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How to start your own Home school or Christian school

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November 24, 2024

TLDR: Discusses starting a Christian School/Home School with strategic planning and fundraising insights from Homer Allen, focusing on the importance of having a vision.

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In the latest episode of The Dean's List with host Dean Bowen, the discussion focuses on the essential steps and resources available for starting a homeschool or Christian school. The guest on the show, Homer Allen, a veteran in educational establishment and fundraising, shares valuable insights that can help aspiring educators navigate the initial hurdles of this important venture.

Key Insights from Homer Allen

Homer Allen teaches strategic planning and fundraising at Regent University, primarily aimed at graduate students heading into the Christian education sector. In his class, he aims to dismantle the misconceptions around fundraising and equip future educators with practical skills necessary for establishing schools that reflect their vision.

Importance of Vision

  • Vision as Foundation: Homer emphasizes the necessity of having a clear vision when starting any educational institution. A vision helps guide the decisions and actions of the founding team.
  • Spiritual Connection: He refers to Henri Nouwen’s book The Spirituality of Fundraising, highlighting that fundraising is a ministry-driven pursuit rather than an act of soliciting money for personal gain.

Steps to Successfully Start a School

  • Prayer and Community Support: Homer stresses the importance of prayer and surrounding oneself with a team who shares a similar burden to start a school.
  • Documenting the Vision: Referring to Habakkuk 2:2-3, Homer encourages the clear documentation of your vision to inspire others and to help ensure that goals are met over time.
  • Practical Planning: Discussing his own experience in New Hampshire, Homer illustrates the necessity of thorough planning, including budgeting for facilities, staffing, and materials.

Overcoming Barriers to Homeschooling

  • Mental Barriers: Many parents express fears about their capability to homeschool, often due to feelings of inadequacy. Homer identifies these fears as significant obstacles and emphasizes that parents do not need to have teacher certifications.
  • The Three C's: Homer introduces the concept of the Three C’s in helping parents start homeschools: Courage, Community, and Curriculum. Building a supportive community and finding suitable curriculum resources are crucial.

The Role of Community

Homer passionately discusses the potential of community in homeschool initiatives. A strong network can provide the necessary encouragement and resources, including:

  • Support Groups: Connecting with other homeschool families can build confidence and accountability.
  • Shared Resources: Community can also provide shared learning experiences and curriculum resources.

Herzog Foundation: A Critical Resource

Furthermore, Homer speaks about the Herzog Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at promoting K-12 Christian education. Established with a significant endowment, the foundation offers free seminars and tailored guidance to individuals interested in starting schools or homeschools, which include:

  • Access to Resources: They offer mentorship and courses on school administration, fundraising strategies, and community involvement, all at no cost to participants.
  • Professional Support: The foundation pairs new initiatives with experienced mentors who provide ongoing support throughout the establishment process.

Practical Takeaways

  • Start Small: Whether beginning a school or a homeschool, it’s recommended to start small and scale as needed. Many successful programs begin with limited resources and grow through effective community engagement.
  • Fundraising is Key: Consider various avenues of fundraising, not just tuition. Long-term sustainability often relies on developing relationships with donors.
  • Trust in God's Plan: Homer encourages listeners to trust in their vision and to be open to the creative ways in which God can provide solutions to challenges faced during the startup phase.

Conclusion

The conversation between Dean Bowen and Homer Allen serves as an empowering guide for anyone considering starting a homeschool or Christian school. The episode reassures that with a clear vision, community support, and commitment to prayer, it is possible to navigate the challenges involved in establishing a nurturing educational environment for children.

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