Lighthouse: Homeschooling in Oregon with OCEANetwork

Homeschooling high school can feel intimidating, but it does not have to be overwhelming. In this episode, we’re talking with veteran Oregon homeschool mom Sheri English about her family’s homeschool journey, what parents often overcomplicate about high school, and how to encourage teens academically, spiritually, and practically during these important years.Main Topics:Sheri English’s homeschool journey and experience homeschooling through high schoolWhat parents often overcomplicate about credits, transcripts, and academicsRedefining success and moving from teacher to coachHelping teens grow in independence, confidence, and faithTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to homeschooling high school with Sheri English00:32 - Sheri’s homeschool journey and background06:25 - Facing the fear of homeschooling high school08:54 - What parents tend to overcomplicate about high school10:50 - What success really looks like during the high school years11:53 - Moving from teacher to coach as teens grow more independent14:21 - Spiritually shepherding teens through the teen yearsLearn more about homeschooling in Oregon: https://oceanetwork.org/CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

The OCEANetwork internship program gives homeschooling teens practical experience, confidence, and valuable skills. In this episode, we’re chatting with our current interns to explore the application process, student experiences, and the benefits of real-world internships for homeschoolers. Main Topics:Overview of the OCEANetwork internship program and its benefits for homeschool teensThe application and interview process: what to expect and how to prepareHow internships foster confidence, maturity, and professional growth for teensThe importance of real-world experience beyond academics in homeschoolingAnd more!Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the OCEANetwork internship program and its value for homeschool students 00:23 - Skills developed through the internship: communication, leadership, teamwork 01:41 - Why students applied for the internship and their initial nerves 02:22 - The application process: resumes, transcripts, and interviews 03:48 - How the internship helped build confidence and prepare for future opportunities 05:09 - Advice for teens feeling unqualified or nervous 05:27 - Responsibilities and projects during the internship06:30 - Challenges faced and new skills learned during the program 09:01 - The importance of hands-on experience and preparing for life after homeschooling OCEANetwork’s internship program opens in the spring. It is currently open for the 2026 fall internship, with applications due June 16th!) Learn more and apply here: https://oceanetwork.org/internship/ -------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

Homeschool High School in Oregon (Part 2) Tips and Motivation with Shelli WanvigHear practical strategies for homeschooling high school students with Shelli Wanvig. Discover how to motivate teens and organize their educational journey effectively.Key Topics:Teaching high school subjects alongside your teensUtilizing co-ops and online courses for diverse learningMotivating students by connecting coursework to career goalsOrganizing effective high school transcriptsTimestamps:00:23 - Parental fears about teaching high school01:43 - Using tutors and online courses05:09 - Motivating students with a clear learning purpose11:21 - Tips for organizing high school transcripts15:24 - Involving dads and fostering independenceResources: https://oceanetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/High_School_Resources.pdf-------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

Homeschool High School in Oregon (Part 1) Tips, Requirements, and Planning Strategies with Shelli WanvigAre you homeschooling your teenager in Oregon and feeling overwhelmed by requirements and planning for the future? Join us in part 1 of our conversation with Shelli Wanvig from OCEANetwork as she shares practical advice on understanding state requirements, setting educational goals, and preparing transcripts—plus tips for students whether they are college-bound or pursuing other paths. In this episode:Key homeschooling laws in OregonAligning high school curriculum with future goalsCustomizing education for entrepreneurship or vocational careersDeveloping a professional high school transcriptUnderstanding CLEP, AP, and other testing optionsTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction01:00 - State requirements02:30 - Setting educational goals04:50 - Preparing students for various paths06:45 - Online courses and flexible options09:00 - Record-keeping tips11:00 - Testing options for college credit15:45 - Role of standardized tests in admissions19:00 - Final tips for testing preparationResources Document provided by Shelli Wanvig: https://oceanetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/High_School_Resources.pdf-------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

In this episode of The Lighthouse, Aaron Meyer inspires homeschooling fathers to recognize their unique gifts and strengths. Through biblical stories, he encourages dads to embrace their roles with confidence, trusting that God can use their ordinary tools for extraordinary results.Key TopicsRecognizing what you already haveSimple obedience through biblical examplesIdentifying personal skills and areas for growthEmbracing weaknesses as strengthsHonest communication with your spouseTimestamps00:12 - Introduction and theme01:12 - Applying Moses' question to homeschooling02:09 - Simon Peter’s obedience03:08 - Offering your "boat" in family life04:07 - Identifying strengths and weaknesses07:32 - Homework: Discussion with your partner08:29 - Closing encouragement-------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

In this episode of the Lighthouse series, Aaron Meyer speaks directly to Christian dads involved in homeschooling. Discover why your role as a dad is vital beyond academics, centered on faith, leadership, and intentional presence.Key topics:The true meaning of "leading your homeschool" — ownership and setting the right toneThe importance of dads being present and committed, not perfect, in their children's spiritual and moral developmentPractical leadership: showing up, saying "I'm in," and not leaving all duties to your wifeTimestamps:00:13 - Welcome and purpose of the series for Christian dads01:11 - Ownership, presence, and setting the tone in your home03:54 - Joshua’s declaration: leading with conviction05:09 - The importance of dad’s presence and commitment over perfection08:00 - Starting where you are, leadership begins with showing up-------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/ Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregon LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

Episode 8: Testing Requirements for Oregon HomeschoolersThis episode provides an overview of Oregon's homeschool testing requirements, including the necessary tests, timing, and preparation tips. It's an essential guide for both new and experienced homeschoolers seeking clarity on state regulations.Main Topics:Frequency and timing of required testsApproved standardized testsQualifications for test administratorsLegal benchmarks and results interpretationSpecial considerations for students with disabilitiesTimestamps:00:00 - Overview of Oregon homeschool testing01:20 - Exceptions and special cases02:24 - Approved tests and administration04:14 - Post-test procedures and benchmarks06:12 - Special needs considerationsIn This Episode: Summary of Homeschool Law: https://oceanetwork.org/summary-homeschool-law/-------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

In this episode, we explore how focusing on a child's spiritual development and building a personal walk with Christ can transform parenting, discipline, and family relationships. Joyce Padilla shares practical insights from her homeschooling journey, emphasizing the importance of prayer, modeling faith, and eternal versus temporal goals.Key Topics:Winning a child's heart through a relationship with JesusAligning discipline with spiritual growthThe role of prayer in family lifeTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Faith in parenting00:36 - Eternal spiritual goals vs. behavior focus03:09 - Compassionate discipline and spiritual understanding09:23 - Prayer's significance in daily challenges12:26 - Teaching children the importance of prayer-------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

Episode 6: Homeschooling with an Eternal Perspective—Wisdom from Joyce Padilla (Part 1)In this episode, Joyce Padilla shares her profound insights on homeschooling rooted in eternal values. She discusses how viewing education through a spiritual lens shapes daily family life, decision-making, and long-term discipleship. Whether you're just starting or navigating different stages, Joyce’s experience offers encouragement and practical wisdom for raising God-centered children.Key TopicsThe importance of an eternal perspective in homeschoolingHomeschooling as a lifestyle of discipleshipOvercoming challenges with faith and prayerPractical habits for a faith-centered educationTimestamps00:00 - Introduction to faith-based homeschooling04:01 - Defining an eternal perspective in education09:21 - Practical habits: starting each day with Bible and prayer16:53 - Trusting God's faithfulness through trials19:00 - Closing thoughts and encouragement-------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837This episode offers deep insights into parenting and homeschooling magnified through a biblical lens, reminding us that faith and God's grace are central to nurturing the next generation.

In this episode of The Lighthouse, we address common questions about the Letter of Intent required for homeschooling in Oregon. The discussion covers the legal requirements, best practices for submission, and reassurances for families who may have forgotten to submit their letters.TakeawaysKnow when your LOI is due.If you forgot to submit the letter, it is usually fixable by submitting it promptly.Submitting a letter of intent is straightforward and can be done via a simple letter. (We provide a PDF generator)We do not recommend using the ESD's online registration system.It's recommended to send the letter by certified mail for peace of mind.Resources are available on the OCEANetwork site to help families with the letter of intent process.Reach out to OCEANetwork for help if you encounter issues.(Note that OCEANetwork does not offer legal advice.)Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Ask Ocean Network Episode00:31 Understanding the Letter of Intent for Homeschooling01:41 Oregon Law Requirements for Homeschooling04:18 Submitting the Letter of Intent: Best Practices06:20 Final Thoughts and Resources for Homeschooling FamiliesMentioned in This Episode→ 7 Important Facts About Your Letter of Intent to Homeschool - https://oceanetwork.org/letter-of-intent-to-homeschool-in-oregon/→ Oregon Homeschool Letter of Intent PDF Generator (& list of ESD addresses) - https://oceanetwork.org/oregon-homeschool-letter-of-intent/→ Should I Use the ESD’s Online Notification Form? - https://oceanetwork.org/letter-of-intent-to-homeschool/-------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837"What if I forgot to submit the Letter of Intent? + Requirements to Consider

In this episode, we recap Capitol Day 2026 and share what happened when around 300 homeschoolers gathered at the Oregon Capitol to engage with legislators and stand for homeschool freedom.We walk through the highlights of the day, the conversations that took place with lawmakers, and why showing up in person makes a measurable difference. We also discuss the materials distributed, the questions legislators are asking about homeschooling in Oregon, and how families can remain engaged beyond a single event.Capitol Day is more than a field trip. It is a practical civics lesson. When families engage respectfully and confidently, it strengthens both our homeschool community and our ability to protect educational freedom in Oregon.In This EpisodeWhat Capitol Day looked like on the groundWhy in-person legislative engagement mattersThe impact of homeschool families showing up at the CapitolUpdated homeschool statistics shared with lawmakersHow families can continue advocating beyond one eventWhat’s coming next, including Apple Pie DayChapters00:00 Capitol Day Overview01:53 Highlights and Takeaways07:24 Conversations with Lawmakers10:27 Resources and Next Steps for Homeschool Freedom14:08 Future Events and Continued EngagementMentioned in This Episode→ NEW Homeschool Research Booklet:  https://oceanetwork.org/research-booklet/→ Capitol Field Trip Printable Pack: https://oceanetwork.org/oregon-capitol-field-trip-printable/ → Homeschool Freedom Challenge: https://oceanetwork.org/hfchallenge/→ Help with Apple Pie Day: https://oceanetwork.org/volunteer/CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

Our conversation with Wes Butler continues with a focus on practical engagement, real impact, and how homeschool families can support homeschool freedoms in Oregon. We discuss how to engage with legislators and the impact of the Freedom Watch Team's efforts in defending and expanding homeschool freedom.TakeawaysEffective engagement with legislatorsImpact of personal stories on legislatorsMistakes to avoid when engaging with lawmakersConsistent engagement for influencePositive influence and defense against bad legislationChapters00:00 Engaging with Legislators06:25 Impact of Freedom Watch Team's Efforts12:22 Consistent Engagement for InfluenceMentioned in This Episode→ How to monitor bills - https://oceanetwork.org/bills-that-impact-oregon-homeschoolers/→ Capitol Day 2026 - https://oceanetwork.org/capitol-day/→ Capitol Day Printable Pack - https://oceanetwork.org/oregon-capitol-field-trip-printable/-------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Website: https://oceanetwork.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

In this conversation, Wes Butler discusses the vital role of the Freedom Watch team at OCEANetwork in advocating for homeschooling rights and monitoring legislation.The discussion covers the team's activities during legislative sessions, the importance of community engagement through events like Capital Day, and encourages homeschool families to participate in the legislative process to ensure their voices are heard.TakeawaysThe Freedom Watch team monitors legislation affecting homeschooling.Community involvement is crucial for legislative advocacy.Short legislative sessions can introduce significant changes.Apple Pie Day fosters relationships with legislators.Engaging with local legislators is essential for homeschool families.Building relationships with staff can influence legislative outcomes.Participation in the legislative process is vital for freedom.Homeschool families can make a difference by attending events.Understanding the legislative process enhances civic engagement.Long-term relationships with legislators can benefit homeschooling.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Freedom Watch Team01:02 Legislative Monitoring and Advocacy04:26 Engagement with Legislators08:12 Importance of Capital Day13:55 Encouraging Participation in Legislative ProcessesMentioned in This Episode→ How to monitor bills - https://oceanetwork.org/bills-that-impact-oregon-homeschoolers/→ Capitol Day 2026 - https://oceanetwork.org/capitol-day/→ Capitol Day Printable Pack - https://oceanetwork.org/oregon-capitol-field-trip-printable/-------------------CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORKSubmit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregonLISTEN AND SUBSCRIBEJoin OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

Introducing the new podcast, Lighthouse: Homeschooling in Oregon with OCEANetwork!We are excited to launch this new resource for Oregon homeschoolers. Here's what to expect:Answers to your questions about homeschooling in OregonInterviews with homeschool leaders and parentsAccurate and complete information about homeschool laws and requirementsDiscussions about homeschool freedom in Oregon and nationwideEncouragement with homeschool how-to's and family discipleshipAnd more!Learn more:Capitol Day 2026 - https://oceanetwork.org/capitol-day/Get Started Homeschooling in Oregon - https://oceanetwork.org/get-started-homeschooling-in-oregon/Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/Join OCEANetwork as a Supporting Member - https://oceanetwork.org/capitol-day/