Blog
Cherry Blossom Nature Study for Spring Homeschool
Cherry blossom season arrives quietly, blooms brilliantly, and then—almost as quickly—disappears. That fleeting beauty makes it the perfect anchor for both a cherry blossom nature
Legislative Update: Legislative Snapshot
Legislative Snapshot To date, your HEAV legislative team has reviewed 2,792 bills. We have continually monitored legislation and advocated for the homeschool community at the
Notable Women from Virginia: Journey to 250
As we continue our Virginia “Journey to 250,” we examine the lives of remarkable women from Virginia who helped shape both our Commonwealth and our
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
The Cashell Family
In a quiet corner of Virginia stands the historic Mayhurst Estate—built in 1859 by President James Madison’s great nephew Col. John Willis, adjoining James Madison’s
Black History – Journey to 250
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
Freedom Watch District Impact Summary 2024-2025
At a Glance: How HEAV Protected Homeschool Families in 2024–2025 Problems Solved: HEAV addressed 244 incidents and conflicts affecting homeschool families in Virginia and successfully
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 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
