Homeschool Resources for Parents in Wilmington, NC

Created 7/2024

Homeschooling is on the rise in the Wilmington area. To support our local homeschooling community, we’ve compiled a list of valuable resources, groups, and meetups available. Whether you are new to homeschooling, new to the area or just looking to connect, I hope this helps you!

*Disclaimer at the bottom

Overview

When homeschooling in North Carolina, there are several key facts and regulations that parents should be aware of.

Here’s a helpful overview:

• When to Enroll: In the state of North Carolina, children legally do not need to enroll until the age of 7. (Ref: DPI website)
• Naming Your School: Once you select a name, you cannot change it. This school name will be printed on your childs High School Diploma, so name wisely.
• Notification: Parents must submit a Notice of Intent to the local school district superintendent by August 15th each year or within 30 days of beginning to homeschool.
• Annual Testing: Students in grades 3-8 and once in high school must take a standardized test each year. The results must be kept on file and are not submitted to the school district.
• Subjects to Teach: The required subjects include reading, writing, spelling, grammar, mathematics, science, and social studies. Additional subjects such as art, music, and physical education are recommended but not required.
• Curriculum Flexibility: Parents have the freedom to choose any curriculum that meets their educational goals. This includes online programs, charter schools, or traditional textbooks. Some popular options are:
  • Classical Conversations, Inc.
  • The Good and the Beautiful
• Attendance Records: Maintain a log of attendance with the number of days/hours of instruction. North Carolina requires 180 days of instruction per year.

Local Groups/ Co-Ops

1. Carolina Kids Co-Op
   • An outdoor, secular, academic co-op serving children from preschool through high school. CKC offers a unique way to learn and has multiple co-op locations across the Carolinas and has Wilmington and Surf City, NC groups.
   • Website: Carolina Kids Co-Op
2. Christian Homeschool Center (CHC)
   • An educational tutorial program located in Wilmington, NC for homeschooling families with children in grades K-12 offering semester and year-long core and elective classes to supplement your homeschooling year. CHC is hosted by Christ the King church located at 500 Kenwood Ave. 
   • Website: Christian Homeschool Center
3. Christian Home Educators of Wilmington (CHEW) Co-Op
   • CHEW is a network of families from a variety of backgrounds and denominations who desire to build each other up and promote homeschooling within our community. Their mission is to provide support for Christian home-educating families in Southeastern NC through encouragement, sharing of information, educational experiences, and fellowship. CHEW has been supporting Wilmington area homeschool families for over 30 years.
   • Website: CHEW Co-Op
4. EQUIP 210
   • EQUIP 210 is a K-12 Christian Educational Movement equipping children in their kingdom identity and calling through dynamic Core curriculum, Bible, and Equipping Electives. Some of these electives include Entrepreneurialism, Biblical Citizenship, Film, Video, Healthy Social Media Skills, Graphic Design, Culinary Arts, Music, Art, Song Writing, Programming, and more. Our program is for parents looking to truly equip their children to walk through life with a biblical worldview, truly experience a relationship with God through Jesus, and learn to excel in their God given identity and calling. Our model has multiple options ranging from a 4 day full time model to a 2 day a week model. All classes are taught by trained and accredited teachers and it is a drop off, full day program.
   • Website: EQUIP 210
5. Farm School by the Sea
   • Farm School by the Sea offers nature-based early childhood education programs for children ages 0-12. Located at Seahorse Stables Equestrian along the Cape Fear coast, students have the unique opportunity to explore and learn about the natural world around them among 12-acres of pastures, pine forests, coastal habitats, and barnyard friends.
   • Website: Farm School by the Sea
6. School of Wonder
   • The School of Wonder is a private elementary school in Wilmington, NC inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach. Our child-led, emergent curriculum celebrates the individuality of each child. The School of Wonder provides a safe, nurturing environment for children grades kindergarten through sixth. In addition to our full-time program, we offer a hybrid program for families interested in their children being part of our community 2-3 days per week.
   • Website: School of Wonder
7. Three Pines Project (previously known as Nature Connect NC)
   • Three Pines Project began as Nature Connect in 2016 as a response to the question, “Who is going to protect our planet if children don’t have a connection to the outdoors?” Brinkley Hutchings’ vision as the founder of Nature Connect has helped connect people of all ages to the natural world. That legacy carries on through 3P as we continue to meet people where they are and provide quality programming across three counties
   • Website: Three Pines Project
8. Tidal Learning of Wilmington
   • Website: Tidal Learning of Wilmington
9. Wilmington CIRCLE
   • Welcome to the greater Wilmington, NC chapter of CIRCLE (Children Involved in a Respectful Co-operative Learning Environment). The co-op is an all-inclusive, secular homeschool community and does not discriminate against anyone regarding religion, politics, race, gender, age, educational methods, or other differentiating factors. The group is open to families seeking a respectful co-operative learning environment and community. All ages are welcome, from infants through adults.
   • Website: Wilmington CIRCLE
   • Facebook: Wilmington CIRCLE
10. Wilmington, NC Area Homeschoolers Facebook Community
    • An online community for homeschool families in Wilmington. They offer regular meetups, field trips, and social events.
    •  Wilmington, NC Area Homeschoolers

Free Meet-Up Groups

1. Carolina Beach Homeschool Community | Facebook
   • CBHC is a tribe of parents who are dedicated to building fulfilling relationships within their community. Meet ups range from park dates to beach days to hikes in the State Park. Join us for all the fun!

Educational Resources

1. New Hanover County Public Library
   • Resources: Access to a wide range of books, educational programs, and online resources tailored for homeschoolers.
   • Programs: Homeschool workshops, reading clubs, and educational events.
   • Website: NHC Library
2. Cape Fear Museum
   • Resources: Offers educational programs and hands-on learning experiences for homeschool families.
   • Programs: Science and history workshops, interactive exhibits, and special homeschool days.
   • Website: Cape Fear Museum
3. Cape Fear Community College – Career & College Promise
   • Are you a homeschool student looking to jumpstart your college education? Join our Career and College Promise (CCP) program! Designed for high school juniors and seniors, our program offers a unique opportunity to earn college credits while completing high school.
   • Cape Fear Community College – Homeschool Students

Online Support

1. Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)
   • Description: Provides legal support and resources for homeschooling families.
   • Website: HSLDA.com
2. Khan Academy
   • Description: Offers free online courses covering a wide range of subjects for all grade levels.
   • Website: Khan
3. Time4Learning
   • Description: An online curriculum provider that offers interactive lessons for homeschool students.
   • Website: Time4Learning

Extra Curriculars

1. Cardinals Sports (Middle + High Schoolers)
2. Ecological Marine Adventures (Surf City, NC)
3. Port City Gymnastics

Homeschooling can be a rewarding journey, and with the right support and resources, you can create a fulfilling educational experience for your children. We hope this guide helps you connect with the local homeschooling community and find the tools you need to succeed. If you know of any other resources or groups, feel free to reach out and let us know!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is intended for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information presented, individual circumstances and requirements may vary. Readers are encouraged to conduct further research and consult with relevant educational professionals or organizations to determine the best resources and approaches suitable for their specific needs. The inclusion of any organization or resource in this post does not constitute an endorsement by [Your Website Name] or its contributors. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the use of information provided herein.