Homeschooling Alberta - 2024 Ultimate Starters Guide

Alberta is booming, and so is homeschooling. This guide from EZ-Teach will take you through everything you need to get started for homeschooling Alberta. Follow the links in the table of contents below or scroll on.

1. How do I legally homeschool in Alberta?

2. Is there a tax credit for homeschooling in Alberta?

3. What do I need to homeschool my child in Alberta?

4. How many students homeschool in Alberta?

5. Homeschooling Organizations in Alberta

6. Homeschooling Grants Alberta

7. Online Homeschooling Options Alberta

8. Tips for Homeschooling in Alberta

If you have any other questions, feel free to contact us - we aim to help make your experience with education easier.

Your Start-Up Guide To Homeschooling Alberta

1. How do I legally homeschool in Alberta?

The good news is that in Alberta, Canada, homeschooling is a legal option for parents who wish to educate their children at home. Keep in mind that Albertans have 2 options, to either choose a supervised/funded home education route or a non-supervised / non-funded home education route. Learn about your options here and then choose accordingly. We will focus on the steps to legally homeschool in Alberta as per the supervised route:

A). Notify a School Authority

B) Choose an Education Plan

  • Home Education Program: Develop a home education program that meets the requirements of the Home Education Regulation. This plan should cover the subject areas and learning outcomes you intend to achieve.

  • Supervised Home Education: You can choose to follow the Alberta Programs of Study (curriculum) or develop your own program, which must be approved by the supervising school authority.

C) Develop a Learning Plan

  • Learning Outcomes: Ensure your learning plan includes clear educational outcomes that align with either the Alberta curriculum or the general education goals set out in the Home Education Regulation.

  • Resource Selection: Choose appropriate resources and materials to support your educational plan.

D) Maintain Records

  • Progress Records: Keep detailed records of your child’s progress, including samples of work, assessment results, and any other documentation that demonstrates learning and achievement.

  • Annual Reports: Submit progress reports to the supervising school authority as required. This typically involves an annual evaluation of your child’s progress.

E) Evaluation and Support

  • Home Visits or Meetings: If you choose the supervised home education route, expect the supervising school authority to conduct at least two evaluations per year. These can be home visits or meetings to review your child’s progress and provide support and recommendations for improvement if needed.

  • Access to Resources: Utilize the resources and support offered by the supervising school authority, which may include access to curriculum materials, assessments, and extracurricular activities.

F) Comply with Legal Requirements

  • Adherence to Regulations: Ensure you comply with the Alberta Education Home Education Regulation and any guidelines set forth by your supervising school authority.

  • Parent Declaration: Sign and submit any necessary declarations or agreements with the supervising school authority.

Additional Resources

By following these steps, you can legally homeschool your child in Alberta, ensuring they receive a quality education tailored to their needs and interests.

For homeschooling Alberta, be sure to plan ahead and understand your responsibilities.

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2. Is there a tax credit for homeschooling in Alberta?

As of the latest available information, Alberta does not offer a specific tax credit for homeschooling expenses. However, families who homeschool their children can benefit from other types of financial support and funding options:

A) Funding and Reimbursement

  • Home Education Funding: In Alberta, parents who choose to homeschool can receive funding through the supervising school authority. This funding is intended to help cover the costs of educational materials, resources, and activities.

    • Amount: The amount varies but is typically around $850 per student per year (this amount is subject to change and can vary by school authority).

    • Eligible Expenses: The funding can be used for a wide range of educational expenses, including textbooks, educational software, supplies, and extracurricular activities related to the home education program.

B) Reimbursement Process

  • Receipts and Documentation: Parents must keep receipts and documentation of all expenses to qualify for reimbursement.

  • Submission of Claims: Typically, parents submit claims for reimbursement to their supervising school authority, which processes and approves the eligible expenses.

Learn about the Standards for Home Education Reimbursement in Alberta, Canada.

C) Tax Deductions

  • General Tax Deductions: While there is no specific homeschooling tax credit, parents might be able to claim certain general tax deductions, such as the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) for contributions to a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP).

  • Medical Expense Tax Credit: In some cases, if homeschooling is undertaken for medical reasons, certain expenses may qualify under the Medical Expense Tax Credit. However, this is rare and would require specific documentation and approval.

Additional Information

  • Consult a Tax Professional: It is always advisable to consult with a tax professional or accountant to explore any potential tax benefits or deductions that may be available based on individual circumstances.

  • Check for Updates: Tax laws and educational funding policies can change, so it’s important to check with Alberta Education and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for the most current information.

In summary, while there is no dedicated tax credit for homeschooling in Alberta, financial support through funding and reimbursement from supervising school authorities can help offset the costs of home education. You can also see our section below on grants.

Keep receipts for educational expenses so that you can submit them for reimbursements for homeschooling Alberta.

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3. What do I need to homeschool my child in Alberta?

Homeschooling your child in Alberta requires a combination of planning, resources, and tools to create an effective learning environment. Since we’ve already reviewed some of the requirements outlined by Alberta’s Ministry of Education in section 1, here are some practical things you’ll need:

A) Educational Resources

Curriculum and Lesson Plans

  • Alberta Programs of Study: Use the provincial curriculum as a guide if following a structured approach.

  • Customized Curriculum: Develop a tailored curriculum that meets your child’s learning needs and interests.

Textbooks and Workbooks

  • Core Subjects: Ensure you have textbooks for core subjects like Math, English, Science, and Social Studies.

  • Supplementary Materials: Include workbooks, activity books, and reference materials.

Educational Software and Apps

  • Learning Platforms: Utilize online platforms such as Khan Academy, Coursera, or EdX for additional courses.

  • Subject-Specific Apps: Use apps for subjects like math (e.g., Mathletics), reading (e.g., Reading Eggs), and science (e.g., Mystery Science).

Library Access

  • Public Library Membership: Take advantage of local libraries for access to books, digital resources, and educational programs.

  • Online Libraries: Access online libraries and e-books for a wider range of reading materials.

B) Organizational Tools

Planner or Calendar

Record-Keeping System

  • Portfolios: Maintain a portfolio of your child’s work to track progress and demonstrate learning outcomes.

  • Documentation: Keep records of educational expenses, receipts, and correspondence with the supervising school authority.

C) Learning Environment

Dedicated Learning Space

  • Quiet and Comfortable Area: Set up a quiet, comfortable space dedicated to learning, free from distractions.

  • Organized Supplies: Ensure the space is equipped with necessary supplies like pens, pencils, paper, and art materials.

Technology and Equipment

  • Computer or Tablet: Essential for accessing online resources, educational software, and virtual learning.

  • Printer and Scanner: Useful for printing worksheets, assignments, and scanning completed work.

D) Support and Community

Supervising School Authority

  • Registration and Support: Register with a supervising school authority that will provide guidance, resources, and evaluations.

  • Annual Reporting: Stay in regular contact and submit required progress reports.

Homeschooling Groups and Co-ops

Extracurricular Activities

  • Sports and Clubs: Enroll your child in extracurricular activities to ensure they have opportunities for physical activity and social interaction.

  • Field Trips: Plan educational field trips to museums, science centers, historical sites, and other learning destinations. Here is a link to Alberta
    School Destinations    .

E) Health and Well-being

Physical Education

  • Exercise Programs: Incorporate regular physical activity through sports, exercise programs, or outdoor play.

  • Healthy Routine: Establish a healthy daily routine that includes breaks, nutritious meals, and sufficient rest.

Social Interaction

  • Peer Interaction: Arrange playdates, group activities, and social gatherings to ensure your child interacts with peers.

  • Community Involvement: Engage in community events and volunteer opportunities to build social skills and community awareness.

By gathering these practical resources and creating a structured, supportive learning environment, you can effectively homeschool your child in Alberta.

Don’t forget to plan extracurricular activities and field trips for your kids. Need a suggestion? Visit the Calgary Zoo.

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4. How many students homeschool in Alberta?

For the most up-to-date statistics, it's best to consult Alberta Education or local school authorities. However, as of the most recent available data from Statistics Canada, 22,539 students were homeschooled in Alberta in the 2021/2022 school year. This number can fluctuate yearly due to various factors, including changes in family decisions, educational policies, and external events such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Here are some sources to refer to when looking for the number of students who homeschool in Alberta:

While numbers can fluctuate, we are noting that more and more people in North America are choosing to homeschool.

Many children thrive in homeschooling programs mixed with the appropriate social outlets.

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5. Homeschooling Organizations in Alberta

Here are three well-regarded homeschooling organizations in Alberta, Canada:

The Alberta Home Education Association (AHEA)

  • Description: AHEA is a non-profit organization that provides support, resources, and advocacy for homeschooling families in Alberta. They offer information on legal requirements, and educational resources, and host an annual homeschooling conference.

  • Website: AHEA

Wisdom Homeschooling

  • Description: Wisdom Homeschooling is a government-accredited home education provider in Alberta, offering a range of resources, support services, and personalized guidance for homeschooling families. They focus on helping parents develop and implement effective educational plans.

  • Website: Wisdom Homeschooling

Alberta Homeschooling Association (AHA)

  • Description: The Alberta Homeschooling Association provides resources, support, and networking opportunities for homeschooling families. They offer information on best practices, and educational resources, and connect families with local support groups.

  • Website: Alberta Homeschooling Association

These organizations offer valuable support and resources for homeschooling families, helping them navigate the legal requirements and educational challenges of homeschooling in Alberta. Don’t forget to search Facebook for other homeschool groups in your area.

Joining a homeschool group or organization provides you and your family with support - and maybe some new friends!

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6. Homeschooling Grants Alberta

In Alberta, Canada, there are no specific grants solely dedicated to homeschooling. However, there are funding options and financial support available for homeschooling families through the following:

A) Home Education Funding

Alberta Home Education Funding

  • Description: This is funding provided to homeschooling families through approved supervising school authorities. The funding helps cover costs related to educational materials, resources, and activities.

  • Amount: Approximately $850 per student per year, though this amount can vary slightly depending on the school authority.

Support from Supervising School Authorities

  • Description: Various school authorities (public, separate, Francophone, or private) provide support and funding to families who are registered with them for home education.

  • Application: Families need to register with an accredited school authority, submit their educational plan, and keep detailed records of expenses for reimbursement.

B) Additional Financial Support

Education Rebate Programs

  • Description: While not specific to homeschooling, some rebate programs or tax credits available to all parents may indirectly benefit homeschooling families.

  • Example: The Alberta Child and Family Benefit or the Canada Child Benefit may provide general financial support to families, which can help with overall education costs.

For the most current information on funding, consult Alberta Education or your local supervising school authority. And don’t forget that some homeschooling support organizations might help members find financial assistance, scholarships, or grants. There are also charitable organizations and foundations that provide grants for educational purposes. Homeschooling families can apply for these grants to support their educational expenses. Websites like GrantWatch or CanadaHelps can be useful in finding such opportunities.

Here are some tips to remember:

  • Research: Start by researching local school division policies and any available educational grants.

  • Join Homeschooling Groups: Connect with local and online homeschooling support groups to stay informed about any financial assistance opportunities.

  • Apply for Scholarships/Grants: Look for scholarships and grants that homeschooled students are eligible for and apply accordingly.

  • Consult a Tax Professional: Discuss with a tax professional to understand any potential tax benefits or deductions.

Alberta seems to have a lot to offer homeschooling families - it’s just a matter of being informed and prepared.

Don’t forget that you can often save money on school supplies by shopping second-hand. Or, sign up for free samples.

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7. Online Homeschooling Options Alberta

In Alberta, Canada, there are several online homeschooling options available to families. These options provide a variety of resources and support to facilitate home education through online platforms. Here are three prominent online homeschooling options:

A) Alberta Distance Learning Centre (ADLC)

  • Description: ADLC offers a comprehensive range of courses for students in grades 1 through 12. It provides flexible learning options that can be tailored to individual student needs, including print-based, online, and blended learning formats.

  • Features:

    • Accredited courses following the Alberta Programs of Study

    • Access to certified teachers for support and assessment

    • A wide range of subjects and elective courses

  • Website: ADLC

B) Traditional Home Education Providers

  • Examples: Wisdom Homeschooling, The Centre for Learning@HOME, and Phoenix Foundation

  • Description: These providers offer structured home education programs that combine traditional homeschooling methods with online resources and support.

  • Features:

    • Customized educational plans based on the Alberta curriculum

    • Access to online resources and platforms for supplementary learning

    • Regular evaluations and support from certified teachers

  • Websites:

C) Alberta Online Schools

  • St. Gabriel Cyber School

    Description: St. Gabriel Cyber School provides online education for grades 1 to 12, focusing on a flexible and student-centered approach.

    Features:

    • Full curriculum aligned with Alberta Education standards

    • Real-time support and interaction with teachers

    • Personalized learning plans and resources

  • Pembina Hills School Division

    Description: Offers various online and home education programs, including Vista Virtual School.

    Features:

    • Wide range of courses and flexible learning options

    • Certified teachers providing support and assessment

    • Programs tailored to meet individual student needs

D) Additional Online Resources

  • Khan Academy: Offers free online courses and resources for a wide range of subjects.

  • Coursera and EdX: Provide access to online courses from universities around the world, which can be useful for advanced learners or supplementary education.

  • EZ-Teach: We at EZ-Teach have partnered with a local school and other individuals to provide online courses and tutoring. Click here to see a listing of our online courses or ask us about a course you would like to see us make available!

These online homeschooling options in Alberta provide flexible and comprehensive education solutions, allowing families to tailor their homeschooling experience to best meet their children's needs.

EZ-Teach provides online courses as well as tutoring and ESL classes.

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8. Tips for Homeschooling in Alberta

Homeschooling in Alberta can be a rewarding experience with the right approach and resources. Here are some top tips to help you navigate the process:

A) Understand the Legal Requirements

  • Register with a Supervising Authority: Ensure you register your child with an accredited school authority that will supervise your home education program.

  • Submit a Home Education Plan: Develop a detailed education plan that outlines the subjects and learning objectives for the year. Make sure it aligns with Alberta’s home education regulations.

B) Create a Structured Schedule

  • Consistent Routine: Establish a consistent daily and weekly routine to provide structure and stability.

  • Flexible Learning: Allow flexibility within your schedule to accommodate your child’s learning pace and interests.

C) Use a Variety of Resources

  • Curriculum Options: Explore different curriculum options to find what works best for your child, whether it’s Alberta Programs of Study, traditional textbooks, or online courses.

  • Supplemental Materials: Incorporate supplementary materials such as educational software, apps, library resources, and field trips.

D) Keep Detailed Records

  • Track Progress: Maintain a portfolio of your child’s work, including assignments, projects, and assessments.

  • Document Expenses: Keep receipts and documentation of educational expenses for reimbursement and record-keeping purposes.

E) Utilize Online Learning Platforms

  • Online Schools: Enroll in online schools like Vista Virtual School or St. Gabriel Cyber School for structured courses and teacher support.

  • Educational Websites: Access other free and paid online resources like Khan Academy, Time4Learning, and EZ-Teach to supplement your curriculum.

F) Connect with the Homeschooling Community

  • Support Groups: Join local homeschooling groups or online communities for support, advice, and social opportunities.

  • Co-ops: Participate in homeschooling co-ops where families share teaching responsibilities and resources.

G) Focus on Socialization

  • Extracurricular Activities: Enroll your child in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and clubs to ensure they have opportunities for social interaction.

  • Group Activities: Organize playdates, field trips, and group learning activities with other homeschooling families.

H) Tailor Education to Your Child’s Needs

  • Personalized Learning: Adapt your teaching methods and materials to fit your child’s learning style and interests.

  • Hands-On Learning: Incorporate hands-on learning experiences like science experiments, art projects, and practical life skills.

I) Stay Informed and Updated

  • Professional Development: Attend homeschooling conferences, workshops, and webinars to stay informed about best practices and new resources.

  • Educational Changes: Keep up-to-date with any changes in homeschooling regulations or educational standards in Alberta.

J) Take Care of Yourself

  • Self-Care: Make sure to take time for yourself to avoid burnout. Homeschooling can be demanding, so it’s important to maintain your well-being.

  • Support Network: Lean on your support network, whether it’s family, friends, or other homeschooling parents, for encouragement and assistance.

By following these tips, you can create a successful and fulfilling homeschooling experience for your child in Alberta.

Let EZ-Teach help make learning easy.

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