Never thought I'd be considering it, but sil is going to try it and now I'm wondering how many people here have ever done it. Was it worth it and are you glad? What would you have done differently? Would you recommend it to someone else? TIA,

Darn, I was really hoping someone would jump in and share an "It's as easy as pie to homeschool in Nevada" story. We put in for New Mexico and Nevada, and now I'm wondering if we shouldn't have put in for Nevada. :scared: Maybe I should start a new thread asking about Nevada? And, just in case you were wondering, I had to post that long list in separate posts because there's a limit to how much you can post at one time. I can't remember if it's 10,000 or what. Didn't want anyone thinking I was trying to inflate my numbers. Thanks for all your replies. It's good to know that it's not as scary to homeschool as it seems in many states.

I'm heading out of town today, so I won't be able to check in on this thread until next week. Whew, I'm sure glad I'm done typing it! :tongue_smilie:

UTAH: B+ Compulsory Ages - 6-18 Notification Requirements - Annual request for home exemption. Parental Qualifications - Unenforced possibility that school board can consider basic educative ability of parent in granting request to homeschool. Format - None Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Generic: Language arts, math, science, social studies, art, health, computer literacy, vocational education. Access - All decisions are local. Other Requirements - 180 days/ year, 5 1/2 hours/day (4 1/2 for 1st grade; 2 1/2 for kindergarten). VERMONT: D Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - Annual enrollment notice on state-provided form. Submission to approval from commissioner. Parental Qualifications - None Format - May teach children residing in own home, plus maximum of two children from one additional family. Reporting Requirements - Annual enrollment notice must include outline of course of study, along with assessment of handicap for each child not previously enrolled in school. Testing Requirements - Submit annual standardized test results. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Submit annual assessment by certified or approved teacher, report and portfolio from commercial curriculum provider, or report prepared by parents along with portfolio of child's work. Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, English, science, math, social studies (citizenship, history, U.S. and VT government), physical education, health, fine arts. Access - Free testing, access to classes, qualified access to athletics and activities; other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 175 days/year. Special education students subject to additional considerations. VIRGINIA: F Compulsory Ages - 5-18 (may be delayed one year if parent believes child is not mentally, physically, or emotionally prepared to attend school) Notification Requirements - Annual notice of intent. (Religious exemption permits a one-time notice of intent.) Parental Qualifications - Bachelor's degree, or Board-qualified teacher, or have student enrollment in approved correspondence course or in division superintendent-approved study. (Must meet state learning objectives, and prove that parent is able to provide "adequate education.") No requirements under religious exemption; parent or teacher under private tutor exemption must hold teacher certification. Format - Standard homeschool option applies to all except for observants of particular religious faiths and those using hired tutors. Reporting Requirements - Annual notice of intent must include description of the curriculum and documentary evidence of compliance with parental qualification standards. Upon request by division superintendent, submit immunization records or affidavit of exemption on religious or medical grounds. (Religious exemption format requires extensive documentary evidence proving sincere belief in a religious faith that has a bona fide opposition to public schools; affidavit form religious expert concurring with parents' opposition, and letters from other acquaintances vouching for sincerity of belief.) Testing Requirements - Annual test with SofD score above the 40th percentile. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Submit annual assessment indicating to satisfaction of division superintendent that child is achieving adequate level of education progress. Subject Requirements - Generic: Curriculum or program of study that includes the state's Standards of Learning for math and language arts. Access - No athletics or activities, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 180 days/ year. WASHINGTON: B- Compulsory Ages - 8-18 Notification Requirements - Annual declaration of intent, using state-developed form. File by Sept. 15. Parental Qualifications - Complete 45 hours of college credit or college level course in home education; or obtain approval from local school superintendent; or undergo weekly supervision from certified teacher. Format - May teach own children only. Reporting Requirements - Maintain records of test scores or annual academic progress assessments, immunization records, other records relating to instructional and educational activities. No requirement to submit records unless student returns to public school. Testing Requirements - Annual standardized test administered by qualified person. Not submitted. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Annual academic assessment by certified teacher in lieu of test. Not submitted. Subject Requirements - None Access - Access to testing, classes, athletics, activities. Other decisions are local. Other Requirements - None WEST VIRGINIA: D- Compulsory Ages - 6-16 Notification Requirements - One-time notice of intent filed with county board of education at least two weeks prior to withdrawal from public school. Parental Qualifications - High school diploma and at least four years' more instruction than most academically advanced child. (Four-year rule waived until June 2003.) (Board-approval option requires that parent "Be deemed qualified" by local educational authorities." Format - Establish a homeschool. (Alternative format, obtaining board approval, has entirely subjective requirements. Second alternative allows a group of homeschools to organize as a single alternative school subject to a different set of requirements.) Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - By June 20, annual standardized test administered by school or county-authorized person, not parent. If scores fall below 40th percentile for three consecutive years, student must enroll in public/private school. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - In lieu of test, submit annual academic assessment by certified teacher or other agreeable means. Subject Requirements - Generic: English, grammar, reading, social studies, math. Access - Free testing, no athletics or activities, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - None (approval option requires 180 days). WISCONSIN: B- Compulsory Ages - 6-18 Notification Requirements - Annual affidavit on a specific government form to Department of Public Instruction by October 15. Call 1-888-245-2732, ext. 1, and request form Pl-1206. Form must be received prior to withdrawal from public school. Parental Qualifications - None Format - One family unit only. Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Generic: Sequentially progressive curriculum of fundamental instruction in math, reading, language arts, social studies, science, health. Access - Possible fee for testing, qualified access to classes and athletics, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 875 hours of instruction per year, during same hours as local public schools. WYOMING: A Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - Annual submission of curriculum to local board to demonstrate compliance. Parental Qualifications - None Format - One family unit only. Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Generic: Sequentially progressive curriculum of fundamental instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, civics, history, literature, science. Exemptions for religious objections. Access - Free testing, access to classes, may be a fee for athletics and activities. Other Requirements - 175 days/year.

RHODE ISLAND: D- Compulsory Ages - 6-16 Notification Requirements - Must obtain approval by the school committee of the town wherein the child resides. Parental Qualifications - None, but local school board has authority to make demands. Format - As defined by local school boards. Reporting Requirements - Submit an attendance register. Testing Requirements - Local school officials may require testing or other evaluation. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - At the discretion of local school board. Subject Requirements - Extensive: Reading, writing, geography, math, U.S. history, history of Rhode Island, the principles of American government. Shall be taught in the English language. Constitution and government of Rhode Island and of the United States. Health and physical education. Access - Free testing, guaranteed access to materials, restricted access to athletics, other decisions are local but access is "encouraged." Other Requirements - Attendance "substantially equal" to public schools. SOUTH CAROLINA: C Compulsory Ages - 5-17 (may be excused from kindergarten with written notice to school district) Notification Requirements - None Parental Qualifications - High school diploma or GED Format - Least-hassle alternative: Join an association for homeschools that has at least 50 members. Other options (going through local school district or through the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools) have more requirements and/or higher cost. Reporting Requirements - Each association must annually report number and grade level of members to local school districts. Maintain evidence of regular instruction, including a plan book, diary, or other record indicating subjects taught and activities in which the student and parent-teacher engage; a portfolio of samples of the student's academic work; and a semi-annual progress report including attendance records and individualized documentation of the student's academic progress in each of the basic instructional areas. Testing Requirements - None. (Local school option requires annual Basic Skills Assessment Program.) Other Assessments Required/Accepted - None Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, writing, math, science, social studies; also composition and literature in grades 7-12. Access - Possible fee for testing, no athletics or activities, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 180 days/ year. (Local school board option also requires 4 1/2 hours/day.) SOUTH DAKOTA: D- Compulsory Ages - 6-16 (children under 7 can be excused) Notification Requirements - Annual notarized application for excuse, using a state-provided form. Parental Qualifications - None Format - Non individual may instruct more than 22 children. Secretary of the Department of Education and Cultural Affairs may investigate and determine whether the instruction is being provided. Failure to provide instruction is grounds for the school board, upon 30 days notice, to revoke the excuse from school attendance. Reporting Requirements - Submit birth certificate. Maintain attendance and evidence showing academic progress, which are a defense against assertions of educational neglect. Testing Requirements - Grades 2, 4, 8, and 11. SofD cut-off: "Less than satisfactory" academic progress. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - None Subject Requirements - Generic: Basic skills of language arts and math. All instructions shall be given so as to lead to a mastery of the English language. Access - Free testing, guaranteed access to materials, no high school athletics or competitive activities, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - Equivalent period of time as in the public schools. TENNESSEE: F Compulsory Ages - 6-17 Notification Requirements - Annual registration with local education authority by August 1 or be subject to fine. Students affiliated with church school need not register annually until high school. Parental Qualifications - Bachelor's degree required to teach high school-aged students; high school diploma for lower grades. Parents whose children are affiliated with a church school need only a high school diploma. Format - Register with LEA, or affiliate with a church school, most of which are pricey and require families to sign a statement of adherence to a particular religious faith. Reporting Requirements - Submit proof of vaccinations and of receipts of other health services required by law. Testing Requirements - Grades 5, 7, and 9, 10, 11, 12. SofD testing level in upper grades: Less than one year behind grade level/average. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - None Subject Requirements - Strict curriculum requirements for high school-aged children. Church school-affiliated children are exempted. Access - All decisions are local. Other Requirements - 4 hours/day for same number of days as required for public schools. Church school-affiliated high school students must register with LEA. TEXAS: A- Compulsory Ages - 6-17 Notification Requirements - None Parental Qualifications - None Format - Operate a bona fide homeschool, which is considered a home-school. Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - None Subject Requirements - Generic: Written curriculum from any source, covering reading, spelling, grammar, math, good citizenship. Access - No access to testing, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - Cooperate with any reasonable inquiry from an attendance officer.

OHIO: D- Compulsory Ages - 6-18 Notification Requirements - Annual notice of intent to homeschool. Parental Qualifications - GED or high school diploma, or assurance that parent is working under supervision of person with Baccalaureate degree. Format - None Reporting Requirements - Outline of curriculum and textbooks attached to notice of intent, for informational purposes only. Testing Requirements - Annual standardized test, with results sent to superintendent. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Alternative to testing: Submit annual written narrative indicating that a portfolio of child's work has been reviewed by certified teacher. Subject Requirements - Extensive: Language arts, geography, U.S. and Ohio history, government, math, health, physical education, fine arts, first aid, science. Access - Free testing; restricted access to athletics; other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 900 hours/year. OKLAHOMA: B Compulsory Ages - 5-18 Notification Requirements - None Parental Qualifications - GED or high school diploma, or assurance that parent is working under supervision of person with Baccalaureate degree. Format - Education in "good faith." Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, writing, math, science, U.S. and Oklahoma citizenship. Access - No access to anything. Other Requirements - 175 days of instruction per year. OREGON: C- Compulsory Ages - 7-18 Notification Requirements - One-time notice to education service district; annual notice if child is participating in public-school activities. Parental Qualifications - None Format - None Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - Parent-pay testing in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10, plus 18 months following withdrawal from public school. SofD cutoff: Failure to achieve "satisfactory" test results. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Restrictive additional requirements for handicapped children, giving districts the power to order children into public school for failure to make satisfactory progress. Subject Requirements - None Access - Qualified access to athletics and activities; other decisions are local. Other Requirements - None PENNSYLVANIA: F Compulsory Ages - 8-17 Notification Requirements - Annual notarized declaration of intent registered with local school district. Parental Qualifications - Affidavit of high school education (Extension alternative has no requirement.) Format - Homeschool program is least expensive, most independent option. (Other choices - hire a certified private tutor or operate as an extension of a private school - are more expensive.) Reporting Requirements - Annual declaration of intent must include outline of the educational objectives arranged by subject matter, evidence of immunization, evidence of receipt of "appropriate" medical services. Testing Requirements - Grades 3, 5, and 8. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Mandatory annual assessment by certified teacher/psychologists. Portfolio, interviews with children. Subject to review of superintendent. Subject Requirements - Extensive. Elementary: English, including spelling, reading, writing; arithmetic; science; geography; U.S. and Pennsylvania history; civics; safety education, including continuous instruction in the dangers and prevention of fires; health and physiology; physical education; music; art. Secondary: English, including language, literature, speech, composition; science; geography; social studies, including civics, world history, U.S. and Pennsylvania history; math, including general mathematics, algebra, geometry; art; music; physical education; health and safety education, including regular and continuous instruction in the dangers and prevention of fires. Such courses of study may include, at the discretion of the supervisor of the home education program, economics; biology; chemistry; foreign languages; trigonometry; or other age-appropriate courses as contained in chapter 5 (Curriculum Requirements) of the State Board of Education. Access - Free testing, diplomas with college credit, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - ?

NEW JERSEY: A Compulsory Ages - 6-16 Notification Requirements - None Parental Qualifications - None Format - Child must receive "equivalent" instruction, which means academic, and not social, education. Burden is on state to demonstrate that education is not equivalent, and unless there is compelling evidence that a child is receiving no education at all, the state doesn't interfere. Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None. No testing available through the public schools. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - No oversight, so generic list is, essentially, only a recommendation: U.S. and NJ history, citizenship, civics, geography, safety, physical education. Also recommended, but not required: sexual assault prevention, health. Access - Local decisions on everything. Other Requirements - None NEW MEXICO: C Compulsory Ages - 5-18 Notification Requirements - Annual notarized state-developed form within 30 days of starting, and by April 1 of each subsequent year. No approval requirement. Parental Qualifications - GED or high school diploma Format - None Reporting Requirements - Include with declaration of intent annual calendar of instructional days, immunization records, or statement of religious/conscientious objection. Testing Requirements - None (new law) Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, language arts, math, social studies, science Access - Possible fee for testing, no athletics, restricted access to activities, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - Same attendance as public schools. NEW YORK: F Compulsory Ages - 6-17 (Birthdays determine, not ages. Maximum: 5.75-17.99) Notification Requirements - Annual notice of intent to homeschool by July 1 or within 14 days of starting homeschool. Parental Qualifications - None Format - School at home or in building that meets building codes. Reporting Requirements - Submit complex annual individualized home instruction plan, subject to review and approval by superintendent of schools. Also submit quarterly reports of hours of instruction, description of material covered, grades or written narrative of progress, written explanation of any failure to comply with plan. Failure to submit adequate plan of instruction obligates child to attend public or authorized private school. Maintain attendance records; submit to school district upon request. Testing Requirements - Submit annual commercially published norm-referenced achievement tests, administered at school or at home by certified teacher, by consent of superintendent. Sword of Damocles mark: 33 percent. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Alternative to mandatory testing: In grades 1-4, 6, 8: Written narrative evaluation by certified teacher based on portfolio and interviews. Parent-pay, and by consent of superintendent. Subject Requirements - Extremely detailed, complex scope and sequence set forth by state. Access - Free testing, no athletics, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 180 days/year, with 5 (grades 1-6) or 5.5 (upper grades) hours of instruction per day. NORTH CAROLINA: B+ Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - One-time notice of intent with name of school, name of administrator submitted to state division of nonpublic education. Parental Qualifications - GED or high school diploma Format - None Reporting Requirements - Maintain attendance and immunization records. Testing Requirements - Annual standardized test covering English grammar, reading, spelling, and mathematics. Results may be inspected by state, but need not be submitted. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - None Subject Requirements - None Access - Restricted access to classes, no competitive athletics or activities, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - Nine calendar months/year. NORTH DAKOTA: F Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - Annual notarized statement of intent on state-developed form, 30 days/14 days (?) prior to start of public school term. Additional requirements for autistic children. Parental Qualifications - Bachelor's degree, teacher certification, pass National Teachers' Exam, or high school diploma with weekly monitoring and biannual submission of reports by certified teacher. Format - For high school diplomaed parents, monitoring must continue until child scores above 50th percentile for two consecutive years. Reporting Requirements - Include with declaration of intent proof of identity and immunizations, and a list of planned public school courses or extracurricular activities. Maintain an annual record of courses taken by each student, including copies of academic progress assessments and results of nationally standardized achievement tests. Testing Requirements - Grades 4, 6, 8, and 10. Professional assessment and plan for remediation for scores below 30th percentile. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - None Subject Requirements - Extensive: English, language arts, including reading, composition, creative writing, English grammar, spelling; mathematics; social studies, including U.S. Constitution and U.S. history; government; science, including agriculture; physical education; health, including physiology, hygiene, disease control, the nature and effects of alcohol, tobacco, and narcotics. Access - Free testing, access to classes, athletics, activities, diplomas. Other Requirements - 175 days/year, 4 hours/day.

MICHIGAN: A+ Compulsory Ages - 6-16 Notification Requirements - None Parental Qualifications - None Format - Organized educational program, no registration. (A more restrictive "non-public school" option is available, but it confers no advantages.) Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, spelling, math, science, history, civics, literature, writing, English grammar. Access - Free testing; limited access to classes; other decisions are local. Other Requirements - None MINNESOTA: F Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - Annual notification to local superintendent, by October 1. Parental Qualifications - Teaching license in field and grade taught, passing score on teaching competency exam, or direct supervision by licensed teacher to avoid additional testing requirements. Bachelor's degree or instruction under approved umbrella school to avoid quarterly achievement reports. If none of the above are met, then family is subject to additional testing and reporting requirements. Format - None Reporting Requirements - 1. Include with notification of intent proof of compliance with parental qualification requirements. 2. If parent doesn't meet one of the teacher qualification exemptions, the family must also submit quarterly achievement reports. 3. Undergo either an annual home visit from superintendent, or refuse home visit and submit, in lieu of visit, documentation (class schedules, copies of materials used for instruction, and description of method used to assess student achievement indicating that the subjects required are being taught) that demonstrates compliance with the law. Testing Requirements - Annual nationally norm-referenced standardized achievement examination. Children who score below the 30th percentile, or who score a full grade below children of the same age must undergo an evaluation for learning problems. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Parents who don't meet teaching qualifications must additionally assess their children in subject areas not covered by the test. Subject Requirements - Extensive: Reading, writing, literature, fine arts, math, science, history, geography, government, health, physical education. Access - Fee for testing; access to classes; no access to daytime activities; other decisions local. Other Requirements - None MISSISSIPPI: B+ Compulsory Ages - 6-17 Notification Requirements - Annual "certificate card" to school attendance officer. No waiting period. Parental Qualifications - None Format - None Reporting Requirements - Include with "certificate card" a simple description of the type of education children are receiving. Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - None Access - No access to anything. Other Requirements - Whatever "number of days that each [home] school shall require for promotion from grade to grade." MISSOURI: C+ Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - None required. Law contains implied threat of investigation unless parents submit notice of intent within 30 days of establishment and on Sept. 1 each year thereafter. Parental Qualifications - None Format - No more than four children are unrelated, and no receipt of fees, tuition, or other renumeration. Reporting Requirements - Maintain logbook of subjects taught and activities engaged in, portfolio of child's academic progress; or other written, credible evidence equivalent to above. Submission of logbook is a defense to charges of educational neglect. Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, math, social studies, language arts, science. Access - Fee for testing, qualified access to classes, no materials access, regulated access to athletics and activities. Other Requirements - 1,000 hours/year; at least 600 hours in the five required subjects; 400 of these 600 hours must occur at "the regular homeschool location." MONTANA: B Compulsory Ages - 7-16 (or completion of eighth grade, if later) Notification Requirements - Annual notice of intent filed with the county superintendent. Parental Qualifications - None Format - None Reporting Requirements - Maintain attendance and immunization records; must be available for inspection by county superintendent upon request. Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Same "basic instructional program" as the public schools. Access - Free testing, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 180 days/ year, 4 hours/day for grades 1-3 and 6 hours/day for grades 4-12 NEBRASKA: C- Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - One-time notice of intent to homeschool, 30 days in advance of starting. Annual statement of exception based on religious beliefs or interference with parental decisions. Parental Qualifications - None for parents; hired tutor must meet unspecified qualifications. Format - Private school, no registration. Reporting Requirements - Birth certificate for first year. Annual proof that home meets health, fire, and safety standards; that child has met attendance requirements; that program meets educational standards. Annual statement that parents believe individuals monitoring program are qualified. Testing Requirements - None enforced, though law gives board of education a testing and visitation option. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Generic: Language arts, math, science, social studies, health. Access - No athletics, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - Elementary: 1,032 hours/year; secondary: 1,080 hours/year. Compliance with immunization requirements. NEVADA: C- Compulsory Ages - 7-17 Notification Requirements - Annual request for exemption. Parental Qualifications - Teacher certification, or use of approved correspondence course, or consultation with licensed teacher or three-year homeschooling veteran, or waiver. Qualification requirements waived if child makes "reasonable educational progress in his educational plan" for one year. Format - None Reporting Requirements - Include with request for exemption: Written evidence of teacher qualifications; educational plan including learning goals, teaching methods, and a description of the instructional materials; calendar; typical weekly instructional schedule; birth certificate or other proof of identity. Testing Requirements - None (as of Sept. 1997) Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Equivalent instruction of the kind and amount approved by the state board of education, including U.S. and Nevada constitutions Access - Free testing, qualified access to classes, no athletics, but activities are open. Other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 180 days/year; grades 1 and 2: 240 minutes/day; grades 3-6: 300 minutes/day; grades 7-12:330 minutes/day. NEW HAMPSHIRE: F Compulsory Ages - 6-16 Notification Requirements - One-time notice of intent filed with private school principal, the state commissioner of education, or the local superintendent within 30 days of withdrawing from public school. Parental Qualifications - None Format - Planned and supervised instructional and related educational activities, including a curriculum and instruction. May instruct own children only by agreement of educational authorities. Reporting Requirements - Include with notice of intent list of the subjects to be taught, along with name of an established correspondence school or commercial curriculum provider, if any; table of contents or other material that outlines the scope of and instructional sequence for each subject, and a list of textbooks or other instructional materials used. Maintain, for two years after instruction, a portfolio of records and materials, including a log of reading materials used, samples of writings, worksheets, workbooks, or creative materials used or developed by the child. Testing Requirements - Annual standardized test or state student assessment test with SofD cutoff of 40 percent. Results are submitted to state. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - In lieu of test, submit annual academic assessment by certified teacher or other agreeable means. Subject Requirements - Extensive: Science, math, language, government, history, health, reading, writing, spelling, constitutional history of New Hampshire and the United States, art and music appreciation. Access - Free testing, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - None

KANSAS: A- Compulsory Ages - 7-18 Notification Requirements - Register name and address of school. No approval required. Parental Qualifications - Competence (Board may not define or evaluate competence.) Format - Operate as a nonaccredited private school. (Alternatives: Operate as satellite of an accredited private school, or for high school grades, obtain religious exemption from state board of education.) Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - None (alternative forms may require particular subjects). Access - All decisions are local. Other Requirements - 186 days/year or 1,116 hours/year; 1,086 hours for senior year. KENTUCKY: B+ Compulsory Ages - 6-16 Notification Requirements - Annual notice to local school board. Parental Qualifications - None Format - Qualify as a private school. No approval necessary. Reporting Requirements - Maintain, but do not submit, attendance register and scholarship reports. Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, writing, spelling, grammar, history, mathematics, civics Access - All decisions are local. Other Requirements - 185 days/year, or the equivalent of 175 six-hour days. LOUISIANA: B Compulsory Ages - 7-17 Notification Requirements - Annual notice of intent to state department of education within 30 days. Parental Qualifications - None Format - Least-restrictive format: Operate as a private school, which requires application and approval. (Alternatively, operate under the more restrictive option of obtaining approval as a homeschool from board of education.) Reporting Requirements - Annual attendance report. (Under board of education option, must show "satisfactory" evidence of public school equivalency.) Testing Requirements - None, as private school. (Under board-approval option, testing may be required to show equivalency.) Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Meets and maintains a sustained curriculum or specialized course of study of quality at least equal to that prescribed for similar public schools, including the Declaration of Independence and the Federalist Papers. Access - Free testing, but no athletics. Other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 180 days/year. MAINE: C+ Compulsory Ages - 7-17 Notification Requirements - Under private school option: Annual notification to state department of education. (Homeschool option requires extensive state-developed 'application' to two offices at least two months prior to start of each homeschool year. Application must be approved by commissioner prior to beginning homeschool program. Denied applications must be resubmitted within deadlines, and are reviewed by state-level advisory board.) Parental Qualifications - Teacher certification, or designation as "Tutor" with assistance from certified teacher, public school, approved home instruction program, or approved homeschool support group. Format - Least-restrictive format (operation as a nonapproved private school) requires teaching at least two unrelated students. (Parents who want to teach their own children without affiliating with an organization must obtain approval from the local school board and the commissioner of the state department of education.) Reporting Requirements - None. (Under homeschool option, annual declaration of intent must include thorough plan of instruction. Maintain extensive records.) Testing Requirements - None. (Homeschool option requires annual standardized test.) Other Assessments Required/Accepted - May submit annual academic assessment by certified teacher in lieu of test. Subject Requirements - Extensive list: English, language arts, math, science, social studies, physical and health education, library skills, fine arts, Maine studies (in one grade between 6 and 12), computer proficiency (one grade between grades 7 and 12). Access - May be a fee for testing, qualified access to classes, full access to athletics and activities. Other Requirements - 175 days/year. Special education students subject to additional considerations. MARYLAND: F Compulsory Ages - 5-16 (exemption to age 6 available) Notification Requirements - One-time notice of intent indicating which option family is using (portfolio review or instruction through approved correspondence or church school). Parental Qualifications - None Format - Most flexible - but highly intrusive - option: Establish a qualifying home school. (Other options are less intrusive, but require instruction through a bona fide church school or through state-approved nonpublic school or correspondence course.) Reporting Requirements - Maintain a portfolio of educational materials, subject to review. Testing Requirements - None. (Church or correspondence schools may impose testing requirements.) Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Mandatory portfolio reviews up to three times per year. SofD standard: Superintendent determination that student is not receiving regular, thorough instruction in conformity with regulations. (Not required under church/correspondence school option.) Subject Requirements - Regulated list: "Regular, thorough instruction" in the same subjects as the public schools, including English, math, science, social studies, art, music, health, physical education. (Under church/correspondence option: Requirements prescribed by program.) Access - Free testing, possible diploma, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - "Sufficient duration to implement the instructional program." MASSACHUSETTS: F Compulsory Ages - 6-16 Notification Requirements - Make complex application, and obtain advance approval from local school committee or superintendent. Each locality sets its own standards and may require annual notice. Failure to obtain approval obligates child to attend public school. Parental Qualifications - School committee may examine the competency of the parents to teach their children, but may not require certification, advanced degrees, or college degrees. Format - None Reporting Requirements - The school committee must have access to textbooks and lesson plans, but "only to determine the types of subjects to be taught and the grade level of the instruction for comparison purposes with the curriculum of the public schools." Neither the school committee nor the superintendent may dictate "the manner in which the subjects will be taught." Testing Requirements - Annual standardized test administered by a "neutral party." Other Assessments Required/Accepted - In lieu of testing, submit an annual "progress report" or a home visit. Parent chooses method of assessment. Requirements for progress report vary from district to district. Subject Requirements - Extensive: Reading, writing, English language and grammar, geography, arithmetic, drawing, music, history, U.S. constitution, citizenship, health (including CPR), physical education, good behavior. Access - No access to testing, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - Committee may inquire about number of hours and days. (Public schools require 180 days/year, 900 hours/year at elementary level and 990 hours/year at secondary level.)

DELAWARE: C Compulsory Ages - 5-16 (may delay start with consent of school) Notification Requirements - Homeschool organizations must register with the department of education. Parental Qualifications - None Format - Three options: (1) Affiliate with homeschool organization, or (2) establish homeschool to satisfaction of local superintendent and board of education, or (3) report to state DofE as a private school. Reporting Requirements - Provide annual report of enrollment, student ages, and attendance. Separately, submit annual enrollment form. Testing Requirements - Testing may be required under option 2, but is not required of private schools. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - None Subject Requirements - Same as public schools. Access - No access to testings, athletics available only with more than half-time enrollment. Other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 180 days/year DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA: B Compulsory Ages - 5-18 (serious debate contemplates lowering compulsory age) Notification Requirements - None, unless removing child from public school. Parental Qualifications - None Format - Private instruction not affiliated with educational institution. Reporting Requirements - Maintain accurate record of attendance. Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - None Access - Free testing, no other access. Other Requirements - While public schools are in session. FLORIDA: C- Compulsory Ages - 6-16 Notification Requirements - One-time minimal notice of intent. Parental Qualifications - None Format - None Reporting Requirements - Submit portfolio with 15 days' written notice. Maintain portfolio of records and materials (log of texts and sample work sheets) for two years. Testing Requirements - Annual standardized test administered by certified teacher. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - In lieu of test, evaluation by certified teacher or licensed psychologist, or by other mutually agreed tool. Subject Requirements - None Access - FCAT test free, other testing restricted; interscholastic extracurricular access guaranteed; other decisions are local Other Requirements - None GEORGIA: D+ Compulsory Ages - 6-16 Notification Requirements - Annual declaration of intent on school-district form within 30 days of beginning, and by Sept. 1 in subsequent years. Parental Qualifications - Parent: High school diploma. Tutor, if any, must have bachelor's degree. Format - Own children only. Reporting Requirements - Monthly attendance forms sent to superintendent. Maintain test results for three years. Testing Requirements - Nationally standardized tests in grades 3, 6, 9, and 12. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science Access - No access to testing, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 180 days/year; 4/5 hours/day. Children out of home without written "excuse" are subject to arrest by truant officer. HAWAII: D Compulsory Ages - 6-18 Notification Requirements - Simple declaration of intent to local school principal. Resubmit at junior high and high school entrance ages. Parental Qualifications - None (Alternate education program requires bachelor's degree.) Format - Most flexible operation: Operate a home school. Less flexible option: Superintendent-approved appropriate alternative educational program. Reporting Requirements - Maintain record of planned, structured curriculum, with complex assessment and bibliographical requirements. Testing Requirements - School-paid testing in grades 3, 6, 8, and 10. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Private testing may be used in the alternative to school-paid testing. Submit mandatory annual progress report, including assessment (test, written evaluation or portfolio). Subject Requirements - Suggested sequence, not mandated. Access - Open access to college entrance exams. Other Requirements - None IDAHO: A- Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - None Parental Qualifications - None Format - Child must be "comparably instructed." Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Same as public schools. Access - Free testing, access to classes, qualified access to athletics and activities; other decisions are local. Other Requirements - Same attendance as public schools. ILLINOIS: A+ Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - None Parental Qualifications - None Format - Private school, no registration. Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - Extensive: Language arts, biological and physical sciences, math, social sciences, fine arts, health and physical development, honesty, justice, kindness, moral courage Access - Access to classes, restricted access to athletics and activities. Other decisions are local. Other Requirements - Suggested: 176 days/year. INDIANA: B Compulsory Ages - 7-18 Notification Requirements - One-time enrollment report, available online. Parental Qualifications - None Format -Private school, no registration. Reporting Requirements - Maintain attendance records, which must be submitted upon request. Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - "Equivalent" instruction. Access - May be a fee for testing, qualified access to classes, concerns over liability issues in athletics and activities. Other Requirements - 180 days/year. IOWA: B- Compulsory Ages - 6-16 Notification Requirements - Annual "Competent Private Instruction Report Form"; 2 copies to local school district by 1st day of school or within 14 days of withdrawal from school. Parental Qualifications - None (Supervised and tutoring options require teaching license.) Format - Homeschool parent is most flexible. Alternatives (supervision by licensed teacher, or instruction by private tutor) are more restrictive. Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - Annual standardized test. (No testing requirement for supervised or tutoring options.) Other Assessments Required/Accepted - In lieu of test, may submit portfolio for review. Subject Requirements - None Access - Free testing with dual enrollment, but children can dual enroll for anything - even recess. Athletics and activities are guaranteed access. Local decision on diplomas. Other Requirements - 148 days/year

There were actually three different lists I referenced. Well, the second one was based on the HSLDA site, so it was basically rephrasing the third list. I noticed the second/third list pretty much reiterated the book's list. I actually appreciated how the book broke down by different categories how each state regulated homeschooling. I guess it was the bird's eye view, and then when I wanted more information about a particular state I could do a little more research on it. Since this is outdated anyway, I thought it might be useful to see how they broke it down in order to assign each state a grade. You can check out the HSLDA site or the NHEN site to read more about each state's homeschool laws. ALABAMA - A Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - One-time enrollment form to local superintendent. Parental Qualifications - None Format - Structure as a "church school" is most flexible, and "church" is not defined by law. Private school and tutoring options are heavily regulated. Reporting Requirements - Church school must maintain, but not submit, attendance records. Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - N/A Subject Requirements - None for church schools; physical education in all other schools. Access - Local decision, but concerns over "liability" issues make access unlikely. Other Requirements: None ALASKA: A+ Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - None Parental Qualifications - None Format - None. Restrictive options are available ... but why? Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - None Subject Requirements - None Access - Yes to classes, but restrictions on athletics and extracurricular. Other Requirements - None ARIZONA: A Compulsory Ages - 6-16, or 8-16 with affidavit at 6. Notification Requirements - One-time affidavit of intent with county school superintendent within 30 days of beginning homeschool. Parental Qualifications - None Format - Homeschool conducted by custodial parent/guardian or instruction provided primarily in the home. Private school is more restrictive. Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - None Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies, science. Access - Guaranteed access to interscholastic athletics, but no access to materials. Other decisions are local. Other Requirements - None ARKANSAS: C+ Compulsory Ages - 5-17 (may be excused from kindergarten with state-provided form to school district) Notification Requirements - Annual letter of intent and signed waiver filed with local superintendent. 14-day waiting period for students withdrawing from public school. Further restrictions for students under disciplinary action. First letter must be delivered in person. Parental Qualifications - None Format - None Reporting Requirements - None Testing Requirements - Grades 5, 7, and 10, through school or through one of 15 educational cooperatives. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - By approval Subject Requirements - None Access - Free testing available, diplomas available for PS'ing senior year, other access is a local decision Other Requirements - None CALIFORNIA: C Compulsory Ages - 6-18 Notification Requirements - Under School-in-Private-Home option, parent must file annual R-4 affidavit with state superintendent of public instruction. Records become public. Parental Qualifications - Must be "capable" of teaching. Formal credentialing required under tutor option only. Format - Most flexible option: Register as a school in a private home. More restrictive or expensive options: Enroll in a public, private, or charter school's independent study program; or have child tutored by a credentialed teacher. Reporting Requirements - Maintain attendance records, records of course of study for each child, and immunization records or waivers. Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - None Subject Requirements - Generic: Instruction in "the several branches of study required to be taught in the public schools" and in the English language. Access - Hostile treatment of homeschoolers neutralizes what looks like open access. Other Requirements - None COLORADO: D+ Compulsory Ages - 7-16 Notification Requirements - Annual declaration of intent. (First notice must be submited 14 days prior to beginning homeschool. Habitual truants must provide written description of curricula before approval to homeschool.) Parental Qualifications - None. (Private tutor option requires teacher certification.) Format - Instruction by parent or adult relative. Alternative formats (enrolling in a private school that allows home instruction, or using a private tutor) are more expensive and/or more restrictive. Reporting Requirements - Submit annual attendance records, plus test or evaluation results to public school or independent or parochial school. Maintain permanent academic records of attendance, test/evaluation results, and immunization records. Testing Requirements - Grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11. Children scoring at or below 13th percentile must enroll in public/independent parochial school. Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Submit evaluation by qualified person in lieu of test. Qualification is lax: A certified teacher, a licensed psychologist, a teacher employed by a Colorado private school, or a person with a graduate degree in education. Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, writing, speaking, math, history, civics, literature, science, the U.S. Constitution. Access - Open access to athletics and activities, and diplomas are available, but testing may involve a fee. Other Requirements - 172 days/year, 4 hours/day. CONNECTICUT: D Compulsory Ages - 5-18 (may opt out to age 7 and at age 16 with annual personal appearance and signed declaration) Notification Requirements - Technically none, but State Department of Education requires annual notice of intent, within 10 days of beginning to homeschool. Parental Qualifications - None Format - None Reporting Requirements - Include in notice of intent: subjects to be taught, calendar, and method of assessment. Testing Requirements - None Other Assessments Required/Accepted - Mandatory annual submission of portfolio for evaluation. Subject Requirements - Generic: Reading, writing, spelling, English, grammar, geography, arithmetic, U.S. history, citizenship (including study of town, state and federal governments). Access - No access to testing, other decisions are local. Other Requirements - 180 days/year

Oh, sorry, I posted this on the other board and edited it to add a different link, but I forgot to come back and do the same for this one. Here's a link to a bunch of questions, and there are a few that discuss the Iowa and Stanford. Frequently Asked Questions

I'm sorry you're suffering. I don't know much about migraines, but after I read this book I understood a little more. It helped me with my headaches. I still get them, but now I know more about dealing with them. I can't remember who recommended this book, but I know it was someone on these boards. Thank you again, whoever you are! (I'm terrible with names. That's why I need all the word association and visual cues to help with my memory.) Anyway, it sounds like you've been dealing with this for quite a while and you've probably read about migraines ad nauseam, but in case you haven't here it is: Heal Your Headache Feel better soon!

I did this a while ago, so I'll copy and paste. I've seen some tests discussed on the board before, and I was trying to figure out the differences between them and decide which one to give to my dc. I thought I'd share this in the hopes that it might help someone else. I appreciated having this information summarized and compiled for me. This site discusses the five most commonly used tests. I don't know if that's nationwide or just within their state, but I thought it was helpful. Most Common Standardized Achievement Tests We've never tested before and are not required to do so, but I'd like to this year. I was going to go with the CAT (California Achievement Test) and couldn't decide between the Complete Battery or the Survey. But after reading this I decided to go with the Iowa Basic (ITBS). You can order the Iowa Basic tests from Piedmont Education Services by April 17th for test and scoring during Feb 27- June 17, 2006. It's $38 per test, and a bachelor's degree is required to administer this test. Iowa Basic (ITBS) from Piedmont Education Services Here are a couple of links that list several different places to order tests. Testing Services Standardized Achievement Test Suppliers When I recently posted about this, there was a discussion about which tests different people preferred. I went on the hunt again and found this article: Iowa vs. Stanford Test Comparison (broken link) Frequently Asked Questions Hope this is helpful!

Ay-yi-yi! It's just for fun and whatever your mood is at the time, hey? You don't have to read into it so much, kwim? Yes, I know the Reese Witherspoon character is an evil little witch, but it had nothing to do with my using that picture for roll call. If I remember correctly, I literally put "peekaboo" in the search engine when I was googling images. I guess I coulda used one of the cute little kiddies that was playing peekaboo, but I liked the Reese picture more. So sue me. And I enjoy seeing the different pictures and names people come up with. What can I say? I like a little zest in my life. :) And if we're going to do character analysis on each picture, what does Michelle Pfeiffer's Catwoman portray? The anti-hero, yes? I just read a quick blurb about how the catwoman started out in the Batman comics. I think she started out as an amnesiac flight attendant turned criminal and later on she morphed into a cat-loving prostitute/dominatrix. Uhhhmmmm, who cares, really? It's kind of like art or literature ... what do you get out of it and how do you interpret it? So, Peek, maybe you can use them to convey your mood every now and then. When you feel catty, use Catwoman. And when you feel a little playful, use the carnivale/masquerade pic. Just please ... have fun! :tongue_smilie:

Once again, we're looking at moving and I'm scrambling trying to find out about the homeschooling laws and requirements in various states. The states we're focusing on are Nevada, New Mexico, and Maryland. But I also thought this might come in handy to anybody else who might be looking at moving. I liked this simple and easy-to-read chart found in the appendix of Homeschooling Your Child Step-by-Step, but it's probably out-of-date (May 2002). (A+) Alaska, Illinois, Michigan (A) Alabama, Arizona, New Jersey, Wyoming (A-) Idaho, Kansas, Texas (B+) Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Utah (B) District of Columbia, Indiana, Louisiana, Montana, Oklahoma (B-) Iowa, Washington, Wisconsin (C+) Arkansas, Maine, Missouri © California, Delaware, New Mexico, South Carolina (C-) Florida, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon (D+) Colorado, Georgia (D) Connecticut, Hawaii, Vermont (D-) Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, West Virginia (F) Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia There's actually a lot more information in that section because it breaks down why they rated each state they way they did. Their criteria dealt with each state's laws regarding notification and reporting requirements, parental qualification requirements, school format, testing, subjects required, immunization and attendance records, portfolios, compulsory education ages, etc. Basically, the more requirements and regulations each state had for homeschoolers decreased its grade. I think whether or not schools allowed sports participation and partial enrollment was factored in also. Anyway, I've also been looking online and found this list: Least Restrictive States - Alaska, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Texas Most Restrictive States - Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia Best and Worst States for Homeschoolers The states were color-coded at the HSLDA site, so I inserted the grade equivalents: (A) Alaska, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Texas (B) Alabama, Arizona, California, Delaware, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, District of Columbia, Wisconsin, Wyoming © Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia (D) Massachusetts, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont HSLDA Home School Laws How accurate would you say this information is and what would you add or change? Thanks for your help!

I used the military base's guidelines: Youth Supervision Guidelines Note: The ages specified are based on the average child's ability to demonstrate age-appropriate behavior. Children who do not consistently demonstrate age-appropriate behavior should not be given the same degree of self-management responsibilities. In all instances below where a yes is indicated, the parent is responsible for using reasonable judgment and for any incident or mishap (not considered preventable), which occurs. Left without sitter in quarters for two hours or less: Newborn through age 4 - no Age 5 through age 6 - no Age 7 through age 9 - no Age 10 through age 11 - Yes; with ready access (phone number to an adult supervisor)*/*** Age 12 through age 14 - yes Age 15 through high school graduation - yes Left without sitter in quarters for more than two hours: Newborn through age 4 - no Age 5 through age 6 - no; except at age 6 may walk to and from school Age 7 through age 9 - no; except may walk to and from school Age 10 through age 11 - no for 10 yr olds; 11 yr olds only with access to adult assistance for no more than 2 hours Age 12 through age 14 - yes during daytime hours before curfew; NO after curfew Age 15 through high school graduation - yes Left alone overnight: Newborn through age 4 - no Age 5 through age 6 - no Age 7 through age 9 - no Age 10 through age 11 - no Age 12 through age 14 - no, children 15 or freshmen in high school may be left alone overnight; with access to adult supervision; sponsor must be in local area.*** Age 15 through high school graduation - yes; minors age 16 and older may be left alone for short TDYs or leaves, not to exceed 5 consecutive days. These minors must have some type of adult supervision available to make periodic checks. Outside unattended during daylight hours (to include playing): Newborn through age 4 - no Age 5 through age 6 - yes; playground or yard with immediate access (visual sight or hearing distance) to adult supervision*** Age 7 through age 9 - yes; with access to adult supervision*** Age 10 through age 11 - yes Age 12 through age 14 - yes Age 15 through high school graduation - yes Left in car unattended: Newborn through age 4 - no Age 5 through age 6 - no Age 7 through age 9 - yes; except in hot weather; keys removed and hand brake applied; 5 minutes maximum in hot weather, 15 in other weather, adult within sight Age 10 through age 11 - yes; keys removed and hand brake applied Age 12 through age 14 - yes Age 15 through high school graduation - yes Child sit siblings: Newborn through age 4 - no Age 5 through age 6 - no Age 7 through age 9 - no Age 10 through age 11 - yes for a short span of time; 11 years old or sixth grade minimum have the minimum amount of time of two (2) hours*/** Age 12 through age 14 - yes* Age 15 through high school graduation - yes** Child sit others: Newborn through age 4 - no Age 5 through age 6 - no Age 7 through age 9 - no Age 10 through age 11 - no Age 12 through age 14 - yes** 12 years of age or 7th grade minimum*** Age 15 through high school graduation - yes** * Home-alone training by youth center or other source required ** Red Cross baby-sitting training or equivalent required *** Adult supervision is defined as someone who has or assumes responsibility for the child, e.g., parent, guardian, care provider, friend Curfew 2200 - 0600 Sunday through Thursday and from 2230 - 0600 on Friday, Saturday and holidays. During the curfew period, minor family members (under age 18) are not allowed away from their place of residence unless accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult sponsor. November 2003

I've seen some tests discussed on the board before, and I was trying to figure out the differences between them and decide which one to give to my dc. I thought I'd share this in the hopes that it might help someone else. I appreciated having this information summarized and compiled for me. This site discusses the five most commonly used tests. I don't know if that's nationwide or just within their state, but I thought it was helpful. Most Common Standardized Achievement Tests We've never tested before and are not required to do so, but I'd like to this year. I was going to go with the CAT (California Achievement Test) and couldn't decide between the Complete Battery or the Survey. But after reading this I decided to go with the Iowa Basic (ITBS). You can order the Iowa Basic tests from Piedmont Education Services by April 17th for test and scoring during Feb 27- June 17, 2006. It's $38 per test, and a bachelor's degree is required to administer this test. Iowa Basic (ITBS) from Piedmont Education Services Here are a couple of links that list several different places to order tests. Testing Services Standardized Achievement Test Suppliers When I recently posted about this, there was a discussion about which tests different people preferred. I went on the hunt again and found this article: Iowa vs. Stanford Test Comparison Hope this is helpful!

For myself, Les Misérables was my "wakening" or seeing the light experience. I hope you're able to find something that gives you peace of mind.

Thank you for all your responses. You've been very helpful. Hopefully I'll find something the whole family likes. And since y'all were so kind to help out, I thought it'd be fun to find pictures for you. Liz CA Suzanne in ABQ pixelroper RoughCollie percytruffle Beth in Central TX Aubrey SolaMichella Rebel Jedi Mom one l michele orangeblossom

I screen and answer if necessary. Funny thing is dh doesn't think it's right to screen. He figures if you're there you should answer it. Maybe it's because he has to be available for his work calls. He always answers if he's here and he always answers his cell.

Ohhh, thanks for the reminder. I keep adding to my list of movies I'd like to watch once we start Netflix. I read the book quite a while ago. Guess I should've watched the movie sooner.

We're looking at new living room sets and wondering whether or not to go leather. We have two dogs and two cats. Our dogs aren't allowed on the furniture, but the cats are and they're not declawed. They don't scratch on our current living room set, but they do like to sleep on the backs of them. Our dogs don't really shed much, but the cats do. So ... Easy to clean? Easily stained? Easily torn? Cold in the winter? Sticky in the summer? Is it really better for allergy sufferers? Worth it or not? One of my friends loves hers and another says she'd never get leather. How 'bout you?

Oooooookayyyyy! You try that bed thang again, dearie. And now I want to hunt down a different profile pic for you based upon that post. :w00t::w00t:

I've never knitted or quilted anything. :blink: I've never changed a tire or checked the oil in a car. I've never gutted a fish or a deer. I've never played the asphyxiation game or Russian roulette. I've never wished I may or wished I might. I've never done donuts in a parking lot or popped a wheelie on a dirt bike. I've never been to a home school convention. I've never had plastic surgery or broken any bones. I've never figured out where Waldo was or where's the beef. I've never been to Africa, Antarctica, Australia or South America. I've never been in a coma or clinically dead. I've never swum with a dolphin or gone skinny-dipping. I've never read Moby Dick. I've never been on a cruise or airborne in a helicopter. I've never scuba dived, sky dived or bungee jumped.