Class is now in session! Homeschooling has become an increasingly popular option for families in our area and throughout the country. If you are a parent who has contemplated whether homeschooling might be for you, but are not sure where to start, we’ve got you covered!
Homeschool History
There are numerous benefits to homeschooling, which can aid in mental, physical, social, and emotional development for children of all different ages and temperaments. However, there are many aspects to be considered, such as state laws regarding requirements of parents and children who homeschool, as well as curricula, styles of homeschooling, and local support groups. It is important to know that to begin homeschooling, a family must communicate with their local school district to submit a letter of intent to homeschool, as well as an expected homeschool schedule. Getting started can seem daunting, but Homeschool Pennsylvania‘s site is a great jumping off point, and lists many useful links, FAQs and more. In addition, Pennsylvania is one of the only states to have an accredited homeschool diploma program in place through the Pennsylvania Homeschoolers Accreditation Agency, which often results in PA homeschool graduates’ advantage as they begin to acquire employment after graduation.
Luckily, there is an amazing number of resources available to homeschooling families in this region, including support groups, co-ops, educational programs, and more.
*Local* Homeschool Programming
✍️BLOOMSBURG CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Homeschool Hangouts: Parent/child activities are designed to complement concepts taught in the homeschool curriculum, grades K-12 – reduced admission for homeschool families, free for members.
✍️BLOOMSBURG PUBLIC LIBRARY
Let’s Explore: A once a month program engaging kids in hands on learning and STEM activities.
✍️DEGENSTEIN COMMUNITY LIBRARY (Sunbury)
Homeschool Quest: A once a month program – Homeschooling families are invited to join for a variety of games, crafts, and other activities.
✍️NED SMITH CENTER FOR NATURE AND ART (Millersburg)
Homeschool Days: Homeschool families are invited to join educators at the Ned Smith Center for a guided workshop, craft, or walk! Each month from September to March will bring a new opportunity for learning and creativity with topics ranging from Spring wildflowers to Fall trees.
✍️RICKETT’S GLEN STATE PARK (Benton):
Homeschool Days: All events are free and STEM related topics – these events are split by grade level – K-2; 3-6; 7-12.
✍️MONTOUR PRESERVE (Danville):
The Preserve is a wonderful resource in our area as part of MARC (Montour Area Recreation Commission), there are often educational programs happening, such as their annual Maple Sugaring, as well as areas to explore as part of learning in nature.
✍️LEWISBURG CHILDREN’S MUSEUM:
Offering many educational opportunities for a variety of ages and interests, including several events specifically geared towards homeschooling.
Learn More
✍️CAMP SUSQUE (Trout Run)
Throughout the year, Camp Susque offers three different types of educational opportunities: Year-Long Classes, Multi-Day Classes, and Single-Day Programs. All of these programs are designed to enrich and supplement content being taught at home or in school.
Homeschooling provides a ton of opportunities to learn on the go and experience local educational locales!
Even in your own backyard, learning can happen anywhere!
*Local* Support Groups
✍️Common Ground Homeschoolers of Bloomsburg, Danville, Lewisburg, & Berwick
A private Facebook group: “Coordinate and share the journey of homeschooling in the Bloomsburg, Danville, Lewisburg, Berwick and surrounding areas of Pennsylvania. Welcoming of all ages, styles, experience, secularism and faith.”
Contact: Carlyn McKee
✍️Homeschool Inspirational Support (HIS)
Provides resources for homeschoolers, particularly in PA. Sponsored by Dr. Patti Stoudt, Homeschool Evaluator, based in Bloomsburg
✍️SHEEP Homeschool Coop
“A faith based homeschool co-op based in the Columbia and Montour counties. We strive to honor God with how to educate our children. SHEEP exists to enrich our children’s learning, relationships and life experiences.”
Contact: Kali Berleth
✍️Homeschooling in Danville (and Surrounding Areas)
A private Facebook Group: “A group for parents who reside near Danville, PA and looking for a community of others homeschooling their littles! Geared at ages preschool through elementary but all are welcome!”
✍️Hope Cottage: Charlotte Mason Style Coop & Courses (Watsontown & Surrounding Areas)
“Hope Cottage is not a school, but a homeschool support group that meets 1 day per week for courses and 1 day per month for a nature study coop. Instruction is provided in a classroom-style environment to offer structure and friendships with parents providing guided lessons throughout the week.”
✍️CHEF (Christian Home Educators’ Fellowship) Coop, Lycoming County
✍️CHEF (Christian Home Educators’ Fellowship) Coop, Union/Northumberland Counties
The purpose of CHEF of the Susquehanna Valley is to provide information, inspiration, and support to homeschool families. We have a wide range of opportunities including co-op and other classes, field trips, social activities, and physical activities.
Contact: Lisa Snyder or Chris Mast
✍️The Susquehanna Valley Homeschoolers Public Forum Page
A public page with the goal of providing useful information, questions, and answers, and additional helpful information pertaining to homeschooling in the Susquehanna Valley.
Pennsylvania Homeschool Support
A private Facebook group for parents of children ages 5+ who are current Pennsylvania homeschoolers, and those who are preparing to file an affidavit or private tutor letter to homeschool in PA.
*Local* Homeschooling Moms’ Insights
Other Resources
✏️CHAP (Christian Homeschool Association of Pennsylvania)
Quick Start Guide
Homeschooling Resource Guide
✏️Pennsylvania Homeschooling
Facebook group for evaluators, tutors, homeschooling educators, and even those who are still considering homeschooling.
✏️The Homeschool Quest
Free and affordable resources and printables!
✏️HDSLA
A national organization that provides legal protection, one-on-one homeschool coaching, and practical resources for homeschooling.