FREE Parent Workshops (All Day)

(workshops are one hour unless otherwise noted)

Recovering Our Humanity: How Great Books Discussions Teach Students the Arts of Learning and Living — Joseph Christopherson, The Academy at Houston Christian University (10:30 am)

Description: What is the purpose of education? We are not merely machines memorizing facts in order to receive a diploma. Education should teach us what it means to be human, how to thrive in society. How a child is educated is a critical factor in shaping that child into an independent and flourishing adult. A dual-enrollment, Great Books program is an intentional way to bridge the gap between high school and college and prepare students for the rigor and responsibility of higher education. In this workshop, we will discuss how this can happen for you and your family.

Education Options 101: Finding the Right Fit Beyond Traditional School. - (11 am) Elan Page, Homeschool Our Way

Not sure what all the “new” education options actually mean—or which one might fit your child? In this session, we’ll break down today’s most common alternatives to traditional school, including microschools, hybrid programs, homeschool models, charter schools, private schools, co-ops, a la carte enrichment, and learning pods. You’ll learn what each option looks like day-to-day, the pros and trade-offs to consider, questions to ask when touring or interviewing programs, and how to match an option to your child’s learning style and your family’s schedule.

Supporting Neurodivergent Learners in Non-Traditional Settings-Anita Scott & Heather Young, Texas Homeschool Coalition (11:30 am)

Homeschooling a neurodivergent learner can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This workshop by Heather and Anita provides hands-on practices, adaptable tools, and proven approaches to help families confidently support their child’s unique learning needs.

Curriculum With Confidence: Find the Right Nonsectarian Curriculum- Then Adapt it for Your Child (and Your Schedule)-Karen Khan & Amy Kryger, The Homeschool Store (12:00 pm)

Feeling overwhelmed by curriculum choices? In this practical session, Amy Kryger and Karen Khan will walk you through a clear process for comparing and selecting curriculum that fits your child’s learning style and your family’s priorities. You’ll also learn how to adapt a program when it’s too easy, too hard, or just not clicking—and how to mix and match resources across multiple subjects and multiple kids without your week falling apart. You’ll leave with a simple framework to make confident choices (and adjustments) as your child grows.L

Learn About the New Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) Program. -Elan Page, Outschool.org (12:30 pm)

Education freedom accounts are designed to open doors, expand opportunities and give each Texas child (PreK - 12th grade) the chance to learn in the environment that fits them best. Through this program, parents who choose to enroll outside of the public school system - including a private school or homeschool - and are accepted into the program can use TEFA funds ($2,000 - $30,000) to pay for approved educational-related expenses. Come to this session to learn what this could mean for your family and/or your school if they want to participate as a school or vendor.

The Landscape of Christian Education: Discovering Today’s Innovative Models -Jonathan Edmondson, Herzog Foundation (1:00 pm)

Parents across the nation are rediscovering the power of Christ-centered education—and today’s landscape offers more choices than ever before. From traditional Christian schools to hybrid models, homeschool co-ops, microschools, and learning centers, families can find flexible, mission-driven options that fit their needs. In this session, the Herzog Foundation will help you explore these innovative models, understand what makes them thrive, and connect you to resources that make Christian education accessible in your community.

Homeschooling 101 -Anita Scott & Heather Young, Texas Homeschool Coalition (1:30 pm)

Thinking about homeschooling or just getting started? Homeschooling doesn't have to feel or be overwhelming. Join Heather and Anita for a lively, practical, and encouraging workshop where we will walk families through the foundational steps of homeschooling—covering legal requirements, daily rhythms, and next steps so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Understanding Your Educational Rights: Homeschool Laws & Education Advocacy. -Darren Jones, Esq., HSLDA (2:00 pm)

Homeschooling has grown from a barely-legal fringe movement of parents teaching their children under constant threat of prosecution to a well-recognized educational choice used by millions of families across the country. Come find out about Texas law on homeschooling (one of the best in the country!) and learn how you as a parent can help counteract the nationwide threats posed by opponents of homeschool freedom.

Understanding Dyslexia: Signs, Assessments, and Home-Based Support for Families -Crystal Burch, Burch Educational Services (2:30 pm)

Join Crystal Burch for an informative and empowering workshop focused on understanding dyslexia and how it affects reading development. This session will explore what dyslexia is (and what it is not), how it is accurately assessed and diagnosed, and why early and appropriate identification matters. Crystal will also share current, research-based reading programs designed to reshape the dyslexic brain, helping individuals become more accurate, confident, and fluent readers. Participants will leave with practical knowledge, evidence-based strategies, and a clearer pathway for supporting students with dyslexia.

The Road Map to the Education Savings Account (also known as vouchers) -Anita Scott & Heather Young, Texas Homeschool Coalition (3:00 pm)

Join Anita Scott & Heather Young from the Texas Home School Coalition as she walks you and your family through the Education Savings Account (ESA) Program? Are they the same as vouchers? What are they and how do parents access them? What do ESAs mean for homeschooling families and government regulations?