Homeschool Convention, Graduation to Attract 10,000
One of the largest U.S. homeschooling conventions is expected to draw nearly 10,000 people when it opens this month in Virginia.
The 24th Annual Home Educator's Association of Virginia (HEAV) State Convention & Educational Fair, to be held June 7-9 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, will attracts people from all over Virginia and surrounding states who wish to learn how to sharpen their skills as homeschool teachers. In addition to a variety of speakers, workshops, and vendors, the gathering will also feature a homeschool graduation ceremony for the class of 2007.
This year's convention is titled "Home Education: A Journey of Discovery."
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"With record-breaking pre-registration numbers, the convention this year promises something for everyone," explained Anne Miller, president of HEAV, in a statement. "This is the place to be for educationally minded parents."
An important aspect of the convention is to provide information for parents who are considering homeschooling as an option for their children. On June 7, there will be four free introductory sessions to equip parents to make a decision about home education alternatives. Parents can then have a free shopping period on June 9 to stock up on things they will need.
For those who are already involved in the homeschooling process, the convention has 110 varied workshops with veteran speakers. Parents can either choose to follow a track of workshops or pick and choose among the ones offered.
Among the workshops is also one of the largest exhibitions of books, educational materials, and used curricula in the country. More than 30,000 items are expected to be offered from 295 booths at the convention.
HEAV organizers encourage all homeschooling adults to attend, even if they have been educating their children for years.
"The conference this year was life changing," commented Taaron Meikle, a parent from Reston, Va., about a previous HEAV convention. "I have been homeschooling for seven years, and I had never been to a conference – what an incredible experience. I can't wait until next year!"
Some of the more notable speakers at the convention will be Ken Ham (Answers in Genesis), Dr. Emerson Eggerichs (Love and Respect Ministries), Doug Phillips (Vision Forum Ministries), Mary Hood (The Relaxed Homeschooler), Joel Salatin (Polyface Farm), Michele Zavatsky (Kids Love Travel), among several others.
A main highlight of the event is the HEAV graduation ceremony that will take place on June 9. 3,000 people are expected to attend the graduation celebration with 185 graduates walking. Most students are from Virginia, but it will include several others from outside states.
Doug Phillips, president of Vision Forum – a ministry meant to "equip the biblical family" – is the scheduled as this year's commencement speaker. He will give a commencement address entitled "Your Personal Vision of Victory."
