Protecting Homeschool Freedoms in Maine
In response to a request from the Maine Legislature last June, a Charter School Study Committee was organized by the State Board of Education. The Committee was asked to study and make recommendations for public charter school models in Maine. In January, the Committee presented a report to the Education Committee. HOME's Executive Director, Ed Green, was in attendance.

At first glance, these publicly funded programs may seem very attractive to some homeschoolers. A closer look reveals more danger than we may realize. These programs have a variety of names including, but not limited to: charter schools, independent study programs, alternative education programs, virtual schools, community schools, etc. In all of these programs parents lose authority, independence, flexibility, control and oversight.

Don't be misled! There are risks involved in changing your homeschool from a private homeschool to a government homeschool. Read more about this growing trend in the next issue of "The Heart of HOME" and at the websites below. Please share your new knowledge and understanding with homeschoolers in your community, on homeschool e-mail lists and within your support group!

American History Essay Winner
The Hannah Weston Chapter (Machias), Daughters of the American Revolution, has notified the winners of its American History Essay competition. Nathaniel R. Simpson submitted the best American History Essay among all the Grade 8 entries and received his award on February 3rd. His essay presented Thomas Jefferson's views on the Louisiana Purchase. Nathaniel is homeschooled as a student in Cornerstone Academy. He is the son of Joyce and Robert Simpson of Whiting. His essay has been forwarded to the State of Maine Daughters of the American Revolution for consideration at that level. Congratulations Nathaniel!

2004 Natural History Programs
A wide variety of natural history programs are scheduled for 2004 at the Pine Tree State Arboretum in Augusta. Reservations are first-come, first-served. For more information on the classes, visit: www.pinetreestatearboretum.org Call 621-0031 or email ptsaedu@adelphia.net to register.

Homeschool Team Succeeds with Robots and Lego
Out of the 40 participating teams, the Superior Homeschoolers achieved the highest overall points and received the prestigious Directors Award. The Directors Award is considered the highest honor in the FIRST LEGO League and the winning team members become valued role models.

Homeschooled Leader: George Washington
The father of our country was a surveyor, general, president--and homeschooler. Find out how George Washington's home education shaped his career and America's future.

NCAA Eliminates Waiver Process for Homeschoolers
Good news for homeschoolers who want to receive National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) scholarships and participate in college sports! Homeschoolers have finally been recognized as high school graduates by the NCAA.

Home School Heartbeat: A Meeting with President Bush
A few months ago, partial birth abortion became illegal with a stroke of the President's pen. Join Michael Farris as he talks with us about witnessing this historic bill signing on Home School Heartbeat.

Business
What will the economy look like when your homeschooler graduates? This week on Home School Heartbeat, Mike Smith talks about increasing your student's career options by instilling in him an entrepreneurial spirit.

Homeschooled Students Head to College
Colleges are noticing homeschooled students. A strong academic track record helps ease the path to the college campus.

Community College Questions
Massachusetts - A number of HSLDA members have reported surprising difficulties enrolling their children in community colleges.