Homeschool
These field-based programs are designed to help students ages 5-12 gain a deeper understanding of the natural world through fun and hands-on experiences.
*NEW* Ijams Homeschool Days
During Ijams Homeschool Days, Ijams staff inspire students to explore classroom concepts in a natural context through inquiry and experiential learning. All sessions are held fully outside, with exceptions for visiting animal exhibits, inclement weather, or at the discretion of Ijams educators. Programming is designed to deepen students’ connections to place, with each other, and with the natural world, all while fostering their curiosity.
General Information
​AGE ELIGIBILITY
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Homeschool Days are designed for homeschool students ages 5-12. All ages will stay together until programming begins, at which time they will split into groups based on age. Each group will have 15 students or less. Parents or guardians are required to remain with their homeschooler for the duration of the program as a chaperone.
DATES & TIMES
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This year, Homeschoolers will have the opportunity to attend an Ijams Field Trip and be apart of a group with other Homeschoolers. The program meets at the pavilion next to the Ijams Visitor Center, 2915 Island Home Ave., Knoxville, TN 37920.
​Fall 2024 Dates and Rates:
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Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm
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Dates: October 21 and November 18 (you can register for one day or both days, but the content will be similar)
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Cost: $14/student/date
Homeschool Day Structure:
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Both Homeschool Field Trip Days will generally follow the same program schedule:
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9 am - Arrival
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9-9:15 am - Welcome, get a parking pass, restroom, and snack (BYO snack). During this time, we also check in with parents and guardians about group needs and chaperone expectations. We highly recommend having a snack at the start of the day because the program ends at noon.
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9:15-11:30 am - Programming
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11:30 am-12 pm - Live animal presentation (two animals will be presented)
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12 pm - Optional picnic lunch, free play with other students, chat with other homeschool parents
* Time limitations, group size, and/or weather conditions may require altering this schedule.
* Programs will start on time, and we will be hiking the Ijams trails. If you are late you risk missing the programming.
HOMESCHOOL POLICIES​
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Please CAREFULLY read the policies during the registration process. Signing up for Ijams Homeschool Day(s) indicates your intent to comply with these policies and procedures.
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Students must be in the age range of their registered group by the date of the first session.
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During all sessions, parents or guardians MUST remain as a chaperone with their homeschooler the entire time of programming. However, trail space is limited. Please limit attending parents to one parent/guardian per student(s).
Please contact Kylie Preston with any questions about Homeschool Days at kpreston@ijams.org
