The SDSL conducted an online survey from July 30th – August 15th to gather data on home school trends for Fall 2020. Forty-one responses were received and analyzed. Please note: Home schooling has its own curriculum while distance learning is done working from home with your local school district and teachers. SD/DOE has a page about home schooling: https://doe.sd.gov/oatq/homeschooling.aspx.
Most (45%) reported less than 25% of their student population would be home schooling this fall. However, 37.5% indicate they have no idea how to tell how many in their community plan to home school this fall, and 12.5% would like guidance on how to find out. Library staff can look for where parents are having these conversations. Facebook groups for parents and other online social media can help library staff connect to this user base. Where do parents gather in your community?
See full infographic of SDSL Homeschool Online Survey.
Twenty nine respondents answered they did see evidence home schooling will increase, while sixteen respondents answered they did not. How are you reaching out to your community to gather information? Contacting school administrators is a great way to collaborate, get facts, and advocate for your library.
30% of respondents said they did not feel prepared to handle a potential increase in patrons who homeschool. A whopping 80% of respondents opted to receive additional resources that benefit the home school community.
What can libraries do?
Libraries can provide access to Wi-Fi and SDSL online databases to support research, homework, and projects. Whether the student is being home schooled, learning online, or in person through the school district, libraries have a lot to offer.
SDSL databases
The SDSL provides a large selection of online databases on a variety of topics. Users have instant, statewide access using GeoIP technology. Check out the following:
- Student Research for Elementary School
- Student Research for Middle School
- Student Research for High School
As always, feel free to contact me for more information and/or to set up training on the SDSL databases:
Kim Bonen, Digital Resources Coordinator
605-295-3174 | Kim.bonen@state.sd.us
If you lose my phone number, just call the State Library 773-3131 ext. 6 and they can patch you through.