Study Reveals Homeschool Students Score 37 Points Higher

Study Reveals Homeschool Students Score 37 Points Higher on Standardized Achievement Tests

A newly released study from the Home School Legal Defense Association shows that not only do homeschoolers incur expenses only 5 percent of what public schools spend on each student; they score nearly 40 points higher on standardized achievement tests.

“These results validate the dedication of thousands of homeschool parents who are giving their children the best education possible,” said Michael Smith, president of the advocacy organization.

The HSLDA said homeschooling in the United States already includes about 4 percent of the school-aged population and is growing at about 7 percent a year, now involving some two million children.

The report, “Progress Report 2009: Homeschool Academic Achievement and Demographics,” was conducted by Brian Ray of the National Home Education Research Institute.

Ancient Greeks to Homeschooling, School Trends

“When Americans think about education, they see a school.” This is probably one of the biggest adjustments for homeschoolers and home school students to make. Bridgeway Academy has added a new article talking about how the idea of learning and schools has grown and changed over time. Some of the topics covered in the article are:

Education in the Gymnasium

“Alexander the Great was privately tutored by famed Greek philosopher Aristotle, and today is recognized as one of the first known homeschoolers…..”

American Trends in Education

“Eventually, the model of standardized, one-size-fits-all education….”

Homeschooling: From Fringe to Fashionable

“Despite evidence that having children learn in the home created a
positive impact on child development and learning….”

The Evolution and Devolution of Education

“With a growing recognition that education is much more than merely a
prerequisite to starting one’s “adult life,”…..”

American Homeschooling Today

“Where homeschooling once symbolized the sole educational option for the elite, today it is defined by its flexibility.”

Please visit “Trends in Education: Schools From Greeks to American Homeschooling“ to read the rest of the story.

2011 Bridgeway Academy Valedictorian Dances Off To College

Bridgeway Academy is pleased to announce our 2011 valedictorian, Juvanne Dartnall from Costa Mesa, CA. In addition to having the highest GPA for those Bridgeway Academy students who attended the high school graduation ceremony, Juvanne is a passionate ballet dancer who performs in several ballets a year. (We looked it up…that’s a professional ballet schedule!)

How did she feel about this achievement?  More about Juvanne Dartnall

Is it time to Home School?

Sometimes the hardest thing about homeschooling is making the decision to do it.  Often parents wrestle with questions like “can I do it?” or “will they miss their friends?” or even “what will we do all day?”

There are many reasons to homeschool from the need to help our kids catch up on academics to the need to challenge our advanced learners who are simply bored in school.  Or from the need to get our kids out of a terrible social environment to the need to take back more time for them to pursue other interests such as a specific sport or vocation.

But for those struggling with the decision, when is it a safe time to say it is time to homeschool?

If you find yourself asking yourself over and over again, “Is is time to homeschool?” then step back and consider the following.  Read the rest of the article.

Home Education is taking the country by storm

Learning disabled? Two common Mistakes

Dear Friend,

There are two common mistakes that most families with Learning Disabled students make?

Families with a learning disabled child often try to solve learning problems using methods that have failed the educational establishment for decades and thereby frustrate their children.

Or, they resort to expensive tutoring programs that at best only help children to pass tests. Actual learning seldom occurs and then the family is forced to pay for another expensive block of tutorial sessions.

It seems hopeless, but don’t despair, you’re about to discover the crucial success tools that the vast majority of LD families have completely overlooked.

Why are these tools so often ignored or overlooked?

Because many think learning disabilities are something you are born with. Many believe that learning disabilities cannot be corrected … at best they can only be compensated for.

But the truth is very different. You simply haven’t been shown the latest tools that make it relatively easy to correct most learning problems. This incredible technology is available to us today. And when you do see it, I promise you that you will be encouraged and amazed.

It would not be an exaggeration to say that your child’s learning problems will be a thing of the past … in just a few short months.

I have been solving learning problems since 1989. Literally thousands of clients have used our programs and we can literally count on one hand the number of students we have been unable to help.

Most clients have been brought to grade level functionality in less than 130 at- home sessions.

What is truly amazing is, our Home Therapy sessions are administered (by you) in the comfort of your home! We train you, assist and monitor your progress through the whole process.

You are not alone! We help you every step of the way!

Using 800 number access, and email contact to our highly trained staff, and online monitoring of our self managed programs, we walk with you through the whole process. We commit ourselves to your success.

Please read through this website and call or email us with any questions. Our staff will work with you and provide you with everything you need.

To your learning success:
Dr. Robert E. Salzman

Writing Contests for Homeschoolers

If you’ve read my blog Homeschooling Help in the past, you know that I am passionate about writing.  I believe that with the right motivation and the right approach, any child can learn to write and write well.

The ability to convey ideas in writing has become even more essential with the advancements of technology.  An individual who can communicate well, earns respect.  And with email becoming the communication tool of choice, we must ensure that our children have the tools to write well.

Molly Fox knows the importance of writing and of using the right motivation to help children become stronger writers.  This incredible young homeschooler, founder of Homeschoolwriters.com maintains a website designed to keep you up to date with writing contests and opportunities for your child.

Be sure to visit her site and select several contests that will interest your child.  The spirit of competition and the opportunity for feedback will do wonders!

Please visit Homeschooling Help for more from Jessica Parnell.

Bridgeway extends High School Diploma Program

As a  homeschool academy Bridgeway is dedicated to helping high school drop outs get more than a GED.  Bridgeway knows they difference a real high school diploma will make.

Hope for High School Drop Outs

Bridgeway High School brings its proven high school diploma program to adults all across the United States.

Catasauqua, PA, October 1, 2009 – Bridgeway High School, an extension of Bridgeway Homeschool Academy gained its state license today to provide a high school diploma program to adults.  This license, combined with their national accreditation through the National Association of Private Schools, gives adults hope for a better future.

“Adults without a high school diploma are really struggling in this economy.  Competition is up and many times advancement within a company depends upon that high school diploma.  Our goal is to not only help each of our adult students gain that diploma, but to prepare them both academically and intellectually for whatever the future holds,” commented Jessica Parnell, President of Bridgeway High School.

With some city centers reporting a drop out rate from high school and junior high school as high as 79% and an average drop out rate in America’s largest cities at 50%, the need for an educational alternative for adults is huge (report by the National Center of Education Statistics).

In fact, according to a study by the National Center of Education Statistics, young adults with low education and skill levels are more likely to live in poverty and to receive government assistance.  In addition, high school dropouts are likely to stay on public assistance longer than those with at least a high school degree.  In addition, despite perceptions that a GED holds the same weight as a high school diploma, we are finding that this is simply not the case.  Many employers are seeking individuals who demonstrate a drive and a willingness to work hard.  Therefore, an adult with a GED rather than a high school diploma has an immediate hurdle to overcome in the eyes of a potential employer. Now with Bridgeway High School adults have a way out of the struggle and a means to improve their own economic situation.  Many see their high school diploma as a stepping stone to higher education, with the largest population of graduates moving on to study nursing.  Other graduates, such as Erica needed the diploma in order to move forward in her career:  “I am currently working as a C.N.A. (certified nursing assistant) with the opportunity to advance further now that I have earned my diploma.”

The adult high school program has already helped hundreds of students gain their high school diploma and not settle for a GED. With a high school diploma in hand they are well on their way to pursuing a life of excellence and productivity.

“We want to effect change in many more lives,” said Parnell, “The success of our students is our mission and they can feel it.  This is not a one size fits all type of high school diploma program. Instead, we work with each adult student individually to determine the courses he or she needs to achieve their goals.   And then we walk with them every step of the way to keep them focused and moving forward toward that mark.”

And the students seem to agree with that assessment as indicated by this comment from a Bridgeway high school adult high school diploma program graduate, Seth Addai:

“Bridgeway High School has the best Adult High School Diploma Program I have ever experienced in my life.  The program is well organized; all you need to do is to follow instructions.  The staff always provides friendly, helpful services and kept me motivated to keep moving forward. Right now I’m planning to go to School of Visual Arts to study undergraduate computer art.  I would recommend Bridgeway High School’s adult program to anybody—especially someone with a busy schedule.  Thank you Bridgeway High School! “

About Bridgeway High School
Bridgeway High School is a state licensed private school offering correspondence and online distance learning programs to adults seeking a high school diploma. Located in Catasauqua, PA, Bridgeway High School serves students across the United States and around the world.  To learn more visit www.adultdiploma.com, www.homeschoolacademy.com/homeschool-learning-programs/adult-high-school-diploma/ or call 1-800-863-1474.
Newsroom – Home School Information from Bridgeway Homeschool Academy
URL: http://www.homeschoolacademy.com/newsroom/

Bridgeway Voice – September 13, 2009

In this week’s edition of Bridgeway Voice Mom and Homeschool Teacher: Two Hats or One? Learn Quick Tips to Make Fitness Fun Financial Set-Backs Can Be Re-Awakenings Tips to Save Serious Cash at the Grocery Store   Mom and Homeschool Teacher: Two Hats or One? From Jessica’s BlogA reader recently asked me how to handle acting as both mother and teacher.  How do you wear both hats?  How do you switch back and forth between both roles? My answer: you don’t.   As a mother, you have been the primary teacher to your child from the moment the doctor laid that precious baby in your arms.  It was you who taught them to say “please” and “thank-you”; it was you who taught them to walk, to talk, to get dressed, to be respectful, to obey rules, to eat . . . You taught them how to accept disappointment and to handle victory. Did you ever consider switching roles between mother and teacher then?  Of course not! It was all in a day’s work and it has been rewarding! This is how you must approach homeschooling. You are a mother.  And as a mother, you have been a teacher for many years.  Perhaps you wonder how you can be effective as an academic teacher without teacher training?  If so, click here and read my post on Homeschooling Certification. Bottom line is, you can do it because you have been doing it! Read More Making Fitness Fun It’s the secret to keeping kids active. So, how can you achieve it? Moving in Place: Have kids who like TV and video games? Institute a new house rule: Time Watching = Time Moving. Have them run in place, jump rope, or jump on a mini-trampoline while watching the tube. Dancing with the Family: Take a break from folding laundry, and crank up some tunes the whole family will enjoy. Dancing burns lots of calories…and it’s fun! Change YOUR Attitude: Parents’ own attitudes pack a big punch. It’s hard for a mom or dad to expect a child to get excited about exercise when he or she doesn’t follow suit. Kids who enjoy sports and exercise tend to stay active throughout their lives, especially if mom and dad are doing it and enjoying it right along with them Older Kids: Challenges definitely loom larger as kids get older. Some studies have found that even eager young children’s attitudes towards physical activity can dwindle as they reach adolescence. In those cases, try replacing old habits with new ones gradually. And don’t throw in the towel when you meet resistance. A lot of times, they say ‘yes’ the third time around. Encourage them for what they do do.” In the end the benefit to getting your child exercising is more than burning calories or building muscles; it also contributes to better self-esteem and an overall healthier kid. Excerpt taken from metroparent.com Setback or Financial Re-Awakening? Financial set-backs happen to us all. Realizing spending habits must change is not always easy–but it can be a time of financial re-birth. Perhaps this is an opportunity for you to reflect on how your family perceives and uses money. Include family members in making decisions or changes that you feel are necessary for the financial well-being of your family. Determine which thing must be purchased now and what can wait until later. What’s most important?   Set the family up for success by thinking positively. Don’t use money to simply make everyone feel good when the chips are down. Everyone can help tighten the purse strings and eliminate needless spending. By taking time to look at how your family manages its finances, you might find that this setback actually puts you light years ahead.

Quick Links Bridgeway Home Member Log In Contact Us Jessica’s Blog   Homeschool  Tip: Check Out These Money Saving Websites Ready to save some serious money on your next grocery bill?    Then you’ll want to check out these two websites:   moneysavingmom.com and krazycouponlady.com.   Both are filled with great coupon-clipping tips and ways to stretch your weekly grocery budget.   Warning: coupon-clipping can be habit-forming, so prepare to spend time sifting through all the helpful info!

Bridgeway Voice – September 6, 2009

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Dear Jessie, In this week’s edition of Bridgeway Voice Bridgeway Welcomes New Advisor Becky Hillman Learn How Relationship-building Affects Your Child’s Responsiveness New Hampshire Judge Orders Christian Homeschooler to Attend Public School Tips to Make Grandparents Day Special   New and Exciting Changes at Bridgeway Academy We are excited to share that Rebecca Hillman, who stood in for Brenda Farrell during her leave of absence, will be joining the Bridgeway team full time!  As many of you know, Brenda and her family moved to New York this summer. She intended to continue her position as advisor to juniors and seniors remotely once she was fully settled in.   However, with the growth of our online high school and Brenda’s clear gift for all things computer related, she will shift to serve as the primary teacher/advisor to our online students.  We are confident that this shift will be a terrific one for all of our students.   Many of you have already expressed your appreciation for Becky, who is a welcome addition to the Bridgeway family. In addition to serving as the advisor to our juniors and seniors, Becky is also pursuing a Master’s Degree in Education at Cedar Crest College. Please feel free to give her a call or drop her a note with questions, concerns or words of encouragement!   We look forward to another great year! Building Relationship Makes Kids More Responsive  Many parents see a problem and start giving instructions immediately. This often means that they yell across the parking lot or bark commands from the other side of the house. We believe this approach isn’t the best. It’s not enough to see the need and tell someone to respond to it. That approach doesn’t demonstrate value for the relationship. Parenting isn’t just about getting tasks done; it’s about building relationships at the same time.Start by getting close to your child. Most of the time this means that before you give an instruction you call your child over to you. This presents a problem in many young families because preschoolers often don’t come when they’re called. The fact is, even older children don’t come when they’re called unless they are taught to do so.Take time to teach your children how to come when you call them. It takes practice but it’s well worth the work. Parents often ask, “What do I do in the grocery store when I call my preschooler and he runs away?” Well, the grocery store isn’t the place to practice. That’s the final exam! By practicing over and over at home and at the park, children are then able to respond in public.Like every step in a good instruction routine, getting close to each other requires changes from both child and parent. Children also find it tempting to yell across the house. Now children learn that dialogue only takes place when relationship has been established through eye contact and being physically close together. Sometimes it’s the small things that demonstrate that a parent cares or that a child is willing to listen. Putting down the paper, looking up from the computer, or just turning to face your child before you speak communicates the importance of what you are about to say. Some parents report major improvement in a child’s responsiveness when they just implement this step and give instructions only when the child is within a few feet. Sometimes that little nonverbal statement about your relationship is all that’s needed to gain a more cooperative attitude from your child. Excerpt taken from biblicalparenting.org Building Relationships With Our Children Many parents see a problem and start giving instructions immediately. This often means that they yell across the parking lot or bark commands from the other side of the house. We believe this approach isn’t the best. It’s not enough to see the need and tell someone to respond to it. That approach doesn’t demonstrate value for the relationship. Parenting isn’t just about getting tasks done; it’s about building relationships at the same time.Start by getting close to your child. Most of the time this means that before you give an instruction you call your child over to you. This presents a problem in many young families because preschoolers often don’t come when they’re called. The fact is, even older children don’t come when they’re called unless they are taught to do so.Take time to teach your children how to come when you call them. It takes practice but it’s well worth the work. Parents often ask, “What do I do in the grocery store when I call my preschooler and he runs away?” Well, the grocery store isn’t the place to practice. That’s the final exam! By practicing over and over at home and at the park, children are then able to respond in public. Like every step in a good instruction routine, getting close to each other requires changes from both child and parent. Children also find it tempting to yell across the house. Now children learn that dialogue only takes place when relationship has been established through eye contact and being physically close together. Sometimes it’s the small things that demonstrate that a parent cares or that a child is willing to listen. Putting down the paper, looking up from the computer, or just turning to face your child before you speak communicates the importance of what you are about to say. Some parents report major improvement in a child’s responsiveness when they just implement this step and give instructions only when the child is within a few feet. Sometimes that little nonverbal statement about your relationship is all that’s needed to gain a more cooperative attitude from your child. Excerpt taken from biblicalparenting.org Court Orders Homeschooler to Attend Public School A Christian homeschool girl in New Hampshire has been ordered into government-run public school for having “sincerely held” religious beliefs — and the Alliance Defense Fund is troubled by the ruling.   The case involves divorced couple Martin Kurowski and Brenda Voydatch and their 10-year-old daughter, Amanda. The couple split in 1999 when they were living in Massachusetts, and the proceedings moved to New Hampshire after Voydatch relocated to that state with her daughter in 2002.   Although Voydatch has primary custody over Amanda, both parents agreed to a parenting plan that included joint decision-making responsibility. A court-appointed guardian served as a mediator.   A source of contention between the parents has been the mother’s decision to home school Amanda since first grade. Amanda’s father believes she should be sent to public school, while the mother is adamant about home schooling. Since both parents have failed to reach common ground, the issue moved to the court.   The situation was then analyzed by the court-appointed guardian, who made a recommendation to the court. During the evaluation process it was determined that Amanda was excelling in her schooling and used curriculum that was approved by her school district. The curriculum used in her home schooling was created by certified teachers, and Amanda routinely took standardized tests.   Furthermore, Amanda attended her local public school to take art, Spanish, and P.E. classes. Her public school instructors also commented on the fact that Amanda was well-rounded in her social skills. But a sticking point arose concerning Voydatch’s Christian faith. Read More

Quick Links Bridgeway Home Member Log In Contact Us   Free Event for Lehigh Valley Residents Kids Discovery Expo Saturday, Sept. 12 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.       Homeschool Tip: Make Grandparents Day Special Sunday, September 13 Marian McQuade founded National Grandparents Day in 1973. In addition to honoring our grandparents, the purpose of this special day is to help children become aware of the strength, wisdom, and guidance afforded to them by their grandparents. Want to learn more about making this day extra-special for the grandparents in your life? Visit the official Grandparents Day website.