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Volume 10, Issue 2

Why Support Groups?

Grandparents:Support or Sandbags?

Co-Ops:A Group Effort

HEAV:The UltimateSupport Group

The Lord:Your First and Best Support

ConventionInfo INSIDE!

THE VIRGINIA HOME EDUCATOR l 3

contents

9 Day at the Capital

12 Why Support Groups, Jeanne K. Ryan

14 Co-ops: A Group Effort, Joy Hayden

16 The Lord: Your First and Best Support

17 HEAV: The Ultimate Support GroupConfessions of Late-ComerMary Kay Smith

18 Grandparents: Support or Sandbag?Dr. Joel Orr

20 Finding Support inExtracurricular Activities

4 From the Editor, Mary Kay Smith

5 Letters

6 Virginia Kids Did It!

7 From the Executive Director’s Desk, Yvonne Bunn

8 Freedom Watch

24 Coming to Virginia

26 Where Can I Find…?

26 In the Next Issue

26 Classified Ads

features

departments

HEAV Board of DirectorsAnne Miller | President/Executive Editor Williamsburg | [email protected] Linder | Vice President | [email protected] Bentley | Secretary | [email protected] Musick | Treasurer | [email protected] Boyer | [email protected] Ryan | [email protected]

Advisory BoardFlorence Feldman | Convention DirectorVirginia Beach | [email protected] Linder | [email protected]

Executive DirectorYvonne Bunn | ex officio Board MemberMurfreesboro | [email protected]

Director of Government AffairsJoe Guarino | [email protected]

Office StaffJoe Guarino | General [email protected]

Angela [email protected]

Amy Pascale | Special Projects [email protected]

Kitty Hepler | Special Convention ProjectsFaith Spencer | Office Staff

Publications StaffMichael Grice | Update EditorWanda Hayes | Update [email protected]

Mary Kay Smith | Magazine [email protected]

Dr. Joel Orr | Associate [email protected]

N’omi Orr | Associate EditorKati Grow | Web EditorLuanne Goldrich | [email protected]

George Bunn | Advertising [email protected]

Ideas in Marketing, LLC | Design & [email protected]

Please pray for us!Send address changes to: Home Educators Association of Virginia, 2248-G Dabney Road, Richmond, Virginia 23230-0745; Fax: 804-278-9202; E-mail: [email protected];Phone: 804-278-9200. For fastest service, send your former and new addresses. www.heav.org

Invite afriend to theconvention!

4 l THE VIRGINIA HOME EDUCATOR

Index toAdvertisers

The purpose of The Virginia Home Educator isto provide a forum for the discussion of Virginiahomeschool issues. The views expressed in thismagazine do not necessarily reflect those of HomeEducators Association of Virginia.

The Virginia Home Educator is sent quarterlyto Virginia’s homeschooling families withoutcharge. To receive a free subscription, sign up atwww.heav.org.

To inquire about advertising or submitting anarticle, please contact HEAV at PO Box 6745,

Richmond, Virginia 23230-0745; or e-mail us [email protected]. HEAV reserves the right torefuse any submission deemed inappropriate forour publication.

Permission is granted to reprint any news itemsfrom this magazine, providing proper credit isgiven; all other material is copyrighted. Forreprint permission, please contact the editor [email protected].

© 2004 Home Educators Association of Virginia

Submission Deadlines:Summer 2004—June 15 • Fall 2004—September 15 • Winter 2005—December 15 • Spring 2005—March 1

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On the CoverRuth Anne Miller (22) received her master’sdegree in business administration from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland, onNovember 29, 2003. Ruth is the always-home-schooled-even-through-college daughter ofJeff and Anne Miller.T his morning I sat by my kitchen window to

observe my backyard wildlife habitat in action.I watched fascinated as one bird after another

zoomed in for breakfast…juncos, finches, starlings,doves, blue jays, redwing blackbirds. A fat red-belliedwoodpecker flew to one suet feeder while starlings squabbled at another. Finches tookadvantage of the fighting to dart around and steal dropped seeds, but Mrs. Cardinal, withher orange lipstick and perfect coiffure, waited in the pear tree for her turn, like the proper lady she is. It’s no wonder God blessed the birds when He created them—theyprovide such diversion!

Suddenly a shadow flew over and all the birds darted into the Leylands. Thirty ormore birds just disappeared, leaving nothing for the predator. I thought—this is habitatat work! This is why a habitat not only has to provide food, water, and a place to raiseyoung, but also cover—a place of safety. And the interesting thing is when birds go tothat place of safety, all differences of habit, preferences of style, and old squabbles disap-pear. They huddle together with a common purpose.

I think support groups are one of the types of cover for homeschoolers. As families we choose different curricula, approach education in unique ways, have different-style homes and clothing, worship in various churches…but put us in a supportgroup and we lay those differences aside to help one another, encourage one another, andpray for one another.

In this issue we discuss why we need support groups, the types available, and how tofind one that’s right for you. Sometimes we just need information or people to shareresources with. But other times we struggle with difficult issues in our home or school-ing and need someone to remind us that, no matter what long-term goals any of us have,it’s really just one step at a time.

In The Lord of the Rings story, where would Frodo have been without Sam? Sam con-sistently provided cover for Frodo—sometimes literally pulling him away from danger,and other times just encouraging him. As he tells Frodo when they’re exhausted near theend of their long quest, “We have to get down there, there’s nothing for it. Let’s justmake it down the next hill for starters.”

We all need that kind of support person or group—someone who will look us in theeye when we’re thinking of giving up and say as Sam did: “Don’t you let go. Please don’tlet go…Reach!”

How about you? Is there cover in your homeschool habitat—or are you easy preyfor the shadows? !

FROM THE EDITORMary Kay Smith


LETTERS DAY AT THE CAPITOL

Thanks to everyone for the great “Day at the Capitol.” All ofmy family thought it was very worthwhile even though we hadtaken the Capitol tour and seen the House of Delegates before.The personal testimonies/speeches of the delegates, senators,and assistants was very helpful. The mock bill was invaluable andthe scavenger hunt was a good learning tool.

I want to encourage anyone who has not yet attendedHEAV’s “Day at the Capitol” to plan to do so next year. At $1per child, there is little to equal the value received educating thechildren about our state government and the issues at stake.

Gratefully, Sue Cameron

We had a wonderful time, thank you! We learned a lot fromeach of the speakers as well as our tour guide at the Capitol. Ourtrip is also helping our boys earn a badge from their RoyalRanger group! Thank you for the incredible planning you alldid on this one. The “Capitol Classroom” was excellent and thebinders we created will be great learning tools for all of us foryears to come.

Blessings, Rose Schulz

THANKS TO HEAVThanks so much for all you do to support home educators in

Virginia. I also appreciate your thoughtful email updates, partic-ularly regarding legislation and how members may participate inour democratic process.

Sincerely in Christ, Carol Erwin

HEAV GRADUATIONDear HEAV Members & Friends,

It has been my privilege and joy to coordinate the HEAVgraduation ceremonies for the last five years. I have met so manywonderful families, and been immeasurably blessed by theirappreciation for the work of putting together a statewide grad-uation ceremony.

I started in April of 1999, with eight weeks left before grad-uation. My predecessor passed along her “brain” on diskettes,in a notebook, and through a few phone calls. I followed herlead, and after we nursed an 18-month-old son through anaggressive, life-threatening staph infection, the Lord pulledtogether a wonderful ceremony that first year, with me catchingmy breath by July!

The next year graduation really felt like my “baby,” and Iwas excited to have more than eight weeks to prepare! Throughthe processes of remodeling a house, moving, and giving birthto our fifth child, my husband, York, and our children learnedto take phone messages pre-registering graduates, and we allsorted and stuffed 2500 announcements with the help of ourfriends, Tony and Nancy Nix, and their family, at our kitchentable. At the last minute I invited that unsuspecting friend,Nancy, to go with me to convention, where we hauled a doublestroller through the graduation frenzy with our two three-

month old infants sporting mortarboards and tassels.Over the next three years the Lord continued to weave Tony

and Nancy Nix and their children into graduation. For the Classof 2002, through mold remediation and the birth of our sixthchild on 9/11/01, Nancy was fully onboard—she knew enoughto be both supportive and tremendously helpful! Our graduateshonored the memory of those lost in the 9/11 attacks withcommemorative red, white, and blue tassels, and gave specificgifts to two graduates who each lost a family member on thathorrible day.

In 2003, the Nixes took a break from the pre-conventionwork while my family moved again, lost our home to mold,bought a house, moved again, and walked with the Lordthrough the healing of our six-year-old son from adrenal cancer.The Class of 2003 worked with our office staff more than everbefore, as the office picked up the slack that neither Nancy nor Icould carry. We arrived in the newly renovated RichmondCenter with no idea that Nancy would jump into the onsite workof graduation at the last minute, but her presence proved invalu-able and it was wonderful to have her back.

Every single year, in addition to my work, dozens of volun-teers, hours of office work, musicians, speakers, parents, and fel-low convention coordinators contributed to the success of a clas-sic, God-honoring graduation ceremony. Be sure that no part ofthe HEAV convention comes off without the hand of Godorchestrating every step!

(continued on page 25)


VIRGINIA KIDS DID IT!

Congratulations to The Greater Roanoke Home Educators(GRHE) MATHCOUNTS team who won first place inFebruary at their regional competition. They dedicated theirSaturday mornings to math training under the tutelage of Mr.Ron Bessette (aided by his wife, Polly) from the beginning ofOctober to the beginning of February. The winning team ofDaniel Bessette, Daria Olinger, Willie Deutsch, and PhillipBenzinger went on to Richmond in March to compete againstthe other regional winners in the state.

Five schools in the Roanoke region were involved in thisyear’s competition. Each school sponsors a team of four stu-dents and can have up to four additional “mathletes” as alter-nates. Other “mathletes” on the GRHE team were JacksonEldridge and Austin Deutsch.

Congratulations to the following winners of the TidewaterHomeshool Spelling Bee:

BEGINNING DIVISION, FROM FIRST TO FOURTH PLACE: Ashton Smith-Suffolk, Teresa Totheroh-VA Beach, Rebecca Willett-VA Beach, Stephanie Wasko-VA Beach

INTERMEDIATE DIVISION, FROM FIRST TO FOURTH PLACE:Jessica Williams-VA Beach, Brittannie Hedrick-Yorktown,Jimmy Whittemore-Chesapeake, Mary Cumbie-Yorktown.

ADVANCED DIVISION, FROM FIRST TO FOURTH PLACE: Billy Cumbie-Yorktown, Lindsey Brinkman-Chesapeake,Heather Bunch-VA Beach, Marc Polk-VA Beach

OVERALL WINNERS OF THE BEE (who competed in the Regional Homeschool Spelling Bee in Richmond):Brittannie Hedrick-Champion Speller, andJessica Williams-Runner-up.

Congratulations to Stephen Dronfield (Herndon), whowon first place at the Arlington VFW Post for his essay on“My Dream for America,” and then went on to win first placeat the regional contest as well!

To find out about the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ annualpatriotic essay and art competitions, go to www.vfw.org

Congratulations to The Red Planet Realtors of FairfaxStation, a team of 10 kids ages 10-13, who entered the FIRST LEGO League Competition sponsored by VirginiaTech in Blacksburg. Under Coach Scott Hough, the team

took first place at theNorthern Virginia region-als in November, andthen went on to place firstagain (out of 52 teams) atthe state tournament in

Blacksburg in February! They were invited to compete in theinternational tournament in Atlanta, Georgia, in April—againstwinners from 30 states across the nation, and more than 20other countries.

The challenge this year was “Mission to Mars.” Teams were judged, on robot design, robot performance, research,presentation, and teamwork.

To learn more about the First LEGO League organization,go to www.firstlegoleague.org.

Congratulations to MarsMallows, a team of homeschoolersfrom Mechanicsville, who also undertook the FIRST LEGORobotics mission to Mars, researching the prospect of robots andhumans living and working on the “Red Planet.” TheMarsMallows presented their findings on the technologies neededto transport Mars rock samples to Earth.

The MarsMallows teamwon first place in robot per-formance, technical design,and overall performance inDivision I at their regionaltournament in Richmond inNovember, advancing themto the state tournament! Atthe state tournament, they finished 6th overall in their division.Caleb Adams, Alayna Adams, Adam Pomfrey, DanielLong, Anna Lockwood, and Thomas Lockwood made upthe MarsMallows team, coached by John and Jean Lockwood.

The MAV Mavericks of LEAH (Loving Education AtHome) team from Blacksburg and Christiansburg, performed wellat both regional and state FIRST LEGO™ League competitionstoo! The team spent eight weeks researching, designing, con-structing, programming, testing, adapting, and revising a LEGOrobot to meet this year’s regional and state FLL Challenge.

At the state competition the team earned a 2nd-placeDirectors Award, acknowledging their overall excellent stand-ing in robot performance, technical design, research, andteamwork. At the Montgomery County Regional competition,the team earned a 1st-place Research Award for their proposalof a “space elevator” to help spacecraft return to Earth fromMars. A space elevatorclimbs an ultra-strongcable into space suspendedby a counterweight inorbit instead of using con-ventional chemical rock-ets. The team also earned a2nd-place Technical DesignAward at the state compe-tition, and a special-recog-nition Judges Award at theregional event.

(begining with the left side, back row) Joshua Washechek, Zachary Causey, Mariekevan der Vaart, Kay Washechek, Nathanial Hough, Jessie Kusuma, Felix van derVaart, Bryson Hough, Benjamin Wittig, and Asa Kusuma.

(back row) Coach Peter Lo, Coach Eric Brown,Drake Harless, Claire Lo, Kayla Harless,Rebecca Thompson, and Mentor MomHeather Brown (front row) Nichole Mann,Ian Walsh, Zachary Brown, Ian Brown, andKenneth Lo


I’ve never been part of any-thing quite like homeschool-ing. Homeschoolers have a

passion for their families unlikeanything I’ve ever seen. And theyshare that enthusiasm as a way ofsupporting one another.

When I began homeschooling18 years ago, I banded with a small group of like-mindedfriends. We had little, if any, teaching experience, but wehad something else—a burning desire to take responsibil-ity for educating and training our children. We also hadthe support of our husbands who thought we could fig-ure out what to do!

Within a few months we decided the best way to sharewhat we were learning was to meet together on a regularbasis. Without fully realizing what was developing, westarted a support group. From a small group meeting inmy living room, we quickly mushroomed into a large,fully active group of enthusiastic moms learning andgrowing with our children.

As group leader (president seemed too formal a titlefor the main job—hours of talking on the phone), I madean immediate connection with HEAV. I called to find outwhat the law said about homeschooling. During that firstphone call I heard about a state convention. From there,my adventure with HEAV began, and I’ve been to anHEAV convention every year since. As a teaching parentand a support-group leader, I grew each time I attended.

Having been a support-group leader, I knew the valueof a like-minded, close-knit group. HEAV also recognizesthe value of local support groups. We strongly encourageparents to be involved in a local support group wherefamilies participate in activities that supplement theirinstruction and develop their children’s interests. Groupsalso share important local and statewide information. If you would like to know the groups in your area or toadd your group, go to HEAV’s support-group list atwww.heav.org.

HEAV also offers a different type of support for home-schoolers. We work full-time, five days a week, with full-and part-time staff as well as volunteers, to help andencourage parents who homeschool. We protect yourrights to homeschool through legislative initiatives andcontact with state and federal representatives. We provideinformation and advice to homeschooling parents byphone, e-mail, and our website. We educate the generalpublic, educators, and elected officials through personalcontacts, the media, lectures, seminars, workshops, conven-tions, and our magazine. We make known the benefits ofhome education and the constitutional right of parents toeducate their own children. We assist homeschool support

groups by providing information, resources, and leadershipworkshops and training seminars. We support in ways localsupport groups are not able to do.

Most of our support is behind the scenes, but our mostvisible support for parents and support-group leaders is our yearly convention (June 10-12, 2004, at the Richmond Convention Center). This year, we have the most amazing line-up of speakers that we’ve everhad! The FunnyMoms will be back, along with the DentonBrothers’ Children’s Program, and FREE How-to-Beginworkshops on Thursday, June 10. We’ll have graduationwith Mike Farris giving the commencement address, aSupport Group Leader Luncheon, a special Teen Track, aSingle Parents’ Luncheon, and of course, a gigantic ExhibitHall, and the ever-popular Used-Curriculum Sale.

All of this is in one location to support and encourageyou as you seek to train and educate your children at home!This is also a perfect opportunity to reach out to a mom (ordad) who is struggling or who is undecided about home-shooling—invite them to the convention where they’ll getan infusion of vision: it could be just what they needed!Scholarships are available so every parent can attend—simply contact our office. We hope to see you there! !

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S DESKYvonne Bunn


FREEDOM WATCH

More than 120 parents and children joined togetherto learn how their government passes bills when they metfor HEAV’s Day at the Capitol, Friday, February 6.Highlighting the event was a special guest appearance byDelegate Rob Bell of Charlottesville, the patron andchampion of HB 675, a bill that would allow parents witha high school diploma to educate their children at homeunder Option 1 of the homeschool statute.

Senator Russ Potts of Winchester shared how herecently discovered that he and homeschoolers have moreground in common than he realized. Formerly an ardentopponent of homeschooling until very recently, SenatorPotts confessed his initial misgivings and proudly statedthat he now supports our homeschooling efforts.

Democratic Senator Phil Puckett of Tazewell addressedour group from his heart. He explained that he is a pro-lifeChristian who absolutely believes in a parent’s right tochoose homeschooling if that is what they think best fortheir child. Senator Puckett has co-patroned all of our billsfor the last two years.

One of the highlights of the day came when most of the attendees were able to visit the gallery of the House of Delegates and witness their Morning Hour.Homeschoolers packed the upper seating area as DelegateBell introduced them. Even though the opponent of ourbill, Delegate Dillard, sat only a few feet from him,Delegate Bell graciously pointed out that it was DelegateDillard who–20 years ago–patroned the bill allowinghomeschoolers to educate their children at home legally.

HEAV’s Annual Day at the Capitol

Last year HEAV worked with the General Assembly topass a bill giving home-educating parents the option toteach their own children the behind-the-wheel portion ofdriver education. When the bill became law on July 1,2003, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) pru-dently set up an administrative procedure assuring prop-er authorization of parents to teach their own children.Unfortunately, they required home educators to acquire“approval” for their homeschool from their local schoolsuperintendent in order to receive this authorization.

HEAV’s director of government affairs, Joe Guarino,pointed out to the DMV that they do not have the statu-tory authority to require this approval. Also, no proce-dure is in place for local superintendents to grant thisapproval. After two rounds of intense letters from HEAV,Home School Legal Defense Association, and the DMV,the DMV commissioner agreed to have his staff reviewthe matter with the assistance of the Office of theAttorney General (AG). Guarino asked the original bill’ssponsor, Delegate Glenn Oder, to seek an informal AGopinion on this matter. Home educators have never hadto seek approval for their homeschool, and we would liketo keep it this way.

In early March, Guarino orchestrated a meetingbetween the DMV commissioner and his staff, two deputyattorney generals, Delegate Oder, and three senators.Suddenly, late in the day before the meeting, an attorneywith the AG produced a memo with guidelines for theDMV, which favored homeschoolers. HEAV is now wait-ing to review DMV’s revised forms for the authorizationprocess.

Getting Your Homeschool“Approved” for DMV

The 2004 General Assembly passed HB 675, whichwould raise homeschooling parents with a high schooldiploma to the same oversight as homeschooling parentswith a college degree. Unfortunately, Governor Warnerdid not agree with the General Assembly and amendedthe bill. During the Reconvened Session on April 21,however, the House of Delegates rejected his amend-ments 62-37. The original bill is now back before thegovernor. He will have 30 days from the ReconvenedSession to dispose of the bill. He may sign it, veto it, ordo nothing in which case it automatically becomes law.

High School Diploma BillAwaiting Governor’s Action

“Education is the knowledge of how to usethe whole of oneself. Many men use but oneor two faculties out of the score with whichthey are endowed. A man is educated whoknows how to make a tool of every faculty–how to open it, how to keep it sharp, andhow to apply it to all practical purposes.”

Henry Ward Beecher


DAY AT THE CAPITOL

(right) Senator Russ Potts.(below) HEAV Executive Director Yvonne Bunn.

(above) Senator Phil Puckett addresses the Day at the Capital group.

(left) HEAV Director of Government Affairs and Lobbyist Joe Guarinoand the O’Dorisio familyfrom Hampton.

(right) HB 675 patron and championDelegate Rob Bell.


Good news for homeschoolers who want to receiveNational Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) schol-arships and participate in college sports! Homeschoolershave finally been recognized as high school graduates bythe NCAA. Homeschool students no longer have to gothrough the “waiver process” (being considereddropouts), but can now register in the same manner astraditionally schooled graduates.

Over the last several years, homeschoolers havebegun to be recognized by athletics groups. Manyhomeschoolers initially had difficulties entering theNCAA, but the new policy should eliminate theseproblems.

The NCAA has eagerly worked with HSLDA toestablish some clear guidelines and procedures forhomeschooled students.

Homeschooled students must, like all students,meet the NCAA initial standards in order to be eligi-ble for scholarships at their chosen university. All stu-dent athletes must be certified by the NCAA InitialEligibility Clearinghouse as having met the initial eli-gibility requirements. Online registration can be com-pleted at www.ncaaclearinghouse.net.

When registering for either the ACT or SAT test, the student must select the Clearinghouse as one of therecipients of the test score. The Clearinghouse code is 9999.

Upon graduation, provide the Clearinghouse withthe following materials: - Transcript (including course titles, grades, units of

credits for courses, and grading scale)- Proof of graduation in the form of a diploma,

listing the graduation month and year. - A list of texts used in core courses throughout

home instruction (including title and publisher) - Proof that the homeschool was conducted in

accordance with state law, using either a copy of the state form, or a statement from the homeschool teacher.

Reprinted with permission of Home School LegalDefense Association. Copyright HSLDA 2004.

NCAA Eliminates WaiverProcess for Homeschoolers HSLDA

FREEDOM WATCH



Many of us recall the commercial that made those wordspart of the American lexicon. What we are often less comfort-able recalling is how often those words ring true in regard toour own lives and our home-education experience. For many,this is where homeschool support groups provide the helpinghand, or the encouragement to continue onward.

Homeschool support groups are as diverse as the individualswho belong to them. There are one-on-one coffee klatches,church groups, neighborhood co-ops, Internet chats, area-wideorganizations with activities and events, state and nationalorganizations, and more. The reasons for choosing supportgroups are as varied as the support groups themselves.

It is reasonable to recognize that the nature of home educa-tion can isolate mothers. Reaching out to give and receive sup-port is a practical way to insure that encouragement and fortifi-cation are available. Needs for friendship, activities, ideas, rein-forcement, emotional and spiritual underpinning are all motiva-tors in seeking support. Though there is no replacing the assur-ance and comfort that it is the Lord who gives wisdom, knowl-edge, and understanding (see Daniel 1:17), He has also gener-ously given us companions for this great adventure known ashomeschooling.

As noted by J. Michael Smith, president of Home SchoolLegal Defense, “The needs parents have for encouragement andfellowship will continue to be a big part of the reason they joinsupport groups. Many homeschooling parents, especially thosenew to homeschooling, seek companionship from others whohave embarked on the same journey.” 1

Michael Farris, founding president of Patrick Henry Collegeand chairman of Home School Legal Defense, points out thatDr. McDowell, in her study on family-stress related to home-schooling, states that those who receive support from like-minded people are positively affected—able to adjust to andcope with stress, crises, and change. Clearly such support in thehomeschooling community through support groups and otheractivities is fundamentally important. 2,3

But what kind of support groups work best? It depends on you!

ACTIVITY-ORIENTED GROUPS Activity-oriented parents gravitate toward local groups that

are well-organized and generally parent-led.Local and regional groups formally or informally offer meet-ings, park days, play groups, field trips, co-ops, testing, clubs,

Why Support Groups? Jeannie K. Ryan

“HELP! I’ve fallen and I can’t get up”

An Easy Transition from Home Schooling

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS:JUNIOR YEAR:

- Received 5’s on A.P. Government and A.P. English

SENIOR YEAR: - Scored 800 in verbal and 760 in math on his SAT’s - Received an ACT score of 32, placing him in the 99th

percentile- Last summer he scored highest grades (A’s) in 300-

level psychology classes at Mary Washington College- Member of the National Honor Society- 2003 Valedictorian with GPA of 4.215

EXTRACURRICULAR ACHIEVEMENTS:-Member of FUMA’s cadet-run Honor Council-Member of this year’s VISFA Division III State Championship Prep Football Team

-Editor of the Academy newspaper, The Sabre-Chosen as a member of the VA All-State Choir

COLLEGE ATTENDING IN FALL 2003:-Entering University of VA as a sophomore-Field of Study: Child Psychology

Paul Tiffany, FUMA Class of 2003

Fork Union Military AcademyChristian Values. Leadership Skills. Teamwork.

Academic Excellence. Pride. Tradition.

800-GO-2-FUMA or www.forkunion.com


performing arts, 4-H, Scouts, spelling bees, debates, used-book sales, end-of-year recognitions, and so on. One exampleof such a group is Prince William County’s H.O.P.E. (HomeOrganization of Parent Educators). With 300 families on theirmailing list, they facilitate many events such as monthly meet-ings, field trips, annual science fairs, year-end testing, and alending library.

Christian schools also sometimes offer support in the areasof art, music, sports, and even high school math and science.

Signing up on a local e-mail “bulletin board,” such as thosefound in the back of this magazine, can keep you informed ofmany activities in your area.

SPORTS PROGRAMSIn increasing numbers throughout Virginia, sports pro-

grams are being offered specifically for home-educated stu-dents. Churches establish some of these, and regionally organ-ized groups such as Spirit Homeschool Athletics nearRichmond, offer others. Offering a variety of sporting oppor-tunities, Spirit’s players are members of the Virginia ChristianAthletic Association Conference in both Jr. Varsity and VarsitySports. This membership enables their teams to participate ininter-scholastic competitive sports with private and Christianschools. J.B. Bailey, the facilitator of the group, says they alsowork with younger students developing preparatory skills. Ifthey do not offer the sport you are interested in, they act as aclearinghouse to let you know of other people in the area withthe same interests.

Cities, counties, and local YMCA’s also offer various teamand individual sport opportunities. Though these groups aregenerally not exclusively for home educators, they are resourcesof which many take advantage.

RESOURCE CENTERSCommunity or distinctive homeschooling resource centers are

increasingly available to provide practical support. Some are oper-ated in a spare room in someone’s home; others, like HarvesterTeaching Services in Springfield, are quite extensive. Harvester

members have access to a vast collection of items and are allowedto check out some materials for extended periods of time.

MOMS’ SUPPORT GROUPSSome support groups are oriented more toward moms and

their needs. One such group is Reston Homeschool Group I,which has birthed three other Reston groups. The moms meetonce a month to share ideas, concerns, questions, and prayerrequests. Membership is limited to 25 families so that the momsreally can get to know and trust each other. While the group plansco-op activities and field trips, those are not their main focus.

ONE-ON-ONE SUPPORTThere are times and seasons when mothers may feel their daily

life is already so consumed that the effort to add another group orevent seems overwhelming. One-on-one times with anothermother, in person or through the Internet, can be a help and com-fort. We can reach out and interact with other mothers and nothave to leave home, make extensive plans, or interfere with thebaby’s nap. As one young woman put it, “I don’t even have to putmakeup on to chat online.”

Some women who feel inundated with their responsibilitiesmay benefit from a mentor. An older, more experienced homeeducator can be a rich source of friendship, inspiration, and solace.These relationships may also bring specific guidance in problemareas as well as ideas for practical help. Congregations and localsupport-group meetings often provide great opportunities formaking that acquaintance who has the word, the resource, or thewisdom for such a need.

STATE ORGANIZATIONSState organizations such as HEAV, provide great practical

support for all homeschooling parents. Among their variedservices to Virginia’s homeschooling community is the annualconvention. Inspirational and practical workshops are coupledwith an extensive curriculum hall, providing a wonderfulresource of people and materials. Their manual, magazine, andother materials are full of practical help for everyone, from thenovice home-educating family to the veteran. !

For an extensive list of Virginia local support groups andcontacts, visit www.heav.org and click on “Support.”

1. Home School Heartbeat, Volume 45, Program 21, June 9, 2003.

2. Home School Heartbeat, Volume 23, Program 19, August 24, 2000.

3. The Home Education Movement in Context, Practice, and Theory by Susan A. McDowell, Ed.D. and Brian D. Ray, Ph.D., Editors.

Jeannie K. Ryan is a wife and homeschooling mother of six. Sheworks from her home as a freelance writer, painter, and graphicartist.

“Homeschoolers who receive support from like minded people are positively affected—able to adjust to and copewith stress, crises, and change.”


When my children think of homeschooling, theyimmediately identify it with their co-op, TNT. Tothem TNT is their “school.”

BENEFITS: “WHY HAVE A CO-OP?”A co-op fills a variety of needs. For parents it provides support,

encouragement, and relationships. For children it provides groupinteraction, exposure to different teaching styles, and a change inthe daily routine. Co-ops lend themselves to having guest speakers,organizing field trips, offering testing services, and teaching someschool protocol. Young students love having show-n-tell, bringingtheir lunchboxes, having backpacks, and being a line leader!

An area of our personal weakness might be an area ofstrength for another mom. Some moms are great at crafts, others at storytelling. Some organize field trips; others run the President’s Physical Fitness test. A mom who loves to singand perform helps the students put on a musical or play.Grandparents teach woodworking. An uncle who is an amateurgeologist, shares his rock collection. Our families have includ-ed doctors, lawyers, analysts, teachers, electricians, veterinari-ans, pastors, and contractors, and together we have met astro-nauts, Olympic champions, and missionaries.

You may be convinced that co-ops are great, but wonder:What is involved in starting one of your own?

PURPOSE: “WHAT WILL OUR CO-OP DO?”You must first identify the purpose of your co-op. This is

imperative or you will lose your way. You must know what youare trying to accomplish. Decide if you will focus on academicsor extracurricular activities. For example, a writer’s co-op wouldfocus on improving a child’s writing. You would decide if therewould be homework and if the course fulfills the language artsrequirements of your school year.

Perhaps you want a co-op that provides support for motherswhere moms can share curricula, teaching ideas, and prayer requests.

My group, TNT, has a dual focus. One half of each sessionis spent on an academic unit study, and the other half focuseson character-building. Moms may find support in our group,but that is not our focus.

Choose your focus and write up a mission statement.Whenever you change your co-op’s focus, you are likely to losemembers. If they have joined with the expectation of learningcore subjects, and you then shift to extracurricular activities,you will alienate your membership.

It is important to view the co-op as part of your homeschooleducation. You are not “missing a day of school” if you set asidetime to participate in co-op activities. You might not do work-books or textbooks that day, but your children are still receivingan education in something worthwhile.

Co-ops: a Group Effort Joy Hayden


MEMBERSHIP: “WHO WILL BE IN THE CO-OP?”Having like-minded families is the key to achieving the

goals of your co-op. So make sure each family understandswhat the co-op is trying to accomplish. A “statement of faith”can be useful to lay the foundation of common beliefs and val-ues of your co-op members.

Will you have an open membership where people can dropin any time, or a closed membership where teaching assign-ments are scheduled and classes are formed for the schoolyear? Will moms be expected to stay each week and con-tribute, or will they be assigned specific dates to work?

How will you find your membership? By word of mouth?Personal recommendations? Through your church? Viahomeschool newsletters?

Once you have answers to the above—the “why,” the“what,” and the “who”—you’re ready to ask “HOW?”

MEETING OBJECTIVESYou must determine how often your co-op will meet. If

you are relying on a co-op to supplement or even teach yourcore subjects, then the co-op should have regularly scheduledclasses that meet frequently, i.e., weekly. A co-op designed to provide extracurricular activities or field trips may onlyneed to meet once a month.

If you are project-oriented, you may want to meet at thebeginning of the month to learn about your topic and receiveinstructions for a project. Then you could meet again in themiddle of the month to display and share what you’velearned. Maybe your co-op will be strictly social and providea change of pace from the normal routine.

Ask yourself, “How often do we need to meet in order toaccomplish that goal?” If you decide on “once a month” or“three times a year,” try to be specific. For example, make itthe first Friday or the last Tuesday of each month. Membersneed to be able to reserve time on their schedule or atten-dance will be poor.

If your co-op is academically oriented, will you use a cho-sen curriculum? For the academic portion of our TNT day weidentify the subject of the unit study, but give the teachers freereign to pull together their own lesson plans. However, forthe character portion of our day, we use a specific character-based curriculum.

ORGANIZATION:In a co-op, every person participates. This is very important.

The load should be shared equally. Additional responsibilities ofthe leadership will depend on the degree of organization you aretrying to achieve. We began with one person as the main pointof contact, but as the co-op grew, we established a committee tohandle the administrative responsibilities. (We also began charg-ing a membership fee to cover our administrative costs.)

The size of the co-op will determine many things, includingmembership responsibilities. TNT started with seven familiesand nine children. Each week we had one mom teach, one mom

help, and one serve in the nursery. We scheduled a rotation inwhich every mom served in some capacity every other week.

Each year, as we added families to the group, the delegationof responsibilities changed. Eventually we evolved to the pointwhere each mom serves five weeks out of thirty, and we keepour membership at just under one hundred students.

You can also co-op with just one other mom and have itwork very well. For several years, my girlfriend and I wouldreserve the last week of each month to do a unit study. Our twofamilies would meet two or three times that week. By the endof the year, we had done eight or nine unit studies and theywere usually the highlights of the school year.

Size will also dictate where your co-op meets. Obviously alarge co-op cannot meet in someone’s home. Libraries, church-es, or community centers may be possible alternatives. Smallerco-ops may want to rotate among members’ houses.

The success of a co-op is not measured in the size of itsmembership. The co-op only needs to be large enough toaccomplish its purpose.

Co-ops can be invaluable to the homeschooler, but it canbe difficult to locate one that meets your particular need.Perhaps this article will encourage and motivate you to start aco-op of your own—it’s very likely someone else is hoping tojoin a co-op just like yours! Will you be willing to get the ball rolling? !


Morning, noon, and night is not toomuch. You can have your private timewith the Lord in the morning; read,study, or memorize Scripture in yourschool time or at the lunch table; andhave family Bible reading in the eveningat the table or before bed with Dad. Itis in His written revelation to us that wemeet the Lord and He speaks to you.

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

That the man of God may be perfect,thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” (II Timothy 3:16-17)

Fill your life with good Christian music.Music is a powerful influence in our

lives. Both the words and the style of theold hymns of the faith carry a messagethat honors the Lord and reminds you ofHim and His attributes. Although con-stant background music can be distract-ing and lose its impact, there are manytimes during the day that listening to orsinging Christian songs can turn yourthoughts to the Lord. You might want tolead your children in a chorus or hymneach time you read from God's Word.

“Let the word of Christ dwell in yourichly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” (Colossians 3:16)

Talk to the Lord frequently through-out the day.

It might be hard to visualize the Lordbeside you all day long, but if youengage in conversational prayer withHim throughout the day, you will bereminded of, and comforted by, Hispresence. !

Copyright 2003 by The Teaching Home,www.TeachingHome.com. Reprintedby permission.

Others may let you down or failto fulfill your needs, but notGod. Go to Him first for the

support you need.

“My soul, wait thou only upon God;for my expectation is from Him.

He only is my rock and my salvation:He is my defense;

I shall not be moved.”

“In God is my salvation and my glory:the rock of my strength,and my refuge, is in God.

Trust in him at all times; ye people,pour out your heart before him:

God is a refuge for us.”(Psalms 62:5-8)

“I waited patiently for the LORD;and he inclined unto me, and heardmy cry.

Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust.”(Psalms 40:1, 4a)

WHY THE LORD IS YOUR BESTSUPPORTHe Is Always There.

You don’t have to wait for next month’ssupport-group meeting or until someoneelse is available to help you. You can call onHim at any time, day or night. His invita-tions and promises to you assure that youwill never become a burden to Him.

“Come unto me, all ye that labor and areheavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

“I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” (Hebrews 13:5)

He Is All-Knowing and All-Wise.The Lord knows exactly what you are

going through and how you feel. Heknows precisely what your family needs,both now and in the future. He is willingto share this wisdom with you; all you haveto do is ask.

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask ofGod, that giveth to all men liberally,

The Lord: Your First and Best Support and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.” (James 1:5-6a)

“For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtainmercy, and find grace to help in timeof need.” (Hebrews 4:15-16)

He Is Loving and Kind.The Lord loves you and your family

with unfathomable, pure, unfailing love.

“Behold, what manner of love the Fatherhath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” (I John 3:1)

“Casting all your care upon him;for he careth for you.” (I Peter 5:7)

He will give you what is best in Histime and in His way. This is where our trustin Him must be implicit.

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him (God).” (Hebrews 11:6)

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God.” (Romans 8:28)

HOW TO AVAIL YOURSELF OF THISWONDERFUL SUPPORT

Sadly enough, we all too often fail toreceive the gracious gifts of our Lord forvarious reasons. We get into the habit oftrying to meet our own needs, forgettingto turn to the Lord. The physical worldcan seem more real to us than the unseenspiritual world. We can correct this mis-perception and find our Lord’s aid andfellowship in the following ways:

Spend time daily in reading, studying,memorizing, and meditating on God'sWord.


I have to admit it. I homeschooled one child all the way intocollege before I sent in my first membership check to HEAV.Why? Probably the main reason is that I didn’t see my need

for the organization. After all, I’m pretty independent. I read a lotand knew what curriculum I wanted to try; I was convinced ofhomeschooling before I was even pregnant with my first child, sodidn’t need encouragement on that score; and I myself had anunusual educational background and got into college with noproblems, so I wasn’t worried about that. So why join? Well, hereis what I didn’t know.

MYTH #1If I’ve joined HSLDA, I don’t need to belong to a stateorganization too.

I joined HSLDA for one practical reason: it is my securitynet. I carry my membership card in my wallet; I have the con-tact information on my fridge. If anything goes wrong withhomeschooling, I will call them immediately.

But the fact is, HSLDA deals with big issues. They aren’t setup to take hundreds of calls asking, “How do I start? Whatbooks do you recommend? Do you know of a support groupnear me?” Those are the questions and concerns for the stateorganization—in this case, HEAV.

HEAV passes out thousands of pieces of information annually,keeps Virginia homeschoolers informed of legislative issues con-cerning them, encourages support-group leaders, and runs a hugeconvention every year attended by more than 7,000 people!

You may never have a fight in court, but you probablybelong to a support group, receive weekly e-mail updates, orattend the HEAV convention from time to time. You directlybenefit from their lobbying for favorable laws. You receive thismagazine free. For all that, you have HEAV to thank. $25 a yearwould be a nice thank-you gift.

MYTH #2Virginia is such an easy state in which to homeschool.

Well, that is not exactly a myth—especially in comparison tosome other states. But did you know our homeschool freedoms areat risk every year? I didn’t. I just knew that I sent my “Intent toHomeschool” form to the two different counties I’ve lived in, andthen basically have been left alone. No social worker has come tomy door; no principal has called. When neighbors show interest,it’s always with admiration that I could do such a difficult thing.

But here is what I didn’t know. During the last half-dozenyears, various legislators have introduced the idea that home-schoolers should have to take Standards of Learning tests(SOL’s), just like the public school students, in order to gradu-ate or be admitted into a state college.

Now isn’t that ridiculous! There are plenty of other ways to

show that our kids are doing well academically. One of the mainreasons I homeschool is to have the freedom to be creative withmy curriculum and choose what to use and when to introduceeach subject. I am not trying to recreate school in my home—I’m doing a whole new thing so I certainly don’t want someoneelse interfering! Thanks to HEAV, working in cooperation withother groups, the SOL initiative is defeated each year.

Or how about just a few other important freedoms we takefor granted: HEAV is directly responsible for causing the cut-offscore for standardized achievement tests to be changed from the40th percentile to the 23rd percentile, reflecting the broadrange of average homeschoolers. They opposed and also helpeddefeat mandatory five-year-old kindergarten. They defeated daytime curfews for homeschoolers. Are those things worth $25a year? You bet!

MYTH #3It’s too much money

Sometimes $25 does seem like a lot of money. But considerthis: We spent around $200 on our son’s required behind-the-wheel driver education. Without HEAV lobbyist Joe Guarino’shard work on the Driver’s Ed bill, which allows homeschoolingparents to take on this part of the training, we would have hadto do that two more times. It will take many years of HEAV pay-ments to reach the comparative $400! With HEAV going to batfor us, who knows where the next financial benefit will comefrom! Are your other investments yielding that kind of result?

MYTH #4If I don’t do it, it will still get done.

It’s true that HEAV has existed for 21 years without you, ifyou’re not a member. In fact, at this writing, less than 10% ofVirginia’s more than 23,000 homeschooling families have joinedHEAV. But think of what they could do with your support!Additional money each year could pay for expanded office space,much-needed new computers, salary for a qualified curriculumcounselor, additional HEAV resources and seminars, and more!

You know, I joined HSLDA even though I don’t expect toever need them personally. But I know I am benefited indirect-ly, and when I read about all the things they do and the peoplethey help, I know that my money is supporting a great cause andhelping people who need it. That gives me a good feeling. It’s asimilar thing with HEAV. All homeschoolers in Virginia benefitfrom HEAV even when we don’t recognize it. HEAV really isour ultimate support group

I hope by reading this, the “light is turning on” for you as it did for me. I hope you’re feeling overcome with thankful-ness for this great organization...I hope you’re reaching for your checkbook. !

HEAV: The Ultimate Support GroupConfessions of a late-comer Mary Kay Smith


stabilizes the “earned approval” picture.The family is also where we learn the concept of duty.

While not much spoken of in America today, duty is sim-ple and powerful. It is the undifferentiated requirementsof a position or role. So, for example, I have a duty as ahusband, a son, a father, a citizen, and so on, and theydon’t depend on who I am.

“I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke andfound that life was duty. I acted, and behold, duty wasjoy.” This beautiful quotation from the Indian poetRabindranath Tagore encapsulates powerfully the valueof duty. When we do what we are supposed to do inour various life roles, we have joy. Family life is wherewe first learn duty.

Our duty toward our elders is hard to instill if therearen’t any around. In most of the families in the Bible,several generations live together.

Many grandparents today also play an active role inhomeschooling, instructing, guiding, coaching, and shar-ing the teaching and attention load with Mom.

Since so many homeschoolers have more than theaverage number of children, and a single income-earner,grandparents often help financially during times whenmoney is tight.

And the presence of grandparents is a powerful rein-forcer of character-building processes.

Someone asked my wife, “Why don’t you spoil yourgrandkids?” She answered, “I guess it’s because I don’tfeel guilty about how I raised my kids!” Parents must bedisciplined before they can discipline their children. Weteach so much by example that what we say is simply notenough. “Your actions speak so loud I can’t hear yourwords,” said Emerson and others. Consistency is at theheart of discipline; unless we commit to being consistentin our words and actions, we cannot raise our childrenproperly.

As grandparents, we reinforce our children’s raising oftheir children. And the grandchildren are comforted bythis consistency.

Grandparents are an important part of the familycycle—perhaps more visibly in the homeschooler’s homethan elsewhere.

Most grandparents want to be supports, not sandbags.If it doesn’t look that way, they may need some educationand encouragement. If your parents are not part of yourchildren’s homeschool experience, perhaps they shouldbe. In fact, they might be just waiting for you to ask. !

Thirteen of Joel and N’omi’s twenty grandkids are homeschooled.

That’s easy: If grandpar-ents are in agreementwith homeschooling

parents, they can be wonderfulcontributors to the process.But if they think you arewrong to homeschool, theycan significantly obstruct the

process—even out of love and concern.Whatever your presuppositions, it is pretty clear that the

purpose of the family is to have children and raise them tomaturity. The biological evidence for this is unimpeachable,and it is bolstered by much psychology, sociology, andanthropology.

The so-called “nuclear family”—mother, father, kids—remains the basic functional unit, the building block of soci-ety, despite periodic efforts to change it.

The “extended family”—the nuclear unit plus other rel-atives, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and soon—has been just as persistent.

The family is a successful model of organization. It getsthings done. It has inherent stability. And it is, in the mostfundamental sense, self-perpetuating.

I believe that an important function of grandparents isto provide children with additional role models, beyondtheir parents. Grandparents’ intimacy with grandchildren isfree of many of the tensions that are normal between children and parents.

Love and acceptance are fundamental human needs, aspsychologist Abraham Maslow has pointed out. Other psy-chologists say we need two kinds of love—“mother love”and “father love.” The first is totally accepting, uncondi-tional approval. The second is based on achievement oraccomplishment. Healthy families provide both—and oftenfrom a variety of family members.

The love of grandparents can be thought of as a gentlerform of both mother love and father love. The most stablepeople I know have—or had—good relationships with theirgrandparents, as well as with their parents.

Although it far from universally true, grandparents oftenhave more time to listen, less of a need to evaluate, thanparents. They can supply a base of acceptance and wiseexperience that might be in short supply with parents, sim-ply because of the pressures of modern life.

Everyone wants to “make their parents proud.” Ahealthy family approves good and positive behavior. Thedesire to do the right thing stays with us throughout ourlives. When grandparents are part of the family, children areblessed with a sense of generational continuity: “I am toDad as Dad is to Grandpa. Wow!” That strengthens and

GRANDPARENTS: SUPPORT—OR SANDBAG? Dr. Joel Orr



Finding Support in ExtracurricularActivities

rent affairs intelligently, speak clearly and persuasively, navi-gate scholarly Internet research sites with ease, develop aworking vocabulary that rivals that of many college-educatedadults, and think critically from a biblical worldview.

A plethora of social skills develops as well: working witha partner, following directions from a coach, being poised infront of a crowd, attacking issues with logical argumentsinstead of attacking a person with whom you disagree, andfinding expert support for your opinions instead of relyingsolely on your own limited knowledge.

Homeschool debate and speech clubs are already estab-lished in a number of areas of the state. Here is their con-tact information: Capitol Area Communicators for Christ: [email protected] Area Debate Club:

[email protected] County Debate: [email protected] Virginia Debate Group: [email protected] Homeschool Forensics: [email protected] Area Debate Club: [email protected] Valley Forensics Club: [email protected]

For curricula and books about how to make debate andspeech a part of your homeschooling experience, we highlyrecommend the materials offered on the Training MindsMinistry website, www.trainingminds.org. Also, look forinformation and workshops about debate in Virginia at theupcoming HEAV Convention, June 2004.Kathryn Shanks, Richmond

FIRST LEGO LEAGUEFIRST LEGO League is a partnership between FIRST

(For Inspiration and Recognition of Science andTechnology) and the LEGO company. Each September,FLL reveals a challenge to the FLL teams, and eight weeksof intense design, programming, and research culminate ina sports-like tournament.

Each team is required to design and program a robot,using only LEGOs and a LEGO Mindstorms micro-computer. The robot is required to navigate independentlyand accomplish nine tasks on a 4-ft. x 7-ft. playing field.Each task has a predetermined amount of points associatedwith it; the more tasks successfully completed the morepoints the team earns.

The team also researches a problem facing the worldtoday that pertains to the season’s challenge. The kids thendevelop a compelling and creative solution to that problem,which they present to competition judges.

FLL gives awards for robot performance, team researchpresentation, robot technical design presentation, team-work, and overall (total combined) score.

Through play and dedicated hard work, teams learn skills

By coming alongside and supplementing our home-school programs, extracurricular groups provideinvaluable support to us as homeschoolers. Here are

the specific options that our readers wrote about:

DEBATEVirginia Homeschool Forensics ([email protected])

is an organization of homeschooled debate-club leaderswhose mission is to advance, organize, and connect debategroups in Virginia. Homeschoolers compete in a nation-wide league called the National Christian Forensics andCommunication Association. NCFCA maintains a websitewith basic information about tournament rules for thisleague’s two styles of debate and for the individual speakingevents (IE). You will find it at www.ncfca.org.

You may wonder how debate could possibly fit into yourhomeschool routine—with the training sessions, practices,and travel to out-of-town tournaments. We have found thatthe time and energy we’ve invested in debate to be multipliedback to our family many times over. Our teens have learnedmany valuable skills that they now use in other areas of aca-demics and real life, especially as they move on to college. Forexample, they learn how to organize their time, discuss cur-

in research, analytical thinking, teamwork, presentation,strategy, computer technology, and mechanics. Teamsreceive feedback and constructive criticism from profession-al engineers, robotics scientists, and information technolo-gists. The format is simple and inexpensive, yet providesreal-life challenges to overcome in a safe environment.Successful teamsexperience problem-solving, risk-taking,exper imentat ion,failure, and success.FLL offers a placefor non-athletic stu-dents to excel.

Kids in the Virginiatournaments com-pete at regional andstate levels. Eligible teams consist of up to ten kids fromhomeschool, neighborhood, church, family, or schoolgroups. Mentors are available to help teams overcome themore technical aspects of working with LEGO robotics.

This year more than 34,500 children (ages 9-14) fromNorth America participated in the FLL program. Of the 149teams that competed at Regional tournaments, 17 werehomeschooling teams. From those 17 initial teams, 12 per-formed well enough to go onto the state competition (whichallowed a total of only 54 teams.) Of the 25 awards given outat the state level, nine went home with homeschool teams!

To find more information about this program, check outwww.firstlegoleague.org.Jean Lockwood, MechanicsvilleEric and Heather Brown, Christiansburg

FIRST ROBOTICSThe FIRST Robotics Competition (www.usfirst.org) is

for older students. It challenges teams of students and theirmentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe,using a standard “box of parts” and a common set of rules.Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a seriesof games designed by Dean Kamen (the inventor who found-ed FIRST) and Woodie Flowers (the MIT mechanical-designprofessor whose popular class inspired the event).

The competition has grown to more than 950 teamscompeting in over 26 regional events, and a ChampionshipEvent held in Atlanta, Georgia, where more than 20,000students participate. Teams are rewarded for excellence indesign, demonstrated team spirit, graciousness and maturity,and ability to overcome obstacles.

FIRST inspires students to look at technology as fun. Itgives them an opportunity to work with tools and math, andwith professionals who have experience in these areas.Students learn to do tasks they would never do in a normal

curriculum experience, and it makes the physical sciencesand math mean something more than figures on paper.Students who might never have considered engineering as acareer find it interesting because of this program.

There are several teams in Virginia, including: RAPTAR(Robotics Adventure Professionals of Tidewater andRichmond) Sue Shields, [email protected]; andHSRO (Home School Robotics Organization) Tracey Rinaldi,[email protected] Shields, New Kent

4-HThe largest youth pro-

gram in the United States,4-H, offers opportunities incommunications, leadership,career development, animaland plant science, homeimprovement, technology,and more. The programpromotes life-skills develop-ment for nearly seven millionAmerican youth through their community clubs, special-inter-est groups, nutrition programs, school enrichment, camping,and more.

All 4-H Club members are given the opportunity to learnand practice decision-making by using the knowledge and skillsacquired at club meetings and events. The 4-H youth—not theparents or leaders—are in charge of meetings, which typicallyinclude business, educational programs, and recreation.

Members also choose a project to be done individuallyor by the group. Carrying out a project helps them “learnby doing” in a real-life situation. They gain valuable infor-mation, develop skills in working and decision-making, andlearn to accept responsibility by completing project work.

Among the many benefits of 4-H, families from thePortsmouth Explorers 4-H Club mention having parentsand children work together; seeing projects through tocompletion and then displayed or presented; seeing shychildren transform into confident speakers; receiving free 4-H curricula; participating in hands-on science projects thatare more fun to do in a group setting; receiving recognition;and good friendships for the children.

For more information on 4-H in Virginia, visithttp://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/. To talk withother homeschoolers from across the U.S. about 4-H, go tohttp://groups.yahoo.com/group/homeschool_4-H/Tina Jones, Portsmouth

NATIONAL BETA CLUBThe National Beta Club is an organization composed of

high school students who demonstrate outstanding charac-teristics both in and out of the classroom. John W. Harris,


Emily Jones, age 7, giving a presentation on“What Bears Eat.” Photo by Joshua Jones,age 12, club photographer

Robot designed by the MarsMallows of Mechanicsville.


founder of The National Beta Club, believed that academ-ics were merely the reflection of character in a student.Therefore, to be a Beta member means to be an able leader,strong in character, possessing a desire not only to advanceas far as one can personally, but to also enhance the com-munity in which one lives.

The club was first introduced to the public high schools ofSouth Carolina, but rapidly advanced throughout the nation.Private schools started their own chapters of the NationalBeta Club and were joined by homeschool chapters in 1999.

G.R.A.C.E. Academy, located in central Virginia, isproud to be the first home-educated chapter of this honorsociety. Members of the G.R.A.C.E. Academy chapterserve the community through various ministries, some ofwhich are Habitat for Humanity, Walk for Life, and CrisisPregnancy Center.

If you are a high school student who is active in yourcommunity, hold yourself to high academic standards, andare interested in joining The National Beta Club, or are anadult interested in starting your own chapter, please visitour website at www.betaclub.net. Acceptance for mem-bership is very competitive, as being a Beta is an honor thatwill enhance your future. Sophie Street, Midlothian

ODYSSEY OF THE MIND Odyssey of the Mind originated as a college professor’s

assignment to his engineering class to construct a vehicle thatwould allow them to cross a lake. The program now hasteams all over the world, from first grade through highschool, and consists of two major parts: spontaneous prob-lem-solving and long-term problem-solving.

The spontaneous portion involves giving the team a set ofinstructions and seeing how they respond within a short timelimit. For example, using a bunch of provided items (straws,paper, tape, paper clips, etc.), make a construction that will span24” and carry ping-pong balls. Other problems require moreverbal response or a combination of hands-on and verbal. Theteam is given a few minutes to think about it, and a few min-utes to perform. Judges then grade them on their performance,teamwork, creativity, and the quality of their construction.

The long-term problem-solving takes all year to prepare. Teams are given about five problems to choose from, and they have to prepare a response to theproblem using the rules provided. Check the website(www.odysseyofthemind.com) and look at the problemsynopses to get an idea of what they have to do. There are sev-eral different types of problems to choose from, but one isalways a vehicle problem, one is an interpretation of a classicwork of literature, and the others are somewhere between.Choose the problem based on your child’s interests.

This is a great way to give kids a real-life problem-solving and teamwork experience of the kind that they willencounter in the working world. It’s a wonderful way toreinforce their individuality as well as their identity as ateam member. Ruth Braun, Stafford

SCOUTS“On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God

and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help otherpeople at all times; to keep myself physically strong, men-tally awake, and morally straight.”

This Scout oath has taken on new meaning in our fam-ily, as we have embraced a fresh adventure by joining theBoy Scouts of America this year.

We have always admired what Scouting stood for, butnever had the impetus to join, until our 14-year-old son,Michael, was left without male companionship in ourhomeschool after his two older brothers left for PatrickHenry College. The necessity of having father-son timeand more masculine activities was clear to us, and the BoyScouts satisfies that need in a very fulfilling way.

The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepareyoung people to make ethical and moral choices over theirlifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oathand Law. Just by joining the Scouts you make a strong


political statement! Cub Scouts is a program designed for 7-to 10-year-olds, and Boy Scouts is for 11- to 17-year-olds.

Many churches sponsor Scout troops, and the best way tofind a good troop is to ask other satisfied Scout families, orcheck on their web page at www.scouting.org.

Meetings are once a week and last for one and a half hours.Each troop plans its own agenda of activities. Our Michael hasbuilt a rope bridge, camped in seven-degree weather, learnedsurvival skills, and gained new confidence as a young man. Myhusband has enjoyed it every bit as much as my son.

The camaraderie of the Scouts is a true benefit. They allwork towards mastering skills by earning merit badges in orderto advance up the ranks from Tenderfoot, to Second Class,then First Class, Star, Life, and to the ultimate goal—EagleScout. Only 4% of all Scouts attain this honor, but an EagleScout rank carries prestige for the rest of the Scout’s life, andwill always be included in his resume of accomplishments.

There are 120 merit badges to choose from, and 21 areneeded to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. So many choicesare available that each young man is guaranteed to find some-thing interesting and worth working towards. My older sonsnow tell us they wish they had been Boy Scouts! Michael’sgoal is to earn that rank of Eagle Scout, and we’re looking for-ward to the journey. Kathleen Sewall, Falls Church !


Coming to Virginia

dence of dozens of black holes inour galaxy and many hundreds inother galaxies. Will Dr. Sarazin’steam unravel the rest of Stella’sstory?

“Black Holes” is written byRichmond playwright Bo Wilson.Wilson and actor Judith O’Deaprovide the character voices. It isproduced by the ScienceMuseum’s Cyane Lowden in col-laboration with Dr. EdwardMurphy and Dr. Craig Sarazin ofthe University of Virginia’sAstronomy Department.

“Black Holes” is included withmuseum admission. Tickets to see Science Museum exhibits and a giant screen film in the Ethyl IMAX®DOME andPlanetarium are $11.50 for youthages 4-12, $12 for seniors aged60+ and active military, and$12.50 for adults. Exhibit-onlytickets are $6 for youth ages 4-12,$6.50 for seniors aged 60+ andactive military, and $7 for adults.Children three and under are free.The Science Museum is openMonday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.;and Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

For Science Museum informationcall (804) 864-1400 or 1-800-659-1727. Log on to www.smv.org to access the ScienceMuseum Web site. The ScienceMuseum is at 2500 West BroadStreet, Richmond, Virginia. !

BLACK HOLES AT THESCIENCE MUSEUM OFVIRGINIA

RICHMOND—Find outabout “Stella,” a giant star,how she explodes andbecomes a black hole, andabout the mysteries she stillkeeps to herself. Check outthe Science Museum ofVirginia’s multimedia plane-tarium show, “Black Holes,”featured now to June 13.

Follow Stella and Irvingthrough the life cycle of a blackhole—from blazing star to thetremendous explosion that col-lapses into a single point.According to Stella, a black holesuch as herself becomes powerfulenough to “swallow light, bendgalaxies, even bend time …”Learn about the cutting-edgeresearch conducted by theUniversity of Virginia’s Dr. CraigSarazin and his team. Workingwith the Chandra X-RayObservatory, they’ve found evi-

Visit the Science Musuem of Virginia for the newmultimedia planetarium show Black Holes.

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Now, in 2004, I pass my mortarboard and tassel to the Nixfamily as I work as the assistant to the convention director,which looks to be another fascinating and challenging way toserve the Lord and HEAV. Tony, Nancy, Amanda, Leighton,and Marshall are excited to serve our graduates, and move intothis job with three years of experience on which to build! You’llstill see me scurrying around during the graduation activities—checking tassels, talking on three walkie-talkies at once, answer-ing your questions, and hugging the necks of the families I’vegrown to love. You might even see me in the rehearsal—beingsilly and helping you relax. I’ll definitely be on the back rowwhile you meet another child with his diploma in hand—and I’llbe beaming with joy that the Lord has brought you to this placeof accomplishment and celebration.

See you at Convention!

Kati GrowGraduation Coordinator, 1999-2003Assistant to the Convention Coordinator, 2004

The Class of 2004 will graduate Saturday, June 12th at 3:30 p.m. inthe Ballroom of the Greater Richmond Convention Center.Graduation is a ticketed event. Tickets will be sent to families of grad-uates, who will distribute the tickets among their family and friends.There will be a limited number of tickets available at the HEAVTables during convention. Congratulations to the Class of 2004! !

Letters (continued from page 5)


Call or email today to find out more.

[email protected]

Want to advertise in this spot?HEAV members receive a free ad!

Where Can I Find…?In this column we provide e-mail and Web listings from and for your area. If youwant to know what support groups are out there, what field trips you can join, orwhere the closest used-book sales are, sign up for the listing(s) in your area. Anddon’t forget the HEAV Update—there’s something in there for everyone!

REGIONAL NEWSLETTERSNorthern Virginia:

Sharenet. Melissa Riemer, [email protected] or Susan Smith, [email protected]

Fredericksburg area: [email protected]

South of Richmond:Tri-Cities Home Educators. Vicki Bentley, [email protected]

Harrisonburg and Rockingham County area: Valley Home Educators (VHE). [email protected]

Roanoke area:Greater Roanoke Valley Home Educators Association.Ken Johnson, [email protected]

Tidewater area:Tidewater Homeschool Info Support (THIS, PFS, HIS). Darlene Levy, homeschooling4ULord @juno.com

Tidewater area:TEACH. [email protected]

Williamsburg area:HEART HOTLINE. Mary Blunt, [email protected]

HEAV Update: Sign up at www.heav.org

E-GROUPHomeschool_Hotline: homeschool_hotlinesubscribe@ yahoogroups.com

HELPFUL WEBSITESChildren with learning disabilities:

visit www.ldcouncil.org.National African-American Homeschoolers Alliance:

Jennifer James, [email protected]; http://www.naaha.com.

If you know of a regional e-mail listing that is sent to at least 100 families, we’d behappy to list it in this column. Send your information to [email protected].

COMING UPOur winter issue will focus on “vol-unteer and ministry opportunitiesfor homeschoolers.” Does yourfamily participate in any such activi-ty? Please tell us about it! We’reinterested in everything from blue-bird or butterfly counting, to adopt-ing streets for litter pickup, to help-ing with Meals on Wheels or soupkitchens, to volunteering in yourlocal library or nursing home, toworking with church ministries.

Please send two or three para-graphs (300 words) explaining whatyou do and where someone can goto get more information. A photowould be great, too. Put your nameand hometown on the informationand e-mail it to [email protected] November 1, 2004.

Need credit card processing service? Homeschool family can help you. Lowest rates

available from the 2nd largest credit card processor. Great prices on equipment. Convention vendors:

wireless, cordless equipment available.

For reference contact HEAV. Call Phil Owen 276-859-0748 or e-mail

[email protected].

Train up a child in the way he should go…

HEAV has been designated by theDMV to collect the applications and$10 special plate fee. We are well onour way to the 350 license plateorders needed to begin productionof the Virginia homeschool plate.

The cost of the plate is $10 per yearin addition to the registration feefor the vehicle. A random numberingsystem will be used unless youwould like to personalize yourhomeschool plate with an alphanumeric combination of your choice (additional $10 fee).

You may pay the $10 fee by credit card (Visa or MC) or check (made payable to HEAV).

HEAVAttn: License Plate

P.O. Box 6745Richmond,VA 23230-0745

Order your Virginia homeschool license plate–the first of its kind in the nation!

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 297

Richmond,VA 23230

2248 G Dabney RoadP.O. Box 6745 • Richmond, VA 23230

Visit ournew

websiteheav.org

IMPORTANT! After completing the “Application for Communiplates,” mail the completed form and$10.00 fee (The fee cannot be prorated for the initial plate imprint.), to:

Note: The back page of the DMV form gives instructions to mail the application to DMV in Richmond.Please disregard these instructions as this refers to plates that are already available. Also, if paying by check,be sure you make the check payable to HEAV. New license plates can only be issued via an organizationauthorized by DMV. HEAV will, in turn, write one check to accompany the application for this plate.

We only have until

July 1, 2004, to send in

the first 350 orders.

Send us yours today!

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