In recent years, education has been a hot topic, sparking conversations about alternatives to public education. 

In 2021, after the pandemic, a particular school style caught the attention of millions around the nation.  

Homeschooling witnessed a dramatic increase in 2021 nationwide, with an average of 3.1 million students from grades K-12. This is from 2.5 million in 2019. It is reported that there was a 54% spike in homeschooling enrolment in the state of Ohio. 

The United States Department of Education claims that parents have a few reasons for the change: a customized curriculum to better fit the individual student, to accomplish more academically and for safety.  

Recognizing the sudden increase in homeschool students, Ashland University created a new homeschooling center in March of 2024, specifically catered to families who homeschool their children. 

Theresa Watson, the coordinator for the homeschool and classical learning center, stated, “The purpose of the homeschooling center is to bring students onto the campus of Ashland University.”  

“We also help parents figure out what curriculum works best for them, which they can borrow for two weeks from our library, and then purchase it if they like it.” 

There are currently 270 students enrolled in the program from around the state of Ohio. They offer 31 classes ranging from classical theater, debate, science, and gym class. 

This year, the center is hosting a homeschooling conference with keynote speaker Heidi St. John.  

John is a best-selling author and podcast host with over 24 million downloads worldwide. The conference will take place on November 1 in the John C. Myers Convocation Center. For more information, email [email protected].  

For more information about the homeschool and classical center, email Theresa Watson at [email protected].