Have you ever wondered why homeschoolers need a state organization?
Years ago homeschoolers were few and far between, curriculum resources were less abundant, and connecting with other like-minded families was difficult. In those days, state homeschool organizations were the hub of all things homeschooling. Today, homeschoolers are much easier to find, curriculum vendors seem to pop up everywhere, and many networking opportunities exist, making the need for a state organization seem less obvious.
In a state as vast and unique as Alaska, families who choose private and home education face both incredible opportunities and distinct challenges. Alaska Private and Home Educators Association (APHEA) exists to meet those challenges head-on—equipping parents, strengthening community, and preserving the freedom to educate the next generation according to conviction. For over 40 years, APHEA has served as Alaska’s statewide Christian homeschool organization, supporting families as they carry out their God-given responsibility: the training and education of their children.
Homeschooling in Alaska enjoys a strong tradition of freedom—but that freedom is not guaranteed. Laws change. Policies shift. Cultural attitudes evolve.
APHEA plays a critical role in safeguarding educational liberty by staying actively involved in the political process. The organization informs families about legislation, monitors Department of Education activity, and serves as a liaison between homeschoolers and the Alaska legislature.
This advocacy ensures that parents—not the state—remain the primary decision-makers in their children’s education. APHEA stands firmly on the conviction that children are not “creatures of the state,” but individuals entrusted first to their families.
Homeschooling can feel isolating, especially in a state where communities are separated by vast distances. APHEA bridges that gap. Through newsletters, events, and networking opportunities, APHEA connects families across Alaska, fostering relationships that encourage and strengthen homeschoolers at every stage of the journey. Whether a family is just beginning or has been homeschooling for years, APHEA provides a place to belong—a statewide network built on shared values and mutual support.
Homeschooling is more than a choice—it’s a commitment to excellence. APHEA helps families rise to that calling. Each year, APHEA hosts a statewide convention featuring keynote speakers, practical workshops, and a curriculum fair where families can explore educational resources firsthand. These events provide:
- Practical tools for teaching and curriculum planning
- Encouragement from experienced homeschool leaders
- Access to trusted educational materials
- Opportunities for the entire family to grow together
In a state where access to resources can be limited, this annual gathering becomes a cornerstone of homeschool success.
At its core, APHEA is driven by a conviction that education is not merely academic—it is spiritual, moral, and foundational to the future of society.
The organization affirms:
- The God-given responsibility of parents to educate their children
- The importance of religious freedom in education
- The value of cooperation among families to pursue excellence
- The necessity of protecting these freedoms for future generations
Without organizations like APHEA:
- Homeschool freedoms could erode without unified advocacy
- Families would face greater isolation across Alaska’s vast geography
- Access to quality resources and training would be limited
- The collective voice of homeschoolers would be diminished
With APHEA, families are not alone—they are part of a movement committed to educational freedom, strong families, and a flourishing future.
Alaska Private and Home Educators Association is more than an organization—it is a lifeline for homeschooling families across Alaska. By protecting freedom, building community, and equipping parents, APHEA ensures that home education in Alaska not only survives, but thrives. And in a state known for independence, resilience, and strong families, that mission has never been more important.