their children. Here are some links to help you find information regarding Oregon.
Important Considerations for Homeschooling Success
Create a Study Plan
When homeschooling in Oregon, it is important to establish a clean environment where distractions are limited for your child to study on a regular schedule. Study routines are valuable for learning discipline. They also help your child stay on track with weekly, monthly and yearly academic goals. Create a schedule and expect your child to stick to it. Modify the schedule when necessary to help your child stay challenged while still able to achieve your expectations.
Read more: 10 Tips to Effectively Homeschool Online
Build Foundational Knowledge
As your child progresses in their studies, addressing gaps in their foundational knowledge will be crucial to their future success. For example, if your child struggles with basic math, it may become nearly impossible for them to master more advanced math concepts until they get help with their basic math challenges. In Acellus courses, Vectored Instruction automatically takes into account a student’s existing knowledge gaps and provides targeted interventions to bridge those gaps. If a student lacks the foundational understanding required for the new concept, the system automatically provides relevant remedial content before proceeding further.
It is crucial that students achieve early success with online learning so that their confidence will grow. Sometimes it may be necessary to place your child into an earlier course so they can begin experiencing success before they are ready to start moving forward with their learning.
Read more: Helping Your Student Excel in Acellus
KEEP RECORDS AND DOCUMENTATION
You should keep thorough records of your child’s education. This will be beneficial when they apply for colleges or jobs after high school. Power Homeschool’s online parent portal automatically makes it easy to track progress, download coursework examples, attendance, and keep transcripts of classes taken.
It is also a good idea to get student ID cards and parent/teacher ID cards. Many retailers and venues offer teacher or student discounts that can be claimed by showing ID cards. A professional student ID card with a good quality identification photo included is also an good way to show that your student is enrolled is a reputable homeschool program.
Resources
Homeschool Support & Groups in Oregon
When beginning to homeschool, joining a support group or organization is one of the best ways to get helpful tips, advice, and resources. In Oregon, homeschoolers have access to a variety of different types of support, including two statewide homeschool associations.
The Oregon Home Education Network (OHEN) and Oregon Christian Home Education Association Network (OCEANetwork) are organizations that offer support and encouragement to homeschool families in Oregon. Both associations provide events, workshops, and other valuable resources to enhance home education.
In addition to two statewide homeschool associations, Oregon homeschoolers can join homeschool support groups and co-ops to connect with other families. Homeschool support groups allow parents to share advice and stories, while students can socialize with peers and make friends. Some support groups are online, while others meet regularly in person. Often, homeschool support groups will organize events, field trips, or other group activities, as well.
Homeschool co-ops are similar to support groups, but they are more academic focused and allow homeschoolers to learn in group settings. Homeschool co-ops can provide general instruction, while others focus on a particular subject or provide instruction around religious teachings. Both homeschool support groups and co-ops can be found online since most of them have Facebook pages or websites.
The following are just a few examples of all the different types of support available to homeschool families in Oregon:
Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!
How to Start Homeschooling in OREGON
When starting homeschooling for the first time, it is very common to have questions about best practices, useful resources, and how to get started. Our helpful guide to starting homeschool is a good place to start. In Oregon, you’ll need to submit a Notice of Intent once you decide that homeschooling is the best decision for your family. The notice should include the name and birthday of each child being homeschool, as well as your address and the school they previously attended.
Once you submit the necessary paperwork, you’ll need to select a homeschool curriculum program. Power Homeschool is an online program with courses available for K-12 students. In addition to our classes, parents and students receive helpful tools to get familiar with online learning.
Resources
Homeschool Field Trips in Oregon
Homeschooling has many perks, and one of these is the ability to incorporate more hands-on learning and enrichment activities than the traditional classroom can manage. Going to museums, getting up close with animals, and exploring science centers are all great ways to make the material learned in class come to life before your student’s eyes.
Oregon is home to many different field trip destinations. However, the following are examples to give you ideas for your next field trip.
- Tumalo Falls in Bend: Located in the Deschutes National Forest, Tumalo Falls allows visitors to explore the earth’s geographical landforms. Students will enjoy seeing wildlife and viewing the beautiful scenery of the Pacific Northwest.
- Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City: Through live demonstrations, exciting exhibits, and special events, visitors will learn about the Oregon Trail and the pioneers who made their journey west while facing many trials and dangers along the way.
- Baker Heritage Museum in Baker City: This museum features displays and exhibits of local history and culture, making it the perfect field trip to learn about mining, ranching, wildlife, pioneers, and much more.
- Hood National Forest in Sandy: Exploring the Mt. Hood National Forest will be a great way for homeschoolers to learn about the region’s natural environment, including flora and fauna native to the area.
- Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport: Learn about birds, fish, and other aquatic species that are native to Oregon’s coast at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Homeschool programs offer a variety of educational opportunities, including lab programs and special tours.
- Portland Art Museum in Portland: As the oldest art museum on the west coast, this museum is home to works of art from cultures around the world. The family free days allow children of all ages to explore exhibitions and partake in activities.
- Wildlife Safari in Winston: With camps, classes, and educational programs, young animal lovers will enjoy getting to learn about wildlife and even get close up views of lions, bald eagles, elephants, and so much more.
- Oregon State Capitol in Salem: What better way to learn about Oregon’s history, culture, and government than by touring the state capitol building. Guided tours are seasonally available, as well.
- Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum in McMinnville: With an IMAX theater, military and civilian aircrafts, and two exhibits, this museum is the perfect place for students to learn about aviation and space exploration. The museum offers educational programs and homeschool days.
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