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Now that you know how the term “facilitator” came into being and why it is largely a made-in-Alberta phenomenon, we will proceed to describe what facilitation entails.  But first, let me explain why facilitation is necessary. Government does not “usually” dole out money without strings attached.  While Alberta’s funding of home education is unique and … Continue reading "Facilitation – History Pt. 5: Back to the Basics (Part 34)"

Once private schools were given the right to sponsor home education, yet another new educational phenomenon came into being in Alberta.  Most funded private schools knew little about home education, yet were attracted by the possibility of increased income.  This is when third party contractors with home education expertise came into being, allowing schools to … Continue reading "Facilitation – History Pt. 4: Back to the Basics (Part 33)"

As the home education population of Alberta grew, so did the ways in which schools ascertained the educational progress of these students.   As one of the first certificated teachers to be home educating in this province, it was assumed I knew what I was doing.  While Faye and I were left alone by our … Continue reading "Facilitation – History Pt. 3: Back to the Basics (Part 32)"

Home education became part of the Alberta educational landscape for the first time with the 1988 School Act, and at this time, non-resident school boards also came into being.  We can assume the creation of non-resident school boards was to mitigate the persecution some home educators were experiencing by their local school boards.  Now, smaller … Continue reading "Facilitation – History Pt. 2: Back to the Basics (Part 31)"

If you were to mention home education facilitation to home educators anywhere other than in Alberta, you are likely to get strange looks.  Most have never heard of it.  “Home education what?” they ask.  “What is it?  What does it entail?  How is it that teachers come into your home?  Isn’t that an affront to … Continue reading "Facilitation – History Pt. 1: Back to the Basics (Part 30)"

I once read a saying that says it all!  “Education is going from an unconscious to conscious awareness of one’s ignorance.”  Perhaps this is a good way to end our series on opposition to home education.  You see, the biggest misunderstanding regarding home education is that it is about training children.  It is, of course, but … Continue reading "Testing Home Education – Part 10: Back to the Basics (Part 29)"