Trying to find a legitimate Umbrella School

[JaniceO]

Ugh. Here's my story: We are a military family stationed overseas right now. Next year, I will be homeschooling my boys for the first time. There are no rules or regulations governing our homeschooling. HOWEVER, my DH would like us to have some accountability. I am fine with this. I have researched and learned about Umbrella Schools. This sounds like what we are looking for.

I have found two that look exactly like what I'm looking for: Champion Prepatory Academy and Allendale Academy. One says they're accredited the other isn't. They are both within our cost range and provide the services we are looking for. Also, I don't want to have to sign a statement of faith as I am homeschooling secularly.

Now the problem. I've been reading a lot lately on how so many of these programs are scams. How do I know if these 2 are legitimate or not? I can't find anybody who has used either program. I emailed Champion for some information (because they would be my first choice), but I haven't heard back from them.

If anybody could help me out, I'd greatly appreciate. Is anyone using a program that doesn't require a statement of faith that they could recommend?

[TraceyS/FL]

Champion is here in Altamonte - they are legit. They will be at FPEA this week, and have a big ad in the "booklet" for the Convention.

I've spoken with them thru email before moving here - trying to figure out a direction for ourselves. We ended up being too far from them to use what they offered, so we are using another Umbrella School here in FL (not the type you are looking for).

I would be happy to pass them a message Thursday evening for you if you havne't heard from them by then. I'm not sure what the set up time for the convention is either - the people you need to talk to might be "busy" this week because of it?!

[JaniceO]

Thank you so much! I was researching them today and they are registered with the right people and I know exactly where they are located (I grew up in Winter Park), so I was leaning towards them being legit, but all the websites I've been reading have made me nervous.

I bet they are busy getting ready and that's why I haven't heard back from them! I feel much better about my decision now!! Thanks again!