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 tone
• The importance of dads being present and committed, not perfect, in their children's spiritual and moral development
• Practical leadership: showing up, saying "I'm in," and not leaving all duties to your wife

Timestamps:

• 00:13 - Welcome and purpose of the series for Christian dads
• 01:11 - Ownership, presence, and setting the tone in your home
• 03:54 - Joshua’s declaration: leading with conviction
• 05:09 - The importance of dad’s presence and commitment over perfection
• 08:00 - Starting where you are, leadership begins with showing up

-------------------

CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORK

• Submit 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 SUBSCRIBE

• Join OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

Episode 8: Testing Requirements for Oregon Homeschoolers

This 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 tests
• Approved standardized tests
• Qualifications for test administrators
• Legal benchmarks and results interpretation
• Special considerations for students with disabilities

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Overview of Oregon homeschool testing
• 01:20 - Exceptions and special cases
• 02:24 - Approved tests and administration
• 04:14 - Post-test procedures and benchmarks
• 06:12 - Special needs considerations

In This Episode: 

Summary of Homeschool Law: https://oceanetwork.org/summary-homeschool-law/

-------------------
CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORK
Submit 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 SUBSCRIBE
Join OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115
Spotify: 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 Jesus
• Aligning discipline with spiritual growth
• The role of prayer in family life

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: Faith in parenting
00:36 - Eternal spiritual goals vs. behavior focus
03:09 - Compassionate discipline and spiritual understanding
09:23 - Prayer's significance in daily challenges
12:26 - Teaching children the importance of prayer

-------------------
CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORK
Submit 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 SUBSCRIBE
Join OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115
Spotify: 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 Topics

• The importance of an eternal perspective in homeschooling
• Homeschooling as a lifestyle of discipleship
• Overcoming challenges with faith and prayer
• Practical habits for a faith-centered education

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction to faith-based homeschooling

04:01 - Defining an eternal perspective in education

09:21 - Practical habits: starting each day with Bible and prayer

16:53 - Trusting God's faithfulness through trials

19:00 - Closing thoughts and encouragement

-------------------
CONNECT WITH OCEANETWORK
Submit 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 SUBSCRIBE
Join OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SP1af72CBdQorGDryffm2?si=73e2d7b6cec34837

This 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.

Takeaways

• Know 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.)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Ask Ocean Network Episode

00:31 Understanding the Letter of Intent for Homeschooling

01:41 Oregon Law Requirements for Homeschooling

04:18 Submitting the Letter of Intent: Best Practices

06:20 Final Thoughts and Resources for Homeschooling Families

Mentioned 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 OCEANETWORK
Submit 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 SUBSCRIBE
Join OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115
Spotify: 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.

• What Capitol Day looked like on the ground
• Why in-person legislative engagement matters
• The impact of homeschool families showing up at the Capitol
• Updated homeschool statistics shared with lawmakers
• How families can continue advocating beyond one event
• What’s coming next, including Apple Pie Day

00:00 Capitol Day Overview
01:53 Highlights and Takeaways
07:24 Conversations with Lawmakers
10:27 Resources and Next Steps for Homeschool Freedom
14:08 Future Events and Continued Engagement

Mentioned 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 OCEANETWORK
Submit 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 SUBSCRIBE
Join OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115
Spotify: 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.

Takeaways

• Effective engagement with legislators
• Impact of personal stories on legislators
• Mistakes to avoid when engaging with lawmakers
• Consistent engagement for influence
• Positive influence and defense against bad legislation

Chapters

• 00:00 Engaging with Legislators
• 06:25 Impact of Freedom Watch Team's Efforts
• 12:22 Consistent Engagement for Influence

Mentioned 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 OCEANETWORK
Submit Questions: https://oceanetwork.org/podcast-question-comment/
Sign Up for Updates and a FREE Homeschool Magazine - https://oceanetwork.org/signup/
Website: https://oceanetwork.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschooloregon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homeschooloregon/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolinginoregon

LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Join OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115
Spotify: 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.

Takeaways

• The 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.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Freedom Watch Team
• 01:02 Legislative Monitoring and Advocacy
• 04:26 Engagement with Legislators
• 08:12 Importance of Capital Day
• 13:55 Encouraging Participation in Legislative Processes

Mentioned 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 OCEANETWORK
Submit 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 SUBSCRIBE
Join OCEANetwork at the Lighthouse!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oceanetwork202
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lighthouse-homeschooling-in-oregon-with-oceanetwork/id1874537115
Spotify: 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 Oregon
• Interviews with homeschool leaders and parents
• Accurate and complete information about homeschool laws and requirements
• Discussions about homeschool freedom in Oregon and nationwide
• Encouragement with homeschool how-to's and family discipleship
• And 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/