EPISODE 172 | Homeschooling in Alaska presents unique challenges due to its vastness, especially in remote areas where accessing resources and support can be difficult. Cherie, initially drawn to IDEA for its comprehensive offerings and personalized approach, eventually became a representative due to her belief in its mission. Cherie's passion for homeschooling and dedication to IDEA and others like her continue to provide support and guidance to families navigating homeschooling in Alaska's diverse landscape.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Cherie Taylor is a wife of 18 years and a mama to an 11-year-old boy. She is in her 6th year of homeschooling. She started with IDEA as a homeschool parent & parent advisory committee member. She joined the PAC to be as involved as she could be in the arena of homeschooling – something that was new to her. In July of 2020, due to the pandemic, enrollment with IDEA was quickly escalating & Cherie was hired as a part-time field rep – mainly just answering inquiries such as “How does homeschooling work?” and “How does IDEA come alongside families to support homeschooling?” In October of 2020, Cherie was hired as the full-time field rep.

She enjoys reading, baking, playing games, spending time with friends & volunteering at her church.

She also has 2 other part time jobs so, she stays very busy but, enjoys it all!

As of early 2023, Cherie’s husband is now a full-time dad-schooler. It is a team effort but he is the primary homeschooler.

QUOTABLES|

Homeschooling in Alaska with a veteran homeschool mom. (0:00)

Homeschooling experiences and perspectives. (3:55)

Homeschooling in Alaska with a focus on community support. (7:35)

Homeschooling in Alaska with limited sunlight. (12:11)

Homeschooling program and community support. (17:15)

Parenting, homeschooling, and loss. (25:53)

Non-traditional family dynamics and homeschooling. (30:47)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.