A Journey in Homeschooling

BARBARA HEDGEWITCH

Spring 2001

With the coming of spring, some parents want to explore educational options for their children. Now is a good time to investigate homeschooling for next fall. One of the most important things for new homeschoolers is finding a support system. It is really helpful to have experienced people handy to answer your questions and share their tips and resources. But as a minority (homeschooler) within a minority (Pagan), it's not always easy finding the support and encouragement we need.

Where do Pagan homeschoolers find support? In some parts of the country, finding a support group that welcomes Pagans is impossible. Some support groups state up front that they have a specific religious focus. Others don't, but it's evident once you get there. Often, local homeschool support groups are heavily dominated by members of a specific religion. Many groups are set up especially for Christians, and one must sign a statement of faith to join. Some groups don't require the statement of faith except for their group leaders. Indeed, in some groups this fact isn't disclosed to the general membership. I know of several instances in which non-Christian group members found this out only when they attempted to volunteer for a board position.

In my wanderings around the internet, I've discovered that different people define the term "inclusive" differently. I defined the term as a group that includes homeschoolers from all walks of life. Much to my surprise, I discovered that some Christian groups define "inclusive" as meaning "we'll include you in our meetings, but this group has a Christian focus." The term they use to describe my version of inclusive is "secular."

What's a Pagan to do? If you don't have a local support group in your area in which you feel welcomed, you still have a few options. Start a group of your own; join your state inclusive group (if one exists); find support on the internet; remain isolated (not a good option).

Starting a new group can be a daunting task, but if you have a couple of homeschooling friends, you could start out as a loosely organized playgroup. If this is successful, once you have a good base of regulars, you could decide to actually organize a group with officers, bylaws, etc. Or, you can simply decide to start a group, find a meeting place and post notices in your area. You may be pleasantly surprised at the turnout!

If you prefer to find your support on the internet, be prepared to be pleasantly surprised! There are a number of email lists specifically for Pagans, and many more in which religious beliefs are simply not an issue. Try doing a search at www.yahoogroups.com . Punch in the words "pagan parenting" or "pagan homeschooling" into their search engine, and you should be rewarded with several listings of groups. For support in which religion is not an issue, try Home Education Magazine's list: HEMnetworking-subscribe@yahoogroups.com, or the lively discussion list sponsored by NHEN: NHEN-SpeakOut-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

If you don't have easy access to the internet and there are no local support groups for you in your area, you can still find support and inspiration from the following magazines: Home Education Magazine and Growing Without Schooling. These are the two best homeschooling magazines on the market, and both should be available at your public library or bookstore.

Home Education Magazine
PO Box 1063
Tonasket, WA 98855-1083
800-236-3278
website: www.home-ed-magazine.com