Homeschooling in Vermont
Here are some useful resources that may be helpful as you are getting started.
Power Homeschool’s Homeschooling in Vermont site highlights resources, helpful tips, support groups, and so much more!
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in Vermont
Each state has different rules regarding a parent’s ability to homeschool their children and all the laws that they must follow.
Homeschool Associations and Support Groups in Vermont
Some of the best resources to help homeschool families be successful are homeschool associations, support groups, and co-ops.
How to Start Homeschooling in Vermont
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 Vermont
The flexibility to go on more field trips is one of the many perks of homeschooling.
Find out what Vermont has to offer!
Resources
Vermont Homeschool Laws and Requirements
Many states have rules and guidelines regarding parents homeschooling their children. Here are some links to help you find information regarding Vermont.
Important Considerations for Homeschooling Success
Create a Study Plan
When homeschooling in Vermont, 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 Associations & Support Groups in Vermont
Homeschooling support groups and co-ops are often created by parents involved in homeschooling. These groups give families the opportunity to share resources, advice, and information about homeschooling with one another.
Homeschooling groups also might offer group activities, meet-ups, events, and other opportunities.
Unlike support groups, co-ops tend to be more focused on academics. Some co-ops offer weekly or monthly learning opportunities for homeschooling families. In co-ops, parents might also alternate teaching either various subjects to homeschooled students.
Both of these types of groups offer homeschooling families the ability to come together to home educate their children based on their age and interests. These groups can help families with homeschooling support, legal advice, resources, and other information.
Here are a few options for support groups in Vermont:
Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!
How to Get Started Homeschooling in Vermont
To get started homeschooling your children in Vermont, check out our handy guide. Step one should always be to research the laws and regulations about homeschooling in Vermont. This will help you avoid legal trouble with your state government.
Choosing a curriculum is also a big step for homeschooling families. Power Homeschool is an online K-12 curriculum with a variety of courses to choose from. In addition to these courses, our program offers tools and resources to help new homeschoolers transition to at-home learning.
Resources
Homeschool Field Trips in Vermont
Vermont is rich with history, which means that there are all kinds of places that you could take your child on amazing field trips. In addition to historical sites, there are zoos, museums, and other places where learning and adventure meet. Here are a few ideas for you:
- Bennington Museum in Bennington: The Bennington Museum has exhibits showcasing art, history, and innovation. Exhibits contain artifacts from the 18thcentury until today.
- Brattleboro Museum and Art Center in Brattleboro: Founded in 1972, the Brattleboro Museum and Art Center features works from living artists in six galleries that rotate every three to four months, meaning that there is something new to see at the museum frequently. The museum also hosts cultural and educational events.
- Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium in Johnsbury: This natural history museum has over 30,000 pieces in its collection. The planetarium at this museum is the only one in the state.
- Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich: With more than 150 science exhibits at this 100-acre museum, there is something every student can learn. This museum offers many hands-on experiments for students to participate in.
- Rock of Ages in Barre: Tour the Rock of Ages quarry during the warm months of the year. During the tour, you can see how Vermont granite and marble are manufactured and browse historical exhibits. The tour takes you to the overlook at the Smith Quarry, where you can look down nearly 600 feet into the largest operating deep-hole, dimension granite quarry in the world.
- Shelburne Museum in Shelburne: This museum is coveted for its rich experience of American history, design, and art. There are 45-acres to explore, featuring 39 structures. Children often love to explore the gardens when the weather is nice.
- Vermont Teddy Bear Company in Shelburne: Take a tour of the Vermont Teddy Bear Company factory, where you will see teddy bears made by hand. This tour is both fun and informative. Kids 12 and under can tour the factory for free.
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