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  Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7    September means school starts. Homeschoolers are always in school! For many, this is an exciting time to reconnect with friends and families in our support groups to work together to disciple our children. For others, it is a time of heaviness, trying to overcome inertia, either our own or our children’s, and their unwillingness to cooperate with us in the work of growing spiritually and intellectually. In either case, September is the time to begin new chapters in our homeschool. The key to homeschool success is focusing on a clear goal and planning to accomplish it. At MiCHN, we encourage your primary goal to be disciplining your children. The beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord. God says this twice in His word so we don’t miss out on the importance of Him first (Proverbs 1:7, 9:10). Heaven before Harvard is the goal. This doesn’t mean traditional education isn’t important; we want our sons and daughters to be thoroughly equipped to do every good work, but we want them to live with us forever, first and foremost, in the kingdom of God. I encourage you then to be patient with those who are struggling, keep rejoicing with those who are succeeding, and encourage one another to keep pressing on for the upward prize of Christ. Remember, you are not alone. You have the Holy Spirit, your local support group, and your extended friends at MiCHN to encourage you. Together we shall succeed and keep praying for our freedom to raise our children in the way they should go. Let us be faithful in this first priority so He continues to cover us with His strong hand. Blessings, Mike Winter President, MiCHN   Need A Homeschool Curriculum Boost? Have you ever tried a Unit Study before???  Try our FREE Michigan Unit Study Plan: But the excitement doesn't stop with the event itself. As a special gift to you, we're offering a free 5-day Michigan Unit study plan. This comprehensive plan covers four key areas: History: Delve into the captivating history of Michigan, from Native American cultures to the industrial revolution and beyond. Geography: Explore Michigan's diverse landscapes, from the Great Lakes to rolling hills and bustling cities. Science: Discover the wonders of Michigan's natural world, from its abundant wildlife to geological marvels. Civics: Understand the principles of democracy, citizenship, and civic responsibility that are at the core of our state and nation. By the end of this 5-day journey, not only will your kids have a deeper understanding of Michigan, but they'll also be filled with awe and pride for our state, as well as thankfulness to God for the freedoms we enjoy. Click HERE to get yours:)  Need more ideas?  Check out our HUGE list of ideas for all your homeschool curriculum needs. P.S. We have a great 2024-2025 Homeschooling Planner too! When in doubt Plan a Fieldtrip! (Even better if you invite friends!) Day At The Dome Guided Capitol Tours  Learn Michigan's rich history at the Michigan History Museum Impression 5 Science center SEA LIFE MICHIGAN: HOMESCHOOL WEEK September 23-27, 2024   Why should you bother attending the annual Day at the Dome event in Lansing?  If there was ever a lesson to be learned from the last year, it is to stay diligent and active in our state government. This year, Michigan saw one of the most active and threatening uprisings against our homeschool freedoms that we've seen in the past 30 years. With MiCHN, CTV, and Salt and Light Global at the helm, we have been able to ward off the potential dangers of homeschool registrations and the cascading downward spiral of freedoms lost. However, the battle is NOT over. As election day approaches, it is VITAL that we home educators remain active in Lansing. This is best summed up in the following article from homeschoolfreedom.com Top Ten Reasons to Attend Your State’s Homeschool Day at the Capitol As homeschooling parents who deeply value the freedom to educate our children at home, it’s crucial to recognize and participate in opportunities that safeguard these liberties. Capitol Day is not just an event; it’s a celebration of our homeschool freedom and a powerful statement of our commitment to our children’s education. Here are the top ten reasons why attending your state’s Capitol Day is of paramount importance: Direct Impact on Legislation Your presence provides a unique opportunity to dispel negative stereotypes by allowing legislators to meet homeschooling families in person. This interaction can influence their understanding and decisions on future legislation that may impact homeschoolers. Build Relationships with Legislators Before any problematic legislation arises, it’s vital to develop relationships with our legislators. These connections ensure that our voice is heard when it matters most, fostering a proactive approach to homeschool advocacy. Hands-On Civics Lesson for Students Capitol Day serves as a practical, engaging civics lesson for children, demonstrating the workings of government and the importance of active participation in our Constitutional Republic. Accountability to Homeschool Freedom Attending Homeschool Day at the Capitol sends a clear message to legislators that homeschool families are vigilant about our freedoms and will hold elected officials accountable for protecting our God-given right to educate our children as we see fit.   Encouragement and Engagement It provides an invaluable source of encouragement for homeschool families, reminding us of the importance of staying engaged in the fight to maintain our educational freedoms.   Sense of Camaraderie Participating families enjoy a sense of belonging to a larger community, reminding us that we are not alone in our home education endeavors or as we work to protect homeschool freedom.   Visibility and Advocacy Your presence increases visibility in the Capitol, ensuring that homeschoolers’ voices are heard and considered in the legislative process, thereby advocating for homeschool freedom.   Educational for All Ages Adults and children alike learn about the government process, the significance of the legislative system, and the intricacies of homeschool regulations.   A Rich Field Trip Experience The Capitol building itself offers a wealth of educational opportunities, making it an excellent field trip location that combines learning with the practical advocacy of homeschooling freedoms.   Inspiration through Guest Speakers Capitol Day events often include inspiring guest speakers, providing encouragement and community bonding within the legislative setting.   WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU IN LANSING ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2024!!!!   Find the Benefits HERE! Sign up today and help us continue our work of protecting and expanding homeschool freedoms in Michigan and providing important resources for families. Get fantastic benefits and perks for your family, including up to 25% off upcoming events! (Check out some past events HERE) Fight With Us HERE!   These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today. What's happening at MICHN   Copyright © 2022 MICHN, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 4407 W St. Joseph Hwy Lansing, MI 48917

Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Mark your calendars for Wednesday, October 2, 2024 for our annual Homeschool Day at the Dome! Bring your kids to our State Capitol for a fun morning of Capitol building tours and an afternoon rally!  Pack a lunch and come have a picnic on the Capitol lawn with other homeschoolers from across the state. At 1:00 PM, our rally will kick off with an array of state leaders and lawmakers. After the year we have all had, be sure to attend and make a statement in Lansing that Home educators are united and ready to defend our freedoms! We look forward to seeing you at the Capitol on the first Wednesday of October! See Day At The Dome HERE   Keep an Eye Out for Open Registration! IYKYK!! And We know you need to join us!   Come worship with other homeschooling moms and hear an encouraging message to help us in our Homeschooling journey!!   Get Your Free Gift HERE!   Find the Benefits HERE! Sign up today and help us continue our work of protecting and expanding homeschool freedoms in Michigan and providing important resources for families. Get fantastic benefits and perks for your family, including up to 25% off upcoming events! (Check out some past events HERE) Fight With Us HERE!   These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today. What's happening at MICHN  

    Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate James 1:5 says If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.   The BEST way to start your homeschool year, is with PRAYER!    Pray and ask the Lord for wisdom. There are SOO many good options out there, but we need the Lord's direction in selecting activities, books, co-ops, sports, and the list goes on. (Even if it's something 'you've always done'.)    Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.  Pray about your "Why". On those hard days, the "Why" that God has given you will keep you going!   Psalm 29:11 May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace! Pray for His peace. Maybe this is your first year homeschooling, it can seem overwhelming to start something new. Or maybe it's your first year teaching a kid to read or starting high school or having a student driver. The Lord has His peace for you in every season!  Back to Homeschool! Are you ready?  Let's get your 'back to school' started on the right foot.    Get Connected: Find an experienced homeschooling mom (or dad!) near you. Ask all the questions!  Check out our list of groups in Michigan HERE (You can also add your group to this list.)  Other ways to get connected, 5 Simple Tips for Making Homeschool Friends.  Pray:  I know I already said this, but it's worth repeating :)  Know the Laws:  Learn HERE the simple requirements in Michigan, so you can homeschool with confidence.  Curriculum:  ***We have a great Homeschooling Planner all set for you.*** Check out our HUGE list of all things for your homeschool curriculum. More Tips for a New Homeschool Year.  AND take this wonderful opportunity to read & memorize the Bible together Scripture Memory Work and pray together! Have I mentioned prayer yet?!  Get Excited: Celebrate that you get to do this together!  First Day of Homeschool Ideas! Fun ways to Celebrate Back to Homeschool  Plan a Fieldtrip: SEA LIFE MICHIGAN: HOMESCHOOL WEEK September 23-27, 2024 Find the Benefits HERE! Sign up today and help us continue our work of protecting and expanding homeschool freedoms in Michigan and providing important resources for families. Get fantastic benefits and perks for your family, including up to 25% off upcoming events! (Check out some past events HERE) Fight With Us HERE!   These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today. What's happening at MICHN   Copyright © 2022 MICHN, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 4407 W St. Joseph Hwy Lansing, MI 48917

View this email in your browser Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Galatians 5.13: You my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. I hope your celebration of our country's independence was a good one. When we think of the 4th of July, we think of freedom. We are privileged to live in the freest country in the world and homeschool in one of the freest states in the union. At MiCHN, we believe God kickstarted the homeschool movement anew in the 1980s because the public education system was leading His children into the bondage of sin and death because they ignored His commands and taught His Word was untrue. Homeschooling was His means for returning the children's hearts to Himself through parents teaching Biblical truth at home and encouraging obedience to His commands. Our responsibility is to take advantage of our freedom to teach our children His ways. Our obedience with His gift is our best hope for keeping His protection of its continuance. Despite our government leaders' antagonism toward homeschooling, nothing has changed in our laws over the past two years. We can give God thanks and praise. The main things we have done for our part to keep this freedom are praying to God for mercy, attending our legislative coffee hours to build our relationship with our state leaders, and informing them of our desire to stay unregulated and work with protectMIchildren. This c4 lobbying organization has kept a lobbyist working on the inside for our freedom. I invite you to keep working for freedom by continuing to disciple your children, pray for our freedom, meet with your legislators, and give to our friends at protectMIchildren so they can continue lobbying. You can make your donations HERE. Blessings. Mike Winter President, MiCHN How do you learn best? How do your children learn best? If you aren't ready to start talking about school yet...that's okay! But we can talk about learning, right? Life is learning. Your child has been learning since before he was born. And YOU have been teaching him the whole time!:) So even if you are new to Homeschooling, you are not new to teaching. As a result, you know your child best. Knowing and utilizing your child’s learning style will help you engage and individualize his learning. Remember that he might be heavy in one learning style or a mixture of a few.  Here is a common breakdown of those styles.    Visual Learners "I See"  Raise your hand if you have a child that loves to doodle in a margins of his worksheets! Yup, then you might have a Visual learner. Often, he learns best by his many observations. Think illustrated books, flash card, maps, YouTube videos, and colorful anything. He is a note takers, highlighters, and will remember where something is on a specific page in a book! Reading, vocabulary, and spelling come easily to this visual learner.   Auditory Learners "I Hear"  Auditory learners learn best through, well, hearing/listening. He is your talker! (Or maybe even your singer?!) He enjoys music, all parts of it, the lyrics, rhythms, and the patterns. Poetry can also be a highlight for him. And he can memorize both with ease. You will not find this child taking notes, but that doesn't mean he isn't paying attention. He will sound out words and tend to spell VERY phonetically. Keep the audiobooks, Spotify, podcasts, sermons, read alouds, and oral narration/ recitation flowing! (And be ready for a lot of discussion afterwards!) Kinesthetic Learners "I Do" Kinesthetic learners learn best by doing and movement plays a huge role in this. Building, manipulatives, experiments, nature, "acting out" what he has just learned, hands-on activities, and any type active learning. Which child takes your broken vacuum apart? Or is volunteering to build that 10th bookshelf? (I'm a Homeschool mom, I need a lot of books). Keep this wiggly one engaged by, letting him standing while writing, playing Lego while listening to a read aloud, breaks to be outside, hand motions for memorization, and short lessons.  Overall, whether you have 1 child or 15, God created each one as a unique masterpiece (Eph 2:10) and gifted in a way to make a contribution to His Kingdom. So continue to pray and seek the Lord for His direction concerning all things, learning styles included.    Find the Benefits HERE! Sign up today and help us continue our work of protecting and expanding homeschool freedoms in Michigan and providing important resources for families. Get fantastic benefits and perks for your family, including up to 25% off upcoming events! (Check out some past events HERE) Fight With Us HERE!   These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today. What's happening at MICHN   Copyright © 2022 MICHN, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 4407 W St. Joseph Hwy Lansing, MI 48917

Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Happy Father's Day!!! Homeschool Dads Matter Children are eternally impacted when Dads have a strong presence at home!  Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV) And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. Children who have a strong relationship with their Dads experience many benefits, including: -Better mental & social outcomes  -Reading together develops better language skills  -Lower levels of stress & depression symptoms  -Preforming better in school  Involved Dads is good for Dad too!  Grandpas, Uncles, Pastors, or older siblings can also play this wonderful fatherly role.  *Stats found HERE Dads are more involved with their children when moms support them! Some great ways to encourage Dad this Father's Day:    INCH 2024 Dad Session (over 50% off right now!)  And/or    Brant Hansen's Book  Support Homeschool Freedom & Enjoy Benefits! Have you joined MiCHN as a Supporting Member yet? Sign up today and help us continue our work of protecting and expanding homeschool freedoms in Michigan and providing important resources for families.  PLUS, you'll get fantastic benefits and perks for your family, including up to 25% off upcoming events! (Check out some past events HERE) Fight With Us HERE!   These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today. What's happening at MICHN       Copyright © 2022 MICHN, All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 4407 W St. Joseph Hwy Lansing, MI 48917  

INCH 2024 Speakers Conference Program Buy Your Ticket HERE Don't miss out on our  Family Fun Night with Brant Hansen! THIS Friday May 10th from 7-9pm. ***Included in your ALL-Access Pass***     Do you know someone beginning their homeschool journey? Ginny Yurich and Phylicia Masonheimer, will encourage & equip those who are considering homeschooling, or those who have newly decided to homeschool.  We want you to know: You CAN do it!

Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate   As INCH approaches in only a few more days, excitement is mounting for all that will be happening as homeschoolers gather from around the state here in Lansing! This Thursday through Saturday, May 9th-11th, is the 40th annual Inspirational Networking Conference for Homeschoolers!  And it's NOT too late for YOU to join us for even a part of the conference... Come when you can! Single day passes are still available online, as are 3 Day All Access passes, HERE (They will also be available at the door, but costs go up $10/ticket.) Good news is also occurring in the state legislature. Last week, HB 5664 was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Labor Committee. This bill is a reintroduction of a billl that MiCHN worked to get passed back in 2021. This bill would give homeschool parents the right to issue work permits for their own children instead of having to gain permission from their local public school district.  In September of 2021, the bill had passed easily through both the House and the Senate, but was then vetoed by our Governor.... (See article HERE) We are asking you to take a look at the recently proposed legislation, HB 5664 of 2023, HERE, and then: Thank the sponsoring legislators for reintroducing this bill. (Representatives. Hoadley, Martin, Rigas, Borton, Aragona, Neyer, Alexander, Slagh, Kunse, Thompson, Beson, Roth, Carra, Outman and Bollin.) Contact info for all representatives can be found HERE Contact your own representative and tell them you would like them to support HB 5664. Contact members of the House Labor Committee and ask them to pass this bill out of committee for approval on the House floor. (If you reside in the district of one of these committee members, please make sure you tell them that when you call.) You can find the House Labor Committee members and their contact information HERE As we prepare to encourage one another at the INCH conference this week, let us also encourage our elected leaders to continue the excellent work of preserving and even expanding our homeschool freedoms, so that parents are able to do what they believe is best for their children, both regarding their education and their work experiences. Blessings. Mike Winter MiCHN President     Want a sneak peak of our conference program?? ****Check it out HERE****     Continue to PRAY with us!  

Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate A Most Urgent but Quite Brief Message to Homeschool Dads (from Someone Who Doesn’t Do It Anymore) Here’s the reason I’m not a dad of homeschoolers anymore: They’re adults now. We’re done. We fought the good fight, ran the race—all that. Really, in our case, it’s true that my wife did almost all of it. But I made some sacrifices, too. Education was an all-in family thing until they went to college. At the time, when we first started, I thought, on balance, it was the right move. But given that’s it all said and done, in light of all the struggles and doubts and self-questioning through those long homeschooling years, I’ve now reached this conclusion: It was TOTALLY the right move. It was all worth it. All of it. We have no regrets, whatsoever. I’m not kidding. Normally, I’m Mr. Nuance, Mr. See-Both- Sides, and Mr. Measured. But seriously: I honestly am so very, very, very glad we went the route we did. So thankful to God. So thankful for my wife. The years go by, and you don’t get them back, man. I have regrets in life, and made some judgment errors. But the homeschool ride? Wow, was that was the right call for us. Keep going. -Brant Hansen (Featured INCH Speaker)    Support Homeschool Freedom & Enjoy Benefits! Have you joined MiCHN as a Supporting Member yet? Sign up today and help us continue our work of protecting and expanding homeschool freedoms in Michigan and providing important resources for families.  PLUS, you'll get fantastic benefits and perks for your family, including up to 25% off the upcoming Homeschool Conference!  Pssst... You Can Register For the Conference HERE   Still Taking Nominations  for The Marcia Holmes Memorial Award  September 2022, MiCHN lost a very dear member of our leadership team-- our conference coordinator for many years, a close friend and sister in the Lord, Marcia Holmes. While we miss her dearly, her life was an inspiration to so many of us, and it is our hope and prayer that her contributions and legacy will live on in the heart of our conference and the state homeschool community as a whole. In remembrance of Marcia, we would like to honor one outstanding Michigan homeschool leader at the INCH Conference annually, with the Marcia Holmes Memorial Award.  We are asking for your help to choose a worthy recipient of this award. Our MiCHN leadership team is currently accepting nominations from across the state. To choose the recipient of this year's Marcia Holmes Memorial Award, we are looking for a leader who best represents a faithful and persevering servant going through hard times, yet still dedicated to serving the homeschool community-- just like Marcia did!   When reading these verses from Hebrews 12 and Galatians 6, what homeschool leader do you know who has endured hardship and struggles, yet continued to serve and be a blessing to others in your homeschool community? Who comes to your mind that best exemplifies the following:   "... let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of our faith..."  (Heb. 12:1b-2a)   "Let us not become weary in doing good,  for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Gal. 6:9) Please submit the name of your nominee and share their story, by emailing our office at: Email: [email protected] Subject Line: The Marcia Holmes Memorial Award **Nominations are due by Monday, May 6th, 2024 at NOON. ** The honoree will be recognized and presented with a special plaque during a Keynote Address at the INCH Conference.  Did you see our newest update on S.B. 285 (the Mandatory Kindergarten bill)? S.B. 285 has passed the Michigan Senate (on April 16, 2024) , but it will need to pass the Michigan House before it can be sent to the Governor to become law. Here is who voted for it:  Yeas—21: Anthony, Cherry, Klinefelt, Polehanki, Bayer, Geiss. McCann, Santana, Brinks, Hertel, McDonald, Rivet, Shink, Camilleri, Irwin McMorrow, Singh, Cavanagh, Johnson, Moss, Wojno, Chang  Nays—15: Albert, Hauck, Lindsey, Theis, Bellino, Hoitenga, Nesbitt, Victory, Daley, Huizenga, Outman, Webber, Damoose, Lauwers, Runestad  Excused—2: Bumstead, McBroom  ****View the bill here. We have received many questions asking for clarity on what the bill means for homeschoolers. See the Answers to the Questions HERE!   These are quite uncertain times. Right now, MICHN would advise you to make sure your account is up to date and accurate with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. Be sure to visit their website, and if you have not done so already, BECOME A MEMBER today. What's happening at MICHN  

S.B. 285 (the Mandatory Kindergarten bill) passed the Senate on April 16, 2024. S.B. 285 has passed the Michigan Senate, but it will need to pass the Michigan House before it can be sent to the Governor to become law. Here is who voted for it:  Yeas—21: Anthony, Cherry, Klinefelt, Polehanki, Bayer, Geiss. McCann, Santana, Brinks, Hertel, McDonald, Rivet, Shink, Camilleri, Irwin McMorrow, Singh, Cavanagh, Johnson, Moss, Wojno, Chang  Nays—15: Albert, Hauck, Lindsey, Theis, Bellino, Hoitenga, Nesbitt, Victory, Daley, Huizenga, Outman, Webber, Damoose, Lauwers, Runestad  Excused—2: Bumstead, McBroom  ****View the bill here. We have received many questions asking for clarity on what the bill means for homeschoolers. If it is signed into law, it would lower the state’s compulsory attendance law from age six to age five. It would require homeschoolers to begin teaching nine academic subjects in an “organized education program” at the age of five (instead of six as previously mandated). Those academic subjects include: reading, spelling, literature, writing & English grammar mathematics science history civics Find more information HERE. This is estimated to cost Michigan taxpayers an additional $43.3 million dollars annually. These taxes go towards public school students whose parents don’t feel private schools or homeschooling are an option. Homeschoolers will have to help pay for this expense even if they don’t use the public school system. There is an opt-out, but it requires parents intending to use the public school system to notify the public school in writing. This is the language many are confused about regarding the legal notification wording contained in S.B. 285: "(2) the parent or legal guardian of that child may delay enrolling the child in kindergarten for only that school year in a public school operated by the school district or, for a community district or a school district that does not directly operate schools on its own, in another public school located within the geographical boundaries of the school district if the parent or legal guardian notifies the public school in writing that the parent or legal guardian intends to delay enrolling the child in kindergarten for only that school year."  The question is, "Does this mean (if this bill becomes law) that every parent in Michigan (including parents who intend to use private school or homeschooling) needs to contact their local public school in writing to tell them their child will not be participating in the public school at the age of five?"  To answer that question for homeschoolers, we received an email from the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) giving their view on the wording regarding the notification requirement for homeschoolers in S.B. 285.   Q. MDE does not currently require reporting by homeschool parents pursuant to section 1561(3)(f), right? In any case, will MDE require reporting by homeschool parents as to whether they are homeschooling their kindergartener if SB 285 (S-2) is enacted? A (from MDE):  Correct.  MDE will require reporting as we currently do…which is that we don’t.   Q. Now…just to be perfectly clear, what is MDE’s response as to whether MDE will require homeschool parents to report that they are homeschooling their child based on the S-3 version of SB 285? A. (from MDE): There are NO reporting requirements for any (homeschooled) child. Enjoy your sunny weekend!   The options under S.B. 285 seem to be: 1. Comply with the exemptions (a) or (e) and educate your child at home for kindergarten pursuant to one of those exemptions (no registration or opt-out requirement) OR 2. Send your child to public school for kindergarten or file an opt-out for kindergarten with the public school (registration).   While MiCHN cannot provide legal advice (HSLDA can), based on advice we’ve received from our trusted team of legal advisors; we're going to take this statement from the MDE at face value and proceed with the assumption that S.B. 285 does NOT require any notification to the state if you intend to homeschool your child at age five. Again, the bill still needs to pass the House and be signed by the governor into law before it is binding. We are still opposed to the entire bill, and would love to see it die altogether, but if that doesn't happen, we believe we have the best scenario possible given the circumstances. With all that is being considered by the legislature in Michigan regarding our education laws, we highly recommend that all homeschooling families in Michigan become paid members of Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA.org). For a mere $135 a year, they will provide legal counsel and representation. If you retain your own lawyer, you will pay more than that for the first hour of legal representation! HSLDA consists of the best team of constitutional attorneys in the country who specialize in homeschooling law. If any questions arise regarding your legal homeschooling status, they will take care of it. It is a wonderful peace of mind for all homeschooling families. Regarding S.B. 285, first, we want to thank God, and second, we want to thank you! Your collective voices WERE HEARD! Legislators in response to your many phone calls, visits, and emails, created an opt-out in this bill for all parents who do not wish to send their child to public school at age five, and now we have written confirmation that homeschoolers who intend to teach their children at home are exempt from notification as well! Your voice matters and it IS being heard! We are so thankful for all of you standing with MiCHN as we stand with you! If you'd like to contribute financially to our ongoing efforts, this would be a great time, and you may do so here: https://www.michn.org/donate God bless, Israel Wayne Vice President  Michigan Christian Homeschool Network (MiCHN)

Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Thursday is PACKED with Fun for the whole family!  We kick off the day with our  Homeschool Freedom Summit &  Kids Hands-On Fair.   Still need to register??? Click HERE to Register   Next up, we have our College & Career Fair. We have many representatives from colleges, trade schools, ministries, and other post-high school opportunities signed up to come talk with homeschooled students about options for their future. We invite you to come get a jumpstart on your future!     At 12:30 we start these awesome breakouts:   Getting Started/Homeschooling 101 Seminar Identifying Rocks with Patrick Nurre of Northwest Treasures  & Internet Safety 101  A candid panel discussion lead by experts in the field of cyber security! Internet safety is a serious issue, but most parents feel overwhelmed, unqualified, and out of control when it comes to navigating the digital world with their kids--unsure of where to begin or how to effectively protect their family online. But it doesn't need to be this way. 2:00pm opens our Used Curriculum Sale & YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR EXPO   We end our night with KEYNOTE #1 - Speaker Spotlights On Thursday evening, each of our featured speakers will be sharing a brief 5 to 10 minute introduction of themselves and the topics they are most passionate about, so that conference attendees will have a better idea of which sessions they might want to attend on Friday & Saturday. You won't want to miss this amazing lineup of INCH 2024 speakers! Meet Brant Hansen, Kevin Swanson, Phylicia Masonheimer, Andrew Pudewa, Kim Sorgius, Ginny Yurich, and more! -- ALL IN ONE FAST-PACED EVENING of "TED-Talk" like Speaker Spotlights!   See you there!   

Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate It's HERE!!! Conference Sessions & Schedules Are Up! Download it HERE   Still need to register??? Click HERE to Register   Brant Hansen is doing a special session just for dads on Saturday morning titled “The Men We Need”.You can read that session description HERE. Kevin Swanson, the founder and director of Generations, will be presenting some powerful sessions at the 2024 INCH Conference! You can view the descriptions of his sessions on his speaker page HERE. Dr. Carol Swain will share her story about how she came from poverty to being a university professor. Today, she is a strong supporter of homeschooling. Check out her sessions HERE. We love our Michigan mama, Ginny Yurich! She will be encouraging you to the brim! Check out her session options HERE.   Standing Up for Our Kids & Updates on Michigan Homeschool Law   Click HERE  to register your teen.  AFTER you register, make sure to submit your teen survey, deadline for the survey (and to get a t-shirt) is April 19th!   

Get Started HERE! History of Homeschooling in Michigan Donate Happy Spring! There's a LOT going on in April...  and then the INCH Conference is coming up in May... May 9-11 is only 1 month away!!!! If you're not yet registered, there's no better time. Read all about it and register here: INCH 2024: 40TH ANNUAL MICHIGAN HOMESCHOOL CONFERENCE As the legislature is returning this week from a two week spring break, we wanted to draw your attention to Senate Bill 285 which would require mandatory kindergarten for every 5 year old in Michigan...  Why does this matter to homeschoolers? NOTE: This bill has already passed out of the Senate Education Committee and is ready for a vote on the Senate floor-- which we've been told could happen this week!  Please contact your senator and ask them to oppose this bill. While you are at it, please remind them that you would also like them to oppose any homeschool regulation bills that may be presented in the future. S.B. 285 would change Michigan’s compulsory attendance law (currently from ages 6-16) and would require ALL 5-year-olds in Michigan to have formal academic instruction (either in school or at home). If you choose the homeschool option, you would be required by law to begin teaching the required 9 academic subjects in an organized educational manner to your child as soon as they turn 5. And we at MiCHN believe this choice of when to begin formal instruction should be made by parents, not the State.   HSLDA has also weighed in on this issue HERE. Also important to note: even if you homeschool, you will be required to help pay the estimated $43.3 million dollars of additional annual tax this will cost for new students entering the public school system because of this law. Find your Senator HERE. MiCHN responds to this issue HERE. Track the bill HERE. Please continue to pray and respectfully reach out to your legislators via emails, calls, or letters. Remember, the Michigan Senate has been on break, but returns today: April 9!  We encourage you to contact them right away, as they may bring this bill up for a vote as soon as they are back in session. Homeschool Registration Bill  Although no actual bill has been submitted yet, we know multiple drafts have been written, and MiCHN continues to closely monitor proposed legislation to regulate homeschooling in Michigan by requiring registration for all homeschool families. (This would also affect private schools and Christian education programs.) Stay informed on the latest updates, and prepare to defend your right to freely educate your children, by attending one of these  upcoming Homeschool Freedom Forums, being held around the state: Mon, April 15th – Charlotte/Eaton County – CLICK for Facebook event Flyer HERE Tues, April 16th – Taylor/Wayne County – CLICK for Facebook event Flyer HERE Mon, April 22nd – Flushing/Genesee County – CLICK for Facebook event Flyer HERE You'll hear from several leaders in the Michigan homeschool movement, including author and speaker Israel Wayne from MICHN, State Rep. Jaime Green, CTV's Eileen McNeil or James Muffett, Salt & Light Global's Katherine Bussard, and more!   In case you are interested to know more about what happens at our Homeschool Freedom Forums held around the state, this recording was made at our Grand Rapids event last month, featuring Rep. Jaime Greene (House Education Committee Vice-Chair.) You may watch the recording HERE. Find an Education Freedom Forum Near You:   Monday: April 15th at 6:30 PM - Eaton County Real Life Church 1848 S. Cochran Ave. Charlotte, MI 48813 Tuesday, April 16th at 6:30 PM - Wayne County Metro City Church-Taylor Campus 21080 Penn St. Taylor, MI 48180 Monday, April 22nd at 10 AM - Genesee County Trinity Baptist Church 4222 Elms Rd, Flushing, MI 48433 Monday, April 22nd at 1 PM Bay City/Midland area - Location TBD Watch for further details Monday, April 22nd at 7 PM Alpena area- Location TBD Watch for further details AND DON'T MISS THIS ONE: THURSDAY, MAY 9th, 9 AM - Noon The Homeschool Freedom Summit @ the 2024 INCH Conference At Mount Hope Church in Lansing - 202 Creyts Rd  (STAY TUNED FOR MORE DETAILS -- PLAN NOW TO ATTEND!)       Coming up this Saturday, April 13, a Call to Prayer at the Capitol: What: Join thousands of people across the nation on the same day to stand and fast and pray for the children, and for America to be turned back to God!  When:  Saturday, April 13th, 1:00-3:00pm Where: Michigan State Capitol Building Who:  Citizens passionate about protecting family values in Michigan We will STAND & PRAY with families at every state capitol across the nation on April 13th. If this is America's last stand, WE MUST STAND. One day. One nation. 50 states. The attack on the children in our country has gone too far. We have had enough. It's time to take a stand in prayer, fasting, and using our voices! Join us with your families for a historic day on April 13, 2024, as we gather to PRAY, take communion, and STAND for truth in every state capital and Washington, D.C.! DETAILS & REGISTRATION HERE     Also happening this Saturday, April 13, in Holland, Political Leadership Academy for anyone wondering what you can do to make a difference in the political arena: This is ideal for anyone considering running for office, for campaign volunteers, interns, ALL CANDIDATES and potential candidates, current elected officials, clergy, citizens hungry for wisdom about how our political world works and how to be more effective in it! LEARN MORE & REGISTER HERE     On Wednesday, April 24, at Spring Arbor University, consider attending this special event:Coach Joe Kennedy:  He Stood for Christ by Taking a Knee We are bringing Coach Kennedy, the coach who prayed after every game.   His story truly is a Daniel in the lion's den type of story.  He was fired, and his legal case went all the way to the Supreme Court.  His strength of conviction and character is an inspiration!   William Wagner will be explaining the important constitutional significance of the Supreme Court's decision.   The event is free.  Feel free to invite others who you think would be interested!  We would appreciate RSVPs by April 17: The web address to RSVP is  arbor.edu/kennedy  April 24, 2024 at Spring Arbor University's McDonald Athletic Center 12:30pm - Coaches and Athletes  5:30pm - Students and Community Members From the time he began coaching high school football in 2008, Coach Joe Kennedy made a covenant with God to take a knee in prayer on the field after every game.  In 2015, this decision cost him his job. The Coach challenged the decision and was thrust in the spotlight.  His case is one of the most important religious liberty cases in recent history.  After a seven-year legal battle, the Supreme Court decided the case in his favor on June 27, 2022.  Kennedy’s story of faith, courage, and determination captured the attention of the nation.  Come, hear his story.     Our freedoms are being threatened on many sides... our freedom of religion, our freedom of speech, our freedom to direct the upbringing, education, and care of our own children. Please be in prayer, take action by reaching out to your elected officials, and plan to join other homeschoolers from around the state as we talk about these issues at our upcoming Homeschool Freedom Forums, as well as at the INCH Conference on May 9th-11th!     May the Lord bless and keep you, The MiCHN Legislative Team