Q. How does the performance of home schooled children compare with the performance of children that attend public schools?

A. For detailed studies and analysis, you may order the "Home Schooling Works" booklet from the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) or the "Home Schooling on the Threshold" booklet from NHERI. These may also be obtained from THSC for $2 each.

Q. Am I qualified to teach my children? Q. What about socialization?

A. The following resources answer these questions plus much more:
The THSC's Handbook for Texas Home Schoolers covers the history of homeschooling in Texas. Articles on getting started, educating children with special needs, preparing your child for graduation, and much more are dealt with in this informative book. A copy of this handbook is available at all 5 branches of the Amarillo Public Library. The HSLDA provides a booklet called Home Schooling Works which responds to some of the objections raised regarding home schooling. It is a national study of home schoolers, including their achievements and their family background. NHERI provides a booklet called Home Schooling on the Threshold which is "designed to review important and representative research on home schooling to date." See also The Teaching Home's website article "Questions & Answers Concerning Home Schooling" , or obtain a copy of this brochure from The Teaching Home, Box 20219, Portland OR 97294-0219. Books are available at the Amarillo Public Library. Contact PCHEA for a detailed list.

Q. How do I withdraw my child(ren) from public school?

A. We highly recommend you purchase the THSC's Handbook for Texas Home Schoolers. It includes information on various subjects dealing with home schooling in Texas as well.

We strongly recommend that you prayerfully consider your decision to home school before you withdraw your child from school. Write a letter to the principal of your child's school stating that you will be withdrawing your child and will be complying with the state law. State each of the requirements specifically. Keep a copy for yourself.

Q. Should I follow the public school calendar?

A. Following the public school calendar may be a good starting point your first year. Allow for holidays, sick days, teacher planning days, etc. Establish a daily schedule of subjects to be taught. After a few weeks you may want to change the schedule to better fit the needs of your children--be flexible. Your family is making major adjustments so be patient with yourself and your child(ren).

Q. What about curriculum?

A. The Central Library Youth Department has a reference shelf of homeschooling curriculum samples. You may look at a variety of textbooks designed for homeschooling as well as teacher manuals for literature based approaches. These books have been donated so that homeschoolers may look at various samples before purchasing curriculum. You may purchase home schooling curriculum at A&D Bookstore, Lifeway Christian Store, and Family Christian Store. Many homeschoolers purchase their curriculum online from numerous suppliers.