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- Homeschoolers in Louisiana 4-H
The LSU AgCenter 4-H program offers many educational opportunities for Louisiana school children. Many 4-H club activities are held in school settings – including public, private and charter schools. In addition, 4-H enrollment is available and encouraged for homeschooled students.
Belonging to 4-H gives homeschooled students access to the many resources of the 4-H program and the expertise of AgCenter scientists and extension agents, according to Janet Fox, head of the 4-H Youth Development Department.
Homeschooled youth can participate in 4-H camps, conferences, and competitive and educational events. Their leaders can borrow educational resources such as robotics kits and sewing machines and use curriculum materials such as for the Youth Wetlands Program.
“Through 4-H they get a chance to meet a wide range of people and enhance their social skills,” Fox said.
According to 4-H records, there are 608 homeschooled 4-H members in 29 clubs in Louisiana. Twenty-four of the state’s 64 parishes report having homeschool clubs.
Additionally, homeschooled students are in 4-H activities across the state, including special projects such as shooting sports, healthy living and dog care.
Many homeschooling support organizations provide links to local 4-H groups on their websites and describe the benefits of 4-H to homeschooling parents. For example, the Southwest Louisiana Christian Home Educators Fellowship provides a link to the Calcasieu (Parish) Home School 4-H Club.
Linda Foster Benedict, Editor
The LSU AgCenter and the LSU College of Agriculture