The NICHE Homeschool Day at the Capitol typically attracts about 1,000 home educating parents and students.
“Our annual event has had a tremendous impact, particularly in raising understanding among elected officials and the public about the positive value that home schooling has on the state budget and the values that are instilled in home school children,” said NICHE President Justin LaVan. “The NICHE Day at the Capitol really gives our legislators the opportunity to put a face on homeschooling.”
The morning session at the Capitol Building will include informal training for personal visits with legislators, student achievement displays, Capitol and Judicial Building tours, recognition of homeschoolers from the House and Senate floors and a proclamation at 10:00 a.m. by Iowa Governor Terry Branstad.
The afternoon session, which will take place at the Embassy Suites Hotel, 101 E. Locust St., will feature additional interactive learning and several presentations, including WHO Radio talk show host Jan Mickelson, who will speak on “Stuff What Ain’t True” about Abraham Lincoln and other matters of historical importance Pastor, conservative activist and homeschool father Jamie Johnson will speak on “One Million Davids: The Coming Generation of Christian Political Leaders.”
Homeschool families are encouraged to visit www.homeschooliowa.org for additional details and to register for the event.
Formed in 1992, NICHE is Iowa’s only statewide homeschooling organization providing support and information to home educating families through a variety of events and resources, including an annual conference, a formal graduation service, a monthly newsletter, legislative services and multi-faceted assistance to local homeschooling groups and individual families.