Military Homeschool Q&A: How To Start, Home of Record, Overseas

Episode #25- This week, Crystal tackles the top three questions she receives from military homeschooling families: How do I start homeschooling? Can I use Home of Record to register our homeschool? Are we able to homeschool when stationed overseas?

All three of these frequently asked questions have been answered in more depth on previous podcast episodes. This episode aims to bring all three of these FAQs conveniently together in one place.

Question #1: How do I start homeschooling?

Probably Crystal’s most frequently asked question. Here’s a quick 5-step guide to get you started homeschooling:

1. Find out the legal requirements for homeschooling in your area.
2. Research curriculum options.
3. Devise a flexible homeschool schedule.
4. Create a support system.
5. Check out homeschool curriculum fairs and attend a homeschool conference.

Question #2: Can we use Home of Record when declaring (or registering) our homeschool?

The quick answer is, unfortunately, no.

The longer explanation is- You are not able to use Home of Record when registering that you homeschool unless it’s the state where you are actually currently and actively residing. Otherwise, you must use your current address, the locale where you are actually residing for 30 days or more.

 Question #3: Can we homeschool when stationed overseas and how?

Yes, military families may be able to homeschool overseas. However, it’s important to note that the family must be on the sponsor’s orders.

If you and your children are on your sponsor’s orders, and let’s say the sponsor gets orders to Germany. If it’s a country like Germany that has the Status of Forces Agreement, then you can homeschool because the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) has no regulation over homeschooling.

Crystal also touches on two additional questions, so be sure to listen in to this week’s show!

Resources:

Episode #9- How to Start Homeschooling Checklist for Military Families

Episode #21- Practical and Legal Aspects of Homeschooling for Military Families

HSLDA Resources for Military Families

If you have a question that Crystal did not address today, you can email your question to MilitaryHomeschoolPodcast@gmail.com. Crystal would love to connect with you!

Join Crystal and her guests each week as they bring relevant information to equip you, stories to encourage you, and content to inspire you. You don’t have to go it alone, tune in to the Military Homeschool Podcast, and be energized in your military homeschooling journey!

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Got questions, comments, or have show topic ideas? Contact Crystal via email at militaryhomeschoolpodcast@gmail.com or connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

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