Library is valuable resource for homeschooled students
Students made slime during the Homeschoolers Club at the Strasburg branch of the Tuscarawas County Public Library System.
Homeschooling students and their teachers in Tuscarawas County are able to access a wealth of information, services and ideas through the county library.
“We can’t get cable at our house, and the options for internet services are poor,” Bolivar resident John Ruth said. “We homeschool all of our children, and the library provides us with all of our extra resources.”
Along with traditional resources, the Tuscarawas County Public Library System provides educational opportunities and experiences for students receiving an education outside of the traditional classroom.
The Strasburg, Sugarcreek and Tuscarawas branches of the county library system all host homeschooler clubs monthly at each of their locations.
Students grade k-6 are welcome to join the Strasburg branch on select Fridays at 10 a.m., the Sugarcreek branch on select Tuesdays at 11 a.m. and the Tuscarawas branch on select Wednesdays at 1 p.m.
“The clubs were established to provide students an opportunity for socialization and community engagement,” Tuscarawas branch supervisor Tabitha Johnson said.
Johnson said an added benefit of the homeschool group is it provides parents an opportunity to network with one another, swap ideas and gain inspiration that can further enhance their teaching skills and their child’s learning experience.
Club activities vary from field trips, reading, writing, and even arts and crafts. Students who participate are able to learn how to use the library, access databases and make new friends.
“We use the entire collection for the girls’ school work and from DVDs to the computers for research,” homeschool parent Luella Montanez said. “The multi-generational clubs and programs are beneficial to our curriculum and a great social experience.”
There is no cost to attend the homeschooler clubs. To register or for more information, visit the online event calendar at www.tusclibrary.org or call the nearest TCPL location.