Blog

NCAA Declaration Process for Homeschoolers
Homeschoolers have been accepted and excelled in the NCAA ranks for years! If you’re considering this for your homeschooled student-athlete, it’s a journey that can

Journey to 250 – Black History
It’s the month set aside to honor the contributions that black Americans have made to this country. The fingerprints of many that have gone before

Homeschool Day at the Capitol: Advocacy in Action
HEAV’s advocacy day at the Virginia General Assembly this session has been both steady and effective–last week’s Day at the Capitol and Homeschool Meet-and-Greet offered

Public Funding and Other Bills
We are into the fourth week of the 2026 60-day legislative session. Legislative Snapshot: The last day for general bill submissions was Friday, January 23.

Winter Science: How Animals Stay Warm
January in Virginia has delivered a true taste of winter this year. After recent snow, ice, and subzero wind chills, many families are still feeling

Legislative Session in Full Swing
January 23, 2026 — The 2026 legislative session began on January 14th and is in full swing. The HEAV legislative team has reviewed 2,393 bills

Musicians from Virginia: Journey to 250
Can you hear that? It’s a phenomenal lineup of talented musical artists from our wonderful state, Virginia! As we continue on our Journey to 250,

A Win for Homeschool Families: Privacy Safeguarded and State Guidance Clarified
What HB2598 and Superintendent Memo 001-26 Mean for Your Family HEAV is pleased to announce that, following its advocacy and the passage of HB2598, Superintendent’s

Young Entrepreneur Business Pitch Competition
Ignite Your Business Dream: From Idea to Impact Have a business idea you can’t stop thinking about? A product, service, or solution that deserves the

2026 Homeschooling Numbers on the Rise in Virginia
Homeschooling in Virginia continues to grow. Today, after four FOIA requests over two months, HEAV has received the official 2025–2026 homeschool numbers for the school year.

Privacy Concerns NOVA: Fairfax, Prince William, and Arlington
12/22/25 Update: Prince William families affected by the privacy breach should expect no further communication from Hazel Health. HEAV has been advised that the following

Nativity Art: The Journey to the Manger
The final days before Christmas can so easily slip into hurry—lists, errands, last-minute preparations, and the constant feeling that we are running just a bit

Prepare for the General Assembly Session
The 2026 General Assembly session begins January 14 and will last 60 days. Your government affairs team is already hard at work—meeting with key leaders,

Do I Need a Homeschool Co-op?
Once you’ve chosen homeschooling, the next steps can be tricky. Figuring out if you need a co-op and how the programs available can help you

Homeschool Cyber Security Opportunities: Inside the VA HS Cyber Cup
Cyber Security Challenge: Capture the Flag If your homeschooler is fascinated by technology, puzzles, or cybersecurity, the VA HS Cyber Cup is an event you won’t
Sheri Payne
HEAV
Sheri Payne Sheri is a homeschool support group leader, former history and government teacher, co-op leader, writer, and speaker. She is currently the director of

Anne Miller
HEAV
Anne Miller Anne Miller is president and executive director of the Home Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV), where she has served Virginia’s homeschool community for

Homeschool Thanksgiving Science
Thanksgiving is a season full of warmth—family gathered together, favorite recipes passed down through generations, and a table filled with the familiar tastes of fall.

Take a Hike Day in Your Homeschool
November 17 is National Take a Hike Day, a perfect excuse to lace up your boots, grab your water bottle, and head outdoors with your

Jessica Parnell
Bridgeway Academy/Edovate Learning Corp.
Jessica Parnell Jessica Parnell, CEO of Edovate Learning Corp, is a national advocate for “learning without walls” and the author of the Unlocking Your Child’s

Homeschool Literature Spotlight: Margaret Sidney
If you’ve ever read Five Little Peppers and How They Grew, you already know the warmth and charm that Margaret Sidney brought to her storytelling.