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FAQs



Q:

How much does it cost to join HCHSA?

A:

The annual dues are $32.00 per year, July 1 to June 30. Payments are not prorated. Payment can be made online or you may make arrangements to pay with a check by emailing HCHSAtreasurer@gmail.com.

The only major credit card we do NOT accept is American Express. Our preferred payment method is Debit / ACH.

Q:

Where can I get information on what is legally required to homeschool my child in the state of Texas?

A:

Rather than re-invent the wheel, it's easiest if you visit the Home School Legal Defense Association or the Texas Home School Coalition where every possible angle is covered. 

In order to be a legitimate home school, you must have a curriculum which teaches reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics and a study of good citizenship, and you must pursue that curriculum in a bona fide (not a sham) manner. This curriculum may be obtained from any source and can consist of books, workbooks, other written materials, or materials on an electronic monitor including computer or video screens, or any combination thereof.

Q:

Is there a local support meeting for homeschooling moms?

A:

Yes, we have occasional Moms' Meetings with various themes and topics.

Notice of date, time, and location will be posted on the forum and also on the calendar.

Childcare is sometimes available during the meeting, but nursing infants are welcome to attend with mom.

Q:

How do I get started homeschooling?

A:

Home School Legal Defense Association is a non-profit advocacy organization established to defend and advance the constitutional right of parents to direct the education of their children and to protect family freedoms. Through annual memberships, HSLDA is tens of thousands of families united in service together, providing a strong voice when and where needed.

Visit the Texas Home School Coalition site for information about getting started on your homeschool adventrue http://www.thsc.org/Getting_Started/default.asp

Various topics are coverd in the FAQ including withdrawing your child from public school with sample letters, choosing a curriculum, and state requirements.

The San Antonio Home Education website has a great FAQ section for first time homeschoolers.

Q:

How many days per year must we have school?

A:

The Texas Education Code requires that public schools meet 180 days per year; public school students must attend 170 days/year. This applies to public schools only. Home schools in Texas are private schools, and the state of Texas does not regulate the number of days per year that private schools must be in session or the number of days a student must attend.

Q:

What about testing my child?

A:

Although the state of Texas does not require testing of home school students, many parents give their children annual tests using nationally-normed achievement tests.

Watch the forum on "Standardized Testing" for information on upcoming testing opportunities in our area.

Q:

If I have paid the association dues doesn't that cover the co-op fees?

A:

No, to participate in the co-op you must be a part of the association which requires annual dues. This gives you access to the website, contact information, forum communication, ability to attend field trips and additional activities.  The co-op is above and beyond basic membership requiring additional semester fees.