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Category Archives: High School

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Mapping Out the High School Years – Examples of High School Courses

Examples of High School Courses

Core Courses

College Prep

Examples of Possible Courses

English4 creditsGrammar/Composition, American Lit, British Lit, World Lit, Creative Writing, Speech/Communication, Journalism, Debate , AP courses
History/Social Sciences3-4 creditsWorld History, American History, Government, Economics, Geography, Hawaiian History, Political Science, Sociology, Psychology, Constitutional Law, AP courses
Math3-4 creditsAlgebra I, II, III, Geometry, Trigonometry, Analytic Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Statistics, AP courses
Science/Labs3-4 creditsEarth Science, Physical Science,Biology with lab, Chemistry with lab, Physics with lab, Anatomy, Microbiology, AP courses
Foreign Language3-4 creditsFrench, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, German, Latin, etc.
(credits should be in a single langauge)
Physical Education
Health
1-2 creditsNumerous options
Fine Arts1-2 creditsArt (Painting, Drawing, Ceramics), Music (Band, Orchestra, Voice, Piano), Drama, Photography
Elective Courses5 creditsCPR, Financial Management, Entreprenuership, Computer Science, Sign Language, Art History and Appreciation, Home Economics, Bible doctrine, Worldview, Church History, Logic/Rhetoric, JROTC

High School – Next Step: From Grades to Grade Point Average


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Mapping Out the High School Years

Mapping Out the High School Years

It’s natural to have some concerns about homeschooling through high school. After all, this may be the last formal years of schooling at home. Praise the Lord, we have a mighty God. He has provided for you and will continue to provide for His people. He is a good and faithful God.

Psalm 16:8 says, “I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.”

First, take time to pray

Ask the Lord for wisdom as you and your teen prepare for high school. Trust Him to provide and even fill in the gaps. Include your teen in the discussion. Here are some things to consider.\

What knowledge and skills do I want my teen to have upon graduating from high school?

Granted there are the academic skills in writing, computation, logic, communication, research, bible study. Just as valuable are the non-academic skills such as CPR, financial management, home economics, computer skills, time management, study skills. The list is not exhaustive because learning is for a lifetime.

What values do I want my adult children to live by? What principles should govern their decision making? What character traits do I want to see in my teen? How best to instill these principles and develop these traits?

As Christian parents, we desire foremost that our children trust Jesus Christ as their Savior and commit their lives to obey and serve Him. We desire to see fruit in their lives. We can only teach and explain so much; head knowledge must reach the heart and that is the work of the Holy Spirit. We must model Christ before them and pray the Lord does His sanctifying work.

What are my child’s interests and strengths?

What does he enjoy doing or reading or even talking about? How does she spend her leisure time?

Sometimes interests and strengths go hand in hand.

  • Does your child whip through math lessons? You may want to continue higher level math courses and consider a future in engineering or accounting.
  • Does your teen have an eye for design? Consider art classes or mentoring with a graphic artist or taking special classes.
  • Are you sometimes exasperated with your child because of his argumentation skills; perhaps speech and debate should be one of his electives.
  • If your teen has started a home business or is interested in doing so, consider mentoring with a businessman or taking an accounting course?
  • If your child has no definite interests – which is not uncommon for a 14 or 15 year old – include the basic courses to provide a good foundation for launching off in different directions. Let your teen to do volunteer work to explore different fields – it may spark an interest.

What are some areas of weakness?

Weaknesses are not always academic. Perhaps it’s a character trait or related to time management or communication skills, or study and problem solving skills.

Whatever the situation, determine if this is something that needs to be addressed and if so, put together a plan.

And the big question, what are my teen’s post high school goals?

Although many teens are not sure what their future plans are, maybe your teen has some interest in the …

Military

It is a worthy endeavor to serve our country and protect the freedoms of our nation.

In 2012 and 2014, Congress amended the National Defense Authorization Act, which clarifies that homeschoolers may enlist in any branch of the military – Army, Navy, Air Force, National Guard, Marines, or Coast Guard – just like any graduate from a public or private school.

If your child plans to enlist, the homeschool graduate must

  • Show verification of compliance with state homeschool law in Hawaii, i.e. the Notice of Intent or the DOE Form 4140.
  • Have a high school diploma issued by the parent; DO NOT take the GED or get an online diploma.
  • Submit a high school transcript from the homeschool – curriculum should parallel the traditional high school curriculum.
  • Be homeschooled for the final 9 months of the academic year.
  • Please verify this information with the recruiter.

In planning the high school years:

  • Plan a strong academic program, reflected in the high school transcript.
  • Keep good records.
  • Participate in extracurricular activities, e.g. sports, speech and debate clubs, Civil Air Patrol, Naval Sea Cadets, Junior ROTC, etc. community service, volunteer work, leadership programs.
  • Maintain good health and physical fitness.
  • Develop and demonstrate good character – leadership, responsibility, respect for authority, discipline.

Workforce

Perhaps your high schooler is interested in entering the workforce whether in the public marketplace or from the home. Take some time with your teen to explore different fields based on strengths and interests.

  • Consider career testing.
  • Google jobs that require a high school diploma but not a college degree.
  • Research what training, certification, or licensing is required. Although a four year college degree may not be required, certification or licensing requirements may still be needed to run a child care business, to become a doula or a massage therapist, restaurant cook, or insurance agent, etc. The list is endless.
  • Be sure to look into Hawaii’s state law regarding owning a small business.

For the high school years,

  • Consider a high school plan with the core academic subjects.
  • Keep good records.
  • Electives could focus around areas of interest and other life skills – computer skills, communication skills, resume writing, job interview, etc.

College

College is a common path for many high school students. But it does not have to be a traditional college path. College does not have to be in the form of a brick and mortar education; you may want to consider distance learning. Your high schooler can also begin at a two year community college (even while in high school) before transferring to a four year degree program.

When mapping out the high school years,

  • Plan a strong academic program.
  • Keep good records.
  • Participate in extracurricular activities, e.g. sports, speech and debate clubs, Civil Air Patrol, Naval Sea Cadets, Junior ROTC, etc. community service, volunteer work, leadership programs.
  • Develop and demonstrate good character – leadership, responsibility, respect for authority, discipline.
  • Consider AP or dual enrollment courses (taken at a local college or through distance learning).
  • Continue strong academic classes even during the senior year – don’t slack off.
  • Consider taking classes from an outside source – e.g. community college or online class – so your teen is evaluated by an instructor other than you, the parent.

Investigate colleges

  • If your teen has a particular college in mind, visit their website to learn the number and types of credits required for admission.
  • If you are not sure about which college, begin investigating requirements of different colleges to help determine the number and type of high school courses that should be included in your student’s program.
  • Be aware that some colleges are very academic and your high schooler may need a pretty rigorous high school program. Rigorous means advanced placement courses and college courses and more than the minimum number of credits.
  • If possible, attend a college fair or visit the college.

College entrance exams

  • Be sure to check what exams are required by the college.
  • Visit //www.collegeboard.org/ to learn more about the college entrance exams.

Gap year

Not every child is college bound immediately after high school. Your child may not be academically prepared. Or he may not be spiritually ready. The Lord may have ordained college for your child but it may not be right away.

A gap year can serve to mature a teen. Or use that time for apprenticeship or mentoring. Or even live on the Mainland to establish residency.

If you are interested in gap year options, consider Unbound. Learn how it works by visiting //beunbound.us/ascend/

Final thoughts

Keep in mind your child does not need to graduate high school in 4 years. Many families accelerate and graduate their children early. On the other hand, if your child needs more time, it is okay to take more than four years.

There is not just one way to homeschool through school. The best part is that you can individualize the plan according to your teen’s aptitudes and interests. And you can be flexible because plans change as goals change or become more focused.

Seek the Lord. Spend much time in prayer. As directed in Colossians 3:2, “Set your affections on things above and not on things below.” You will see God’s blessings and faithfulness continually unfold as you pursue His will for you and your teen.

Visit the CHOH website to view “Mapping Out the High School Years – Examples of High School Courses”.

You can also watch the High School and Beyond video recordings under Homeschool 101.

 

Contact CHOH if you have any questions. We are here to serve you.

info@christianhomeschoolersofhawaii.org

High School – Next Step: Mapping Out the High School Years – Examples of High School Courses


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Homeschooling a High Schooler in Hawaii – What Does the Chapter 12 Rule Say?

Homeschooling a High Schooler in Hawaii – What Does the Chapter 12 Rule Say?

Is it legal to homeschool my high schooler?

Yes! Hawaii’s homeschool law states “A parent teaching the parent’s child a home shall be deemed a qualified instructor.” (Section 8-12-19)

Can I issue a diploma for my high schooler?

Yes, you certainly can! You, the parent are the educator.

Is the diploma recognized and accepted?

Yes! Colleges and universities, places of employment, and the military accept a high school diploma earned by a homeschool student!

What is Hawaii’s homeschool law?

Hawaii’s homeschool law falls under Chapter 12 Compulsory Attendance Exceptions, specifically Sections 8-12-1 through 8-12-4 (definitions) and Sections 8-12-13 through 8-12-22. Read the Rule at //christianhomeschoolersofhawaii.org/w/index.php/hawaii-homeschooling-rule/ and be sure to keep a copy on hand.

Notification of intent to homeschool (Section 8-12-13)

Just as you would do so for any other grade, parents must submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) or complete the Department of Education 4140 to homeschool their high school student. The school should acknowledge your NOI or 4140 by sending you the Parent Copy of the 4140; be sure to keep your copy in a safe place. It will prove useful when your student needs to submit proof of homeschooling for employment during school hours, early admission to a college, or enlistment in the military.

Record of curriculum (Section 8-12-15)

The record keeping requirements are no different for your high schooler. Your records should include starting and ending dates, number of hours of instruction, a method used to determine mastery of materials and subjects, and a bibliography of textbooks and other education materials used.

Good records are a must for the high school years, particularly if your teen plans to pursue college or enlist in the military. Even those who decide to enter the work force may need to submit high school records.

Notification of termination of homeschooling (Section 8-12-16)

Section 8-12-16 requires parent to inform the principal if homeschooling is terminated and provide information on alternative educational program.

Testing and progress Reports (Section 8-12-18)

Annual progress reports are still required for the high school years as well. Scores from a nationally normed standardized test are required for grade 10 for high school. Test scores can also be submitted as the annual report for the other grades.

What else do parents need to know?

Sections 8-12-20 and 8-12-21 are high school specific.

“Credits. No course credits (Carnegie units) are granted for time spent being homeschooled.”

“High school diploma for homeschool Children. A homeschooled child who wants to earn a high school diploma from the local public high school shall attend high school for a minimum of three full years and the meet the credit requirements for graduation.”

What does this mean? Simply – the credits, for example, that you assigned your freshman for Algebra 1 or Spanish 1, are not recognized by the DOE. Some courses from a regionally accredited program may be accepted, but you should check with the principal of the school first.

And if, for whatever reason, you decide not to continue homeschooling your high schooler and choose to enroll him into the public school, your child will have to attend the public school for a minimum of three years to receive a diploma from the DOE high school.

CHOH encourages parents to think long term when homeschooling the high school years. Think back on the reasons you chose to homeschool. Perhaps, it was to individualize your child’s education based on his interests, needs or strengths. You may have wanted to teach from a biblical worldview. You believed the home provided a more positive social environment. These are good and valid reasons to continue educating your teen at home through the high school years!

It really is a good thing!

These sections of the homeschool law are actually a good thing. As the parent/teacher, you know your child best. You have the freedom and flexibility to determine the courses and credits for your high schooler without the DOE dictating to you what must be taught, when it is to be taught, how it is to be taught, or how it is to be graded. You are the one who issues a high school diploma for your graduating senior!

What about the Community School for Adults?

Section 8-12-21 also addresses earning a diploma from the Community School for Adults (CSA).

Call your area CSA for particulars because there have been some changes which are not reflected in this section of the Chapter 12 Rule.

And be aware, that if your high schooler plans to enlist in the military, CHOH recommends you put together the high school transcripts and issue a diploma for your senior rather than have him/her take the General Education Development (GED). The GED will place your student at a lower tier for recruiting.

If you have any other questions about the Hawaii’s homeschool law and homeschooling your high schooler, please email CHOH at info@christianhomeschoolersofhawaii.org

Here to serve you,

Christian Homeschoolers of Hawaii

 

High School – Next Step: Mapping Out the High School Years


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Highschool Opportunities

Attention: Parents of Junior High and High School Students

Here are some opportunities you can investigate for your junior high and high school students.

This listing does not constitute an endorsement from Christian Homeschoolers of Hawaii. Parents should prayerfully explore what is appropriate for their child.

 

Eta Sigma Alpha is a National Homeschool Honor Society for high schoolers to recognize and encourage scholarship among homeschooled students.

To achieve this purpose, ESA provides opportunity for leadership development and service. ESA nurtures an intellectual climate that will stimulate the exchange of ideas and ideals, foster scholarship and promote academic excellence.

The Zeta Delta chapter here in Hawaii is a Christian-based honor society that meets once a month for service projects, book club, guest speakers, career testing, and more. Join this dynamic group of positive, motivated, and service-oriented teens in grades 9-12!

See Membership requirements at : etasigmaalpha.com.

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Honolulu Speech & Debate Club

HNL S+D exists to help equip Christian Students with skills in communication, logic and critical thinking in a manner that glorifies God — while demonstrating love, grace, and respect towards others.

Website

//honoluluspeechanddebate.org

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The Punahou School Junior ROTC Magnet Program is open to all homeschool students from 8th to 12th grade. The course meets once weekly during the school year.

The mission of JROTC is to “Motivate Young People to be Better Citizens.” This is an accredited course and students earn .5 general elective credits at Punahou. There is no cost to enroll and more information can be found on //www.punahoujrotc.com/

 

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Ascend

“Most college students sit in lecture halls but Unbound Ascend students create their own case studies. Ascend by Unbound is a project-based education program that challenges students to learn in the real world while building community and gaining essential life skills.

Ascend students are placed into teams of 7-10 where they will encourage and coach each other, learn life and leadership skills, complete their own personal project, and earn college credit. More information about the Ascend experience can be found at beunbound.us/ascend.”

Equip

“If the thought of homeschooling through high school intimidates you, we have good news! Unbound’s Equip program is specially designed to help guide homeschool moms like you through the process of homeschooling through high school.

With Equip, you’ll receive expert coaching from veteran homeschool moms, invaluable resources including webinars and newsletters, and a community of fellow homeschool moms who understand your journey with all its joys and challenges. You can learn more and enroll by going to beunbound.us/equip.”

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Civil Air Patrol is a youth leadership development organization that promotes education and training in the areas of Aerospace Education, Emergency Services, Leadership Development, Physical Fitness and more. Learn more about the cadet programs at //www.gocivilairpatrol.com/

CAP is accessible to youth located throughout the state of Hawaii and the nation in general. Squadrons are located on Kauai, Maui, the Big Island and Oahu. Please check out this link to locate the unit closest to you //hiwg.cap.gov/

Civil Air Patrol is a great resource to those interested in a military career but also has a wide network of professionals that can guide and assist Cadets in any career field of interest. Additionally, CAP is always looking for adult members to join the program and assist in operational or administrative capacities.

 

 

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The world, it seems, is in turmoil. The light we seek is harder to see. In drawing back the clouds to reveal the truth behind, everyone must play a part. The Dialogue Club is an organization striving to play this part well. By producing important, interesting, and moving works of writing, we are improving our world. Word by word, piece by piece, we will add to the drive to preserve and progress the quality of public discourse. There is a place for everyone in this movement. We welcome you to–the Dialogue Club.

 

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Why Homeschool Teens?

Why Homeschool Teens?

When our children reach the high school years, we begin to question whether homeschooling can really provide them with what they need—spiritually, socially, and academically. But homeschooling is effective in high school for the same reasons it is effective in the younger grades. As a matter of fact, homeschooling in high school can yield great dividends in the life of your teen.

Here are 10 reasons why you might want to consider homeschooling your teen.

1. Continue the Family-Building Process

The teen years are a strategic time to cement relationships that last a lifetime. Parents can continue as the primary role models. You can make sure that your teen is instructed and discipled consistently each day with moral training and sound doctrine.

2. Cement Family Relationships

Relationships are the most important thing in family life. When teens are away from home for six-to-eight hours a day, subtle changes begin to erode relationships at home. Divided allegiance or “serving two masters” can shake their foundation. The result is weakened family ties and parental influence.

3. Provide an Excellent Learning Environment

Receiving one-on-one instruction is the most effective way to learn. At home, academics have priority, and there are no classroom distractions. Conversely, studies show that barely one third of the school day in traditional high schools is dedicated to academics.

4. Individualize Education Based on Needs

You can customize your teen’s education to provide motivating opportunities to develop gifts and abilities. In areas of academic weakness, you can provide extra time and help. No classroom setting can offer this consistent and loving support.

5. Accelerate Academic Progress

Many homeschooled children are academically ready to do college-level work between the ages of 14 and 16. Additionally, researchers have found that age/grade isolation or segregation actually inhibits socialization. Available data demonstrates that homeschooled children are ahead of their public school counterparts in maturity, socialization, and vocabulary development.

6. Have Direct Influence over Peer Relationships

Homeschooling allows parents to fulfill their God-given responsibility to oversee the choices and amount of time spent outside the family. Parents can mentor their teens as they develop the important lifeskills of evaluating and choosing friends, resolving conflicts, and handling romantic relationships.

7. Protect from the Pressure to Conform

Teens feel strong pressure to compromise their standards and personal identity to conform to “the group.” Few are mature enough to withstand constant pressure.

8. Maintain Flexibility

Homeschooling allows great flexibility for family plans and work or service opportunities. Through these venues, teens can gain valuable experience to help prepare them for future adult responsibilities.

9. Create a Safe Learning Environment

News headlines tell us that the presence of drugs and violence are escalating on high school campuses across the country. Homeschooling offers a safe haven for learning, and it provides more opportunity for parents to recognize and lovingly intervene if their child exhibits at-risk behavior.

10. Allow God to Show Himself Strong

2 Chronicles 16:9 says, “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.” Let us look to God and trust Him as our provider during these special years.

 

High School – Next Step: Homeschooling a High Schooler in Hawaii – What Does the Chapter 12 Rule Say?


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Ten Reasons to Home School Your Teenager

1. You can encourage your child to develop a relationship with Christ and grow spiritually. These are crucial years for training your child’s mind in God’s principles.

2. You can continue to build family relationships. If you send your child to school, he will be away from the family for several hours each day. This separation is bound to affect your relationship.

3. You can be sure your child is learning. Studies indicate that public high school students average just two hours and thirteen minutes of academic work each day.[1] I wonder what they do with the rest of the time.

4. You can customize your child’s education to match his talents and interests. You won’t find too many schools that can manage this. Home schooling will allow your teen time to develop talents and pursue interests.

5. Home schooling is the best college preparation since it develops independence and responsibility in the students.

6. You will minimize peer pressure and allow your child the freedom to be himself. Most children in intermediate and high school are unable to withstand the pressure to conform. Give them this time to develop their own convictions. You could possibly save his life.

7. Home schooling can provide the time and flexibility to explore career interests. Have your child participate in apprenticeships and volunteer work.

8. You can be sure your teaching materials match your philosophy. Today, young people in schools are being indoctrinated by textbooks and teachers that promote humanism and evolution, and systematically seek to change the values of the next generation.

9. You will help your teenager mature and develop in a natural environment, learning to relate to people of all ages. The age segregation practiced by most schools actually inhibits socialization.

10. You will have more time to teach your teen life skills.

[1] Christopher Klicka, The Right Choice – Home Schooling, (Greshem, OR: Noble Publishing Associates, 1992), page 401.