Homeschool Heroes: How Decorah's HSAP Connects and Supports Families

Your contribution today guarantees Decorah News is asking the questions tomorrow. Act now. DECORAH — For more than 30 years, the Decorah Community School District's Home School Assistance Program (HSAP) has provided vital support to families choosing to homeschool, serving as both an educational safety net and a springboard for enrichment and connection. The program began in response to a growing need from parents who wanted to homeschool but weren't sure where to start. It has since grown into a thriving program serving students across several local districts. HSAP offers academic support, community experiences and individualized encouragement tailored to each family's needs. "The program kind of functions like a co-op," said HSAP coordinator and supervising teacher Kelly Johnson, who, along with colleague Bonnie Johnson, supports all current HSAP families. "Parents are in charge of the core curriculum at home, but we're here to supplement, provide resources and help monitor student progress without the pressure of standardized tests." Each supervising teacher is assigned a group of HSAP students. Together, they serve 62 students so far this year, offering activities and family support across a variety of subjects and grade levels. From art classes to book clubs to casual game days at Impact Coffee, the Decorah HSAP has become a hub for enrichment and social connection. "One of our recent art classes had 23 kids in it," Kelly Johnson said. "That tells you something. Kids want to be together, doing meaningful work." One of the defining features of the Decorah HSAP is its flexible, family-first approach. While the state of Iowa allows five legal homeschooling pathways, the HSAP provides an organized option that still gives families autonomy. One example lies in their personalized approach to education, focusing on connection and growth rather than standardized testing. "We don't require standardized testing," said Kelly Johnson. "Instead, we meet regularly with families, at least four times per quarter — two of those face-to-face. We have conversations, observe students and ask them to share what they've been working on." This method of progress monitoring emphasizes individual development over rigid benchmarks. "Yes, we want kids to read, write and do math," Johnson said. "But we also want them to be kind, compassionate and collaborative. Those are equally important." HSAP families have access to a wide range of resources, including curriculum materials, classroom supplies and co-op classes and labs. Much of the program's strength comes from partnerships with local organizations such as Luther College, Vesterheim Museum, Winneshiek County Conservation and area businesses. "It's about balance," said supervising teacher Bonnie Johnson. "Every family has a different reason for homeschooling and a different way they want to do it. We're their support." The HSAP also assists families during emergencies. Four families have joined the program unexpectedly this year due to life changes, and the staff provides ready-to-go packets and guidance to ease those transitions. While the formal enrollment deadline is typically Sept. 15, Kelly Johnson said the program tries to remain flexible. "If there's space, we'll take kids throughout the year, depending on the situation," she said. The program is funded through a combination of state and local taxes, receiving roughly 30% of what is allotted per public school student. Curriculum materials and equipment, such as laptops, are loaned to participating families. Despite its success, HSAP leaders say outdated stereotypes persist. "There's this idea that homeschooled kids are just at home all day," Kelly Johnson said. "But that couldn't be further from the truth, especially in Decorah. These kids are out in the community all the time. We have such a unique and diverse group." Another misconception is that homeschoolers are academically disadvantaged. "Colleges don't require a high school diploma or GED from homeschool students," Johnson said. "They want a transcript. Homeschool families can compile that just like traditional schools do. Colleges are very happy to accept homeschool applicants." The program's biggest challenge, according to Bonnie Johnson, is time. "We'd love more time to offer even more to our students," she said. "They're eager to learn and be together, and it's such a blessing to be part of their education." Kelly Johnson agreed, noting the diversity of needs and interests among participating families. "Sometimes we throw ideas out there and see who bites," she said. "We also offer adult support classes for navigating challenges. It's about supporting the whole family." While potential legislative changes could affect the future of programs like HSAP, both teachers remain optimistic. "We just want to keep offering the same quality programming we have now," Kelly Johnson said. "Homeschooling is growing, and so is our sense of community." To families considering homeschooling, she offered simple advice: "Have a bit of a plan, but know that we're here to help. If you have the desire, you can do it—and you don't have to do it alone." For more information about the Decorah Home School Assistance Program, including enrollment details, visit the Decorah HSAP website.