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Homelink to close

District to close Homelink Parent Partnership program next school year

Walla Walla Public Schools is closing the Homelink Parent Partnership program at the end of the 2014-2015 school year due to declining enrollment and limited state funding. The Homelink Program provides supplemental curriculum and instruction in a public school setting to enhance the course work parents are providing their homeschool students.

The Homelink program currently serves 27 Full-time Equivalent (FTE) students in kindergarten through 8th grade at the Berney Elementary School campus. The program was established in 1997 and during its peak averaged nearly 160 FTE.

Changes to Alternative Learning Experience laws (WAC 392-121-182) during the 2011-13 Legislative biennium have contributed to a steady decline in enrollment which makes the program no longer sustainable, according to Assistant Superintendent Dr. Linda Boggs.

“New state legislation eliminated funding to homeschool parents for supplemental educational experiences which averaged $1200 per student each year,” Boggs said. “The changes also require more regulatory accountability and compliance from homeschool parents and Homelink which have negatively impacted the program.”

Homelink currently provides science, technology, and art instruction and curriculum. Homelink parents will be briefed on next year’s educational options for their children within the existing Walla Walla Public Schools system.   

WALLA WALLA PUBLIC SCHOOLS • 364 South Park St. • Walla Walla, WA 99362 • Phone: 509-527-3000 • Fax: 509.529.7713

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