Homeschooling Saskatchewan - 2024 Ultimate Starters Guide

Are you from the province of Saskatchewan dreaming about the switch to homeschooling? This guide from EZ-Teach will take you through everything you need to get you started for homeschooling Saskatchewan. Follow the links in the table of contents below or scroll on.

1. How do I legally homeschool in Saskatchewan?

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

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

4. How many students homeschool in Saskatchewan?

5. Homeschooling Organizations in Saskatchewan

6. Homeschooling Grants Saskatchewan

7. Online Homeschooling Options Saskatchewan

8. Tips for Homeschooling in Saskatchewan

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 Saskatchewan

1. How do I legally homeschool in Saskatchewan?

First of all, it is important to know that you can homeschool in Saskatchewan. It is a legal educational option, but there are certain requirements and steps you need to follow to ensure compliance with the province's regulations. Here’s a summary of the process:

A) Notification

You must notify your local school division of your intent to homeschool. This typically involves:

  • Submitting a Notification Form: This form can be obtained from your local school division.

  • Providing Educational Plan: You need to submit an educational plan that outlines the goals, subjects, and methods you will use to educate your child.

B) Approval of Education Plan

The educational plan must be approved by the school division. The plan should include:

C) Record-Keeping

You are required to maintain records of your child's education. This includes:

  • Attendance Records: Keep track of the days and hours of instruction.

  • Work Samples: Maintain samples of your child’s work to demonstrate progress.

D) Annual Progress Reports

You must submit an annual progress report to the school division. This report should include:

  • Assessment of Progress: An evaluation of your child’s progress based on the educational plan.

  • Standardized Tests or Portfolio Review: Depending on the school division’s requirements, you might need to include results from standardized tests or a portfolio of your child's work.

E) Follow Local Division Policies

Different school divisions might have specific requirements or additional forms to fill out. It’s essential to check with your local school division for any unique policies they may have.

F) Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities

Familiarize yourself with Saskatchewan's Education Act and regulations regarding homeschooling to ensure you are meeting all legal obligations.

Additional Resources

By following these steps, you can legally homeschool your child in Saskatchewan and provide them with a personalized and effective education.

While homeschooling is a legal option in Saskatchewan, contact the Ministry of Education to know your responsibilities.

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

As of the latest information available, Saskatchewan does not provide a specific tax credit or deduction for homeschooling expenses. Homeschooling families in Saskatchewan are generally responsible for covering the costs associated with their child's education, including curriculum materials, books, and other resources.

However, it's always a good idea to:

  • Check for Updates: Tax laws and educational policies can change, so periodically check with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education or a tax professional for any new benefits or changes to existing laws.

  • Look for Other Financial Assistance: While specific tax credits for homeschooling might not be available, you may be eligible for other child-related tax benefits like the Active Families Benefit. Also, there could be other forms of financial assistance or grants that homeschooling families might qualify for. Some educational grants and scholarships do not specify that the recipient must attend a traditional school. See our section below on grants.

  • Expense Tracking: Keep detailed records of your homeschooling expenses. While they may not be deductible, having organized records can help in other ways, such as budgeting or applying for grants.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting with a tax professional or the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) would be beneficial.

Always do some research to discover child tax credits and benefits available to you and your family.

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

Since we’ve already reviewed some of the requirements outlined by Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Education in section 1, let’s look at some other practical things you’ll need to make your homeschooling journey a success!

Homeschooling requires a mix of educational resources, organizational tools, and a conducive learning environment. Here are some practical things you'll need to effectively homeschool your child:

A) Educational Materials

  • Curriculum: Select a curriculum that aligns with your child’s learning style and educational goals. This may include textbooks, workbooks, and online programs. Remember to review Saskatchewan’s curriculum standards here - you can see what is expected at each grade.

  • Books: A variety of books for reading, reference, and research, including fiction and non-fiction.

  • Educational Software and Apps: Tools for subjects like math, science, language arts, and more.

  • Manipulatives: Hands-on learning tools like math manipulatives, science kits, and art supplies.

B) Learning Environment

  • Dedicated Learning Space: A quiet, organized space with a desk or table for your child to work.

  • Comfortable Seating: Ergonomic chairs to support long periods of sitting and studying.

  • Storage Solutions: Shelves, bins, and organizers for books, supplies, and materials.

  • Good Lighting: Adequate lighting to reduce eye strain and create a comfortable study environment.

C) Technology

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

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

  • Internet Access: Reliable internet connection for research, online courses, and educational videos.

D) Teaching Aids

  • Whiteboard or Chalkboard: For teaching lessons, writing down ideas, and solving problems.

  • Educational Posters and Charts: Visual aids to reinforce concepts and make the learning space engaging.

  • Timers and Schedules: Tools to help manage time and keep your child on track with their studies.

E) Organizational Tools

  • Planner or Calendar: To plan lessons, track progress, and schedule activities. Access your FREE Homeschool Planner here from EZ-Teach.

  • Binders and Folders: For organizing worksheets, assignments, and important documents.

  • Record-Keeping System: A system to maintain attendance records, grades, and assessment results.

F) Social and Physical Activities

  • Extracurricular Activities: Enroll your child in sports, music, art classes, or other group activities to ensure social interaction and physical exercise.

  • Field Trip Supplies: Materials for educational outings, such as notebooks, cameras, and guides. Explore the Saskatchewan School Destinations guide here.

G) Support and Resources

By ensuring you have these practical items, you can create an effective and nurturing homeschooling environment for your child.

Remember to involve your kids in extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, and music.

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4. How many students homeschool in Saskatchewan?

The number of students being homeschooled in Saskatchewan can fluctuate annually based on various factors, including societal trends, public health concerns, and individual family decisions. However, to provide an accurate and current figure, it’s best to refer to the most recent data from Statistics Canada, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education, or relevant educational authorities.

As of the most recent available data from Statistics Canada, 4,662 students were homeschooled in Saskatchewan in the 2020/2021 school year, taking a slight dip down to 4,539 students in the following 2021/2022 school year.

To get the most up-to-date and accurate information on the number of homeschooled students in Saskatchewan, you can check with:

These sources will provide the latest statistics and trends regarding homeschooling in the province. Overall, however, 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 Saskatchewan

Here are some homeschooling organizations in Saskatchewan that provide support, resources, and community for homeschooling families:

Saskatchewan Home Based Educators (SHBE)

  • Website: SHBE

  • SHBE is a provincial organization that supports home-based educators through advocacy, resources, and community-building activities. They offer information on legal requirements, curriculum choices, and host an annual convention.

Saskatoon and Area Homeschool Families

  • Facebook Group: Saskatoon and Area Homeschool Families

  • This is a local support group for homeschooling families in Saskatoon and the surrounding area. They help organize field trips, co-op classes, and social events.

Home-Based Education - Regina Catholic Schools

  • Website: RCHE

  • RCHE is a group for Catholic homeschooling families in Regina. They provide educational support and may also provide social and spiritual support.

These organizations and groups can provide valuable support, resources, and networking opportunities for homeschooling families in Saskatchewan. You can also search Facebook to find other groups in your area, like “I homeschool in Saskatchewan!!

Joining a homeschool group or organization helps your kids (and you!) connect with others and make new friends.

Image Source: Artem Podrez

6. Homeschooling Grants Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, there are no specific grants provided directly by the provincial government for homeschooling. However, some local school divisions may offer financial support or reimbursements for certain educational expenses related to homeschooling. Additionally, there are other potential sources of funding and resources that homeschooling families can explore:

Potential Sources of Financial Support

Local School Divisions

  • Some school divisions in Saskatchewan might offer financial support or reimbursements for homeschooling families. This support could include covering the costs of curriculum materials, educational resources, or extracurricular activities. It’s important to check with your local school division to see if they offer any such programs.

Homeschooling Organizations

  • Some homeschooling support organizations might help members find financial assistance, scholarships, or grants. For example, the Saskatchewan Home-Based Educators (SHBE) might have information on any available financial support or can guide you toward potential resources.

Charitable Organizations and Foundations

  • There are 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.

Tax Deductions

  • While there are no direct tax credits for homeschooling expenses in Saskatchewan, homeschooling families can explore general tax deductions that may apply to their situation. Consulting with a tax professional can help identify any possible deductions. If you haven’t already, you might want to look into the Active Families Benefit.

Steps to Find and Apply for Grants

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

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

  3. Apply for Scholarships: Look for scholarships that homeschooled students are eligible for and apply accordingly.

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

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to contact your local school division, or homeschooling organizations, and consult with a financial advisor or tax professional.

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 Saskatchewan

Here are three online homeschooling options that families in Saskatchewan can consider:

A) Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre (Sask DLC)

  • Website: Sask DLC

  • Description: Sask DLC offers a variety of online courses for students from kindergarten to grade 12. The courses are designed to meet Saskatchewan curriculum standards and are taught by certified teachers. This option provides a structured program with flexibility for families to manage their schedules.

B) EZ-Teach

  • Website: Online Courses From EZ-Teach

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

C) Time4Learning

  • Website: Time4Learning

  • Description: Time4Learning offers an online curriculum for pre-kindergarten through grade 12. It provides a comprehensive, interactive curriculum that covers core subjects such as math, language arts, science, and social studies. It’s designed to be flexible and self-paced, making it a good option for homeschooling families.

These online options provide a range of resources and support to help families in Saskatchewan meet their educational goals while homeschooling.

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

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8. Tips for Homeschooling in Saskatchewan

Homeschooling can be a rewarding and enriching experience for both parents and children. Here are the top five tips for homeschooling in Saskatchewan to help you get started and stay on track:

A) Understand Legal Requirements

  • Notify Local School Division: Ensure you submit the necessary notification forms to your local school division.

  • Create a Comprehensive Educational Plan: Develop an educational plan that includes your curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment strategies, and get it approved by your school division.

  • Maintain Records: Keep detailed records of attendance, curriculum, and student progress to comply with legal requirements.

B) Develop a Structured Routine

  • Consistent Schedule: Establish a daily and weekly schedule that includes dedicated time for each subject, breaks, and extracurricular activities.

  • Flexible Learning: While having a routine is important, be flexible and adjust your schedule as needed to accommodate your child's learning pace and interests.

C) Utilize a Variety of Resources

  • Curriculum Options: Research and choose curriculum materials that align with your child’s learning style and educational goals. Consider a mix of textbooks, online resources, and hands-on activities.

  • Educational Tools: Use educational software, apps, and manipulatives to make learning interactive and engaging.

  • Local Libraries and Museums: Take advantage of local libraries, museums, and community resources for additional learning opportunities and enrichment activities.

D) Join Support Groups and Networks

  • Homeschooling Organizations: Connect with groups like Saskatchewan Home-Based Educators (SHBE) for support, resources, and networking opportunities.

  • Local and Online Communities: Join local homeschooling groups and online forums to share experiences, seek advice, and participate in group activities and events.

  • Extracurricular Activities: Enroll your child in sports, arts, and other community programs to provide social interaction and diverse learning experiences.

E) Focus on Your Child’s Individual Needs

  • Personalized Learning: Tailor your educational approach to fit your child's unique learning style, strengths, and interests.

  • Regular Assessments: Conduct regular assessments to monitor progress and identify areas that may need additional focus or adjustment.

  • Encourage Independence: Foster independent learning skills by giving your child opportunities to explore subjects on their own and develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

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

Let EZ-Teach help make learning easy.

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