Webster defines talent as "the natural endowments of a person; a special often athletic, creative, or artistic aptitude." As homeschool families, we seek to help each student find their specific talent, their unique way in the world. HomeLife Academy's Goal-based Planning for high school is the way to focus your student's high school career to positively prepare for life after high school. HomeLife Academy knows God has a plan for each student and we want to support and encourage the process to help each student successfully reach their goals.

Minimum courses required for graduation, beginning with the Class of 2013:

4 years of English

4 years of Math

3 years of Science

US History

US Government

Economics

Personal Finance

PE

Health

The Math and Science courses are dependent on what your student needs to meet his goals. For example, college bound students need four years of Math starting with Algebra 1. However, if your student will be starting, or continuing, a business right out of high school, Consumer Math, Business Math, Accounting and Statistics might be more beneficial.

Other Goal-based considerations might be a focus on Fine Arts, Foreign Language if attending college or beginning a profession that an additional language would be helpful, or a computer focus if interested in pursuing a career in IT.

As a school, we want every opportunity to be open and available for our students. We know in today's world that no education is a waste, that it is important to be well-rounded and exposed to as many subjects as possible. To that end we encourage and support parents and students who plan and prepare for their future.

For more great planning tips see Karen's workshops videos here:

Introduction: Karen Johnson Homeschool Highschool with HomeLife Academy

Collegebound Homeschooling Clip with Karen Johnson

Opportunities to Socialize

• Get connected with homeschooling support groups, both state and local organizations.  
• Find pen pals or e-pals (email).  
• Participate in homeschool family get-togethers, where you can often find out about non-publicized cooperative classes and field trips.  
• Get involved in community resources and opportunities - sports, scouting, dance/theater, etc. Contact your local parks and recreation departments.  
• Check out your community college, which is a good source for older students and allows them to interact with a lot of different people of different ages.  

Volunteering.  Volunteering is a great way to socialize but be aware there may be age restrictions, but some organizations will allow a child to accompany a parent volunteer.  

• Look into Camps.  Camp is a wonderful chance for socialization and most camps have multi-age groups and counselors who act as role models.  
• Think about summer school, which is an opportunity to experience a school setting.

How Do You Socialize Your Children?