Home Education Handbook

Overview & Synopsis

Alberta parents enjoy a range of choices for their children's education, including the option of home education. Alberta's "School Act" and its funding guidelines for education recognize the central role of parents in the education of their children. No matter what your decision about educational programming, your ongoing involvement and support represent a critical contribution to your children's learning. The main purpose of the "Home Education Handbook" is to help parents who are thinking of starting a home education program. The handbook will also be of assistance to home-educating parents who want to refine their existing programs. In choosing educational programs for children, parents need to consider several factors: (1) children's interests, learning styles, strengths and needs; (2) the family's beliefs and values; (3) available program options: regular schooling, charter schools, private schools, or home education; (4) costs and available financial support; (5) time available to support a child's education; and (6) legal requirements related to schooling. In reflecting on these factors, you may decide that home education is the best option for your child. Alberta's laws recognize your right to make that choice and authorize financial support for home education programs. But with the right comes responsibility, and this handbook will help parents understand the responsibilities. Not only does it furnish essential information, it also features suggestions for starting, maintaining and monitoring home education programs. The handbook is organized according to a typical process followed by home educators. The Parent's Notebook pages can help parents keep track as they move through the process. Appended are: (1) "Home Education Regulation"; (2) Home Education Policy; and (3) Home Education Notification Form.