Host: Katy Meyers (Goffstown Homeschool Community, GHC)
Guest: Dr. Jody Underwood (Education Options NH; School District Governance Association)

The discussion orients parents to the full landscape of K–12 education options in New Hampshire. It also covers how to navigate them.

Key points:

• Education Options NH (edopt.org) maintains a statewide Provider Map. It lists public schools, charter schools, private schools, homeschool groups, co‑ops, micro‑schools, learning centers, and Learn Everywhere opportunities. Providers can upload logos and <1‑min videos. Listings note whether EFAs are accepted. The map is phone‑friendly and filterable.
• The nonprofit runs EdOpt Fairs statewide (14 so far). They invite all different types of providers in the area of the fair. Families can speak directly with providers. They can also compare models.
• Parent consultations surface common gaps: Many don’t know charter schools do not charge tuition to families. Hybrid models are possible. Independent homeschoolers may take public‑school classes at no cost, while EFA participants have to pay. Special‑education needs often change outside public settings. “Unschooling” focuses on goals and child‑led interests rather than recreating school at home.
• Claremont’s fiscal stress has a lot of families in that area exploring options.
• A bill to remove homeschool requirements is expected.
• The School District Governance Association (sdganh.org) reminds school boards their role is oversight, not administration.
• Upcoming: Fairs planned for National School Choice Week (last week of January) in Manchester, Claremont, and Dummer in North Country. Additional spring/summer events (e.g., Nashua).

EdOpt is a 501c3 non-profit. Donations are tax‑deductible (501(c)(3)).
Contact: [email protected].

GHC explained: the local co‑op model, low‑cost social events, and parent‑driven mini‑lessons (civics, science, sewing, cooking, etc.) help families build sustainable learning communities.