Homeschooling in West Virginia
Here are some useful resources that may be helpful as you are getting started.
Power Homeschool’s Homeschooling in West Virginia site highlights resources, helpful tips, support groups, and so much more!
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in West Virginia
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 West Virginia
Some of the best resources to help homeschool families be successful are homeschool associations, support groups, and co-ops.
How to Start Homeschooling in West Virginia
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 West Virginia
The flexibility to go on more field trips is one of the many perks of homeschooling.
Find out what West Virginia has to offer!
Resources
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in West Virginia
Many states have rules and guidelines regarding parents homeschooling their children. Here are some links to help you find information regarding West Virginia.
Important Considerations for Homeschooling Success
Create a Study Plan
When homeschooling in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia
Transitioning to homeschool education can be daunting for both the parent and student. Luckily, many organizations and groups provide homeschoolers with advice and resources throughout their homeschool journey.
Home associations are statewide organizations that offer numerous benefits for members and non-members across the state. Almost every state has at least one homeschool association, but West Virginia is lucky enough to have two.
- Christian Home Educators of West Virginia (CHEWV) is an association the protects and advances home education by offering resources to homeschoolers, specifically information about legislation and current and pending issues.
- West Virginia Home Educators Association (WVHEA) is a secular organization that offers an information contact line, contacts for homeschool help in each county, a regular newsletter, and various homeschool events throughout the year.
In addition to homeschool association, support groups and cooperatives allow homeschoolers to meet other parents and students in their areas. Some homeschool support groups operate online via Facebook or online forums; however, many regularly meet in person. Support groups are for home educators to share experiences and receive advice about all things relating to homeschool. There are many homeschool support groups in West Virginia based on city or region, as well as several groups founded on religious values. The following are just a few examples of the many homeschool support groups out there:
- Boone County Homeschool Association
- Eastern Panhandle Homeschool Conference (EPHSC)
- REACH Homeschool Group – WV
- We Are Homeschoolers Support Group
Homeschool cooperatives or co-ops are more academic-focused and give homeschoolers the chance to participate in group learning. Co-ops are volunteer-based groups typically taught by alternating parents or hired tutors. Some co-ops focus on a specific subject area, while others structure lessons around religious beliefs. There are a wide variety of homeschool co-ops in West Virginia, so you are sure to find a group that aligns with your family’s beliefs and needs. Most homeschool support groups and co-ops have Facebook pages, so you can easily find one with a Facebook search.
Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!
How to Get Started Homeschooling in West VIRGINIA
If you are new to home education, it can be a nerve-wracking transition. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help you start homeschooling in West Virginia. First, you will want to research the two homeschooling options and select one that you won’t have trouble following. Your next steps will vary based on this decision.
You will also need to create a homeschool curriculum or choose a program, such as Power Homeschool. Both parents and students have access to various resources in addition to the online curriculum that guides instruction. Learn more about Power Homeschool and how we can help you get started homeschooling today!
Resources
Homeschool Field Trips West Virginia
Field trips allow lessons and concepts come to life in the eyes of students. West Virginia has many options when it comes to field trip destinations, including historical sites, museums, zoos, and so much more. Some places even have special events or programs for homeschoolers.
- Oglebay Good Zoo in Wheeling: Explore various wildlife species and their native habitats at this 30-acre zoo. Homeschool programs are available to offer hands-on learning opportunities for students of all ages.
- Huntington Museum of Art in Huntington: As the largest art museum in West Virginia, this art museum houses collections of paintings, sculptures, glass, prints, and more from cultures and countries around the world. Educational programs are also available.
- Clay Center for the Arts and Science of West Virginia in Charleston: With an art museum and discovery center, the Clay Center has many educational opportunities. Hands-on exhibits, workshops, special events, and concerts at the performance hall offer something for the whole family.
- Lost World Caverns in Lewisburg: Exploring caverns will enhance any geology or science unit. Self-guided and guided tours are available for visitors to see the cave’s formation, including the Snowy Chandelier and Ice Cream Wall.
- Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park in Hillsboro: This park features reenactments of the Battle of Droop Mountain, which was the last major Civil War conflict that took place in West Virginia. When there aren’t reenactments, homeschoolers can explore hiking trails and go on picnics.
- Cannan Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Davis: Homeschoolers can learn about various wildlife species and conservation through animal viewings and environmental education programs.
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