Guest Author - Meg Grooms

Welcome to the last part of “Combating Homeschool Stereotypes.” Here is your recap:

1.Homeschooled students aren't properly socialized.
2.Homeschooling parents are fundamentalist religious zealots.
3.Homeschooling is reactionary and losing steam.
4.Homeschooling is expensive.
5.One parent must stay-at-home.
6.Parents need teacher certification to properly educate their children.
7.“Special needs” kids need school services.


8.Homeschooled children cannot attend university or college.
Nothing is further from the truth. The truth is that many colleges and universities welcome homeschoolers with open arms. As with any new adult, adjustment to living on their own comes with it's set of problems, but these are not exclusive to homeschooled children. Institutions of higher education have documented that homeschooled children are more likely to do well in college and finish with a degree because they are already independent learners. Homeschooled children are less likely to fall into the dangerous trap of peer pressure and are more dedicated to studying and earning good grades. These types of students reflect well on a school, thus they are welcomed.

Each institution will have it's own method for evaluating and accepting homeschoolers, but most want to see the same thing. You will need to present your portfolio with volunteer information (most states require that you keep a portfolio), transcript with Carnegie hours (keep track of your hours and subjects of study once you enter ninth grade), a completed application with essay and a personal interview.

If you would like more information on preparing a portfolio please read The Ins and Outs of A Homeschool Portfolio. You can Google “Carnegie hour” to learn how to calculate and track those. Keep meticulous records.

If your child decides college isn't for them, don't fret. Homeschooled children are often self-directed and ready to jump right into the workforce. Allow them that time to explore other options such as working, starting a business, apprenticeship or traveling. Perhaps in a few years they will be ready for college life, but if not there isn't a lot you can do since they are legal adults.

I hope this series of articles has shed some light on homeschool stereotypes for both homeschoolers and non-homeschoolers alike. With so much in the world to worry and argue about there is no need to argue about something so simple as educating your own child. Homeschoolers, remember that no one else can dictate how you educate your child aside from your state laws. Know your laws, follow your laws and hold your head high knowing you are doing what is best for your children.