Kern County has a number of programs for parents who wish to educate their children at home. Homeschooling is legal, although some are watching closely a court case that has threatened it.
In February 2008, the 2nd District Court of Appeal ruled that uncredentialed parents could not teach their children. But an order filed March 25, 2008 announced the court would rehear the case.
Here is a list of resources to learn more about homeschooling in Kern County.
Resources
Bakersfield Home Learners: Offers enrichment activities to all home school families from preschoolers to high school students. Activities include field trips, park days, learning theme days and co-op days. www.groups.yahoo.com/group/
BakersfieldHomeLearners
The Bakersfield Region Home Educators’ Resource Center: This Christian group serves home schooling families and those who wish to learn more about home schooling with resources including: professional counseling and advising, seminars, e-mail networking, curriculum counseling, curriculum center and lending library, diagnostic and achievement testing services, record keeping and transcripts, graduation ceremony, classes, clubs and more. 366-9173 or 327-5921, ext. 128, hs411@sbcglobal.net, eternityinmyheart@bak.rr.com, www.HERCbakersfield.org. Office is located on the campus of Calvary Bible Church, 48 Manor St., Bakersfield.
Thinking About Homeschooling: Christian ministry formed to help families make the decision to homeschool. Provides information and activities about home schooling and home preschooling. Susan Lemons, 827-0540, mentormom@bak.rr.com.
Christian Home Educators of the County of Kern: Provides information, support and activities for Christian families educating children in the home. Those considering home education are welcome. Susan Lemons, 827-0540, Kate Ewing, 589-7508, www.checkca.org.
Valley Oaks Charter School: A parent choice, parent participation, tuition-free charter where parents, teachers and the community work together to educate students. The school offers home-based learning, cooperative school programs and classes, independent study, group seminars and learning projects. 633-5288 for elementary students and 636-4467 for high school students.
California Virtual Acadamies: Online program that uses K-12 curriculum and is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Schools (ACS) of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) for all academies, grades K-12. Provides teacher mentors, assessment tools, a supportive community, and tuition-free education. Learn more at www.caliva.org or www.k12.com/cava.
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