Searching for ACTIVE homeschool groups in Helena (secular or non-denominational preferred) (public school, pros and cons)

[KiddieWrangler]

Good morning everyone! After reading the previous posts on the subject of homeschooling in Helena, I see that it is quite a heated debate at times, and wish to apologize in advance for opening old wounds. I find myself in a similar position to that of other posters, and truly need some information from those who are homeschoolers, not those interested in debating the quality of a homeschool education. I can debate the pros and cons with anyone who is interested at a later date. (Be forewarned, I used to be a public school teacher!) But, to the topic at hand... I am considering homeschooling my seven year old son (1st grade) and would like to know if there are any ACTIVE homeschool groups in Helena. I have tried joining online groups and associations that the Montana OPI and other education groups have suggested, but have found they are more interested in making political statements about homeschooling children when the conditions are right, not actually providing activities to promote the socialization of homeschooled Helena-area children. I have tried a couple church-based groups, but find that they are not as "open" to more secular views as they say they are. So, if there is anyone in the Helena area that has been sucessful in finding an ACTIVE group, please let me know. If not, if there are any other families like ours that are interested in forming a more secular, ACTIVE group, let me know as well. Thanks again for your time.

[Sheila U]

I am new to the Hellena area and also need some home school connections. Have you had any luck?

[historyfan]

http://www.mtche.org/groups.pdf

Start here for groups & contacts by town/area. Also your local county superintendent of schools (located in county courthouse) will have lust of homeschool groups.