Guide to Homeschooling in Oregon

Resources

Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Oregon

If you have any questions about legally homeschooling in Oregon, we recommend reaching out to the  Home School Legal Defense Association or Oregon Department of Education. Statewide homeschool associations often offer legal advice or information, as well.

RECORD KEEPING

Although homeschoolers in Oregon do not need to submit any records, keeping thorough records of a child’s homeschool education is always encouraged. Things like progress reports, standardized testing results, and samples of coursework are all things to considering keeping on file. These items make it easier for students who plan to pursue post-secondary education or ever transfer to public or private schools.

Power Homeschool’s online program automatically generates progress reports and transcripts, so parents can easily access these documents when they log in to the parent portal. Parents can also download coursework, track progress, and record attendance.

HOMESCHOOL STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENTS IN OREGON

Oregon homeschool laws require homeschool students to participate in approved standardized assessments to evaluate academic progress. Parents can choose any test that the Oregon Board of Education has approved.

HOMESCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS IN OREGON

In Oregon, parents are responsible for issuing high school diplomas to their homeschoolers as well as for establishing their graduation requirements. We recommend that you establish these requirements based on what your student plans to do after high school, whether that is pursuing higher education or joining the workforce. Many universities, colleges, trade schools, and employers will share their homeschool eligibility requirements.

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:

• Legacy Guardian
• Southern Oregon Classical Conversations
• Village Home
• Albany Homeschool Co-op
• Jackson County Home Educators
• First Choice Eastside Portland Home School Co-op

Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!

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.