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YKCS@Home FAQs
YKCS@Home Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What is YKCS@Home?
YKCS@Home is the distance learning program of Yellowhead Koinonia Christian School, offering families a flexible, Christ-centered education through Traditional Home Schooling, Online, Print-Based, and Shared Responsibility options.
What are Homeschooling, Home Education, Shared Responsibility, and Distance Education?
Homeschooling refers to any form of education conducted at home. However, different methods of delivery exist:
- Home Education: Parents take full responsibility for their child's education, including curriculum planning, instruction, and assessment. YKCS@Home provides support, oversight, and community for families who choose this option.
- Distance Education: Teachers are fully responsible for lesson planning, instruction, and assessment. This includes synchronous (live) and asynchronous (self-paced) online learning.
- Shared Responsibility: A hybrid approach where parents and the school divide educational responsibilities. Parents teach some subjects (Home Education), while YKCS@Home provides teacher-directed instruction for other subjects (Online or Print-Based). Funding is allocated based on the percentage of teacher-directed courses.
Enrollment & Registration
What grade levels does YKCS@Home cover?
- YKCS@Home serves students from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
Can our family join YKCS@Home mid-year?
- Typically, enrollment is completed before the start of the school year. However, in special circumstances, mid-year enrollment may be considered.
Is there a registration fee for YKCS@Home?
- There is no registration fee for Alberta residents enrolling in YKCS@Home. Some additional costs may apply depending on the selected program type (optional field trips or sports teams).
Do I need to be a Christian to enroll in YKCS@Home?
- YKCS@Home is a Christian program that integrates Biblical teachings throughout the curriculum. While we welcome families from all backgrounds, parents must agree to our Statement of Faith policies to enroll.
Can families outside Alberta enroll in YKCS@Home?
- YKCS@Home is available to Alberta residents. Families must reside in Alberta to access government funding and enroll in an Alberta-accredited education program. If you are an Alberta resident travelling for the year you are welcome to apply.
Program-Specific Questions
Do students in YKCS@Home follow the Alberta Education curriculum?
- Yes. For teacher-directed courses (Online or Print-Based), students follow the Alberta Program of Studies. Parent-directed (Home Education) courses do not have to follow these outcomes but must align with Alberta Education regulations.
Are report cards issued in YKCS@Home?
- Yes, report cards are provided for teacher-directed courses (Online or Print-Based). Parent-directed Home Education courses do not receive report cards.
Do students in the Shared Responsibility program get assigned a support teacher?
- Yes. A home education facilitator is assigned to each student to support the parent-directed portion of their education. Facilitators provide guidance, assessment visits, and ongoing support.
How does funding work for Shared Responsibility students?
- Funding is allocated based on the percentage of teacher-directed courses a student is enrolled in. For example, a 50/50 split in Home Education and teacher-directed courses would allocate 50% of the available funding to the family.
Learning Environment & Resources
Can I choose my own curriculum?
- For Home Education subjects, parents have full control over curriculum choices. For teacher-directed courses (Online or Print-Based), YKCS@Home provides all required curricular resources.
What technical requirements are needed for Online Learning?
- Students need a computer with internet access, a webcam, a microphone, and software compatible with our
- Learning Management System. Specific technical requirements may vary by grade level.
Extracurricular Activities & Community Engagement
Do you offer field trips or activity days?
- Yes! YKCS@Home students can participate in field trips, community events, and extracurricular activities. Some activities may have additional fees.
Are there in-person learning opportunities?
- Yes. While YKCS@Home is a distance learning program, we offer opportunities for in-person, community gatherings, and special events throughout the school year. Students are also welcome to participate in YKCS in-person activities such as field days, field trips, chapels, etc.
Support & Assistance
What is a Home Education Facilitator?
- A Home Education Facilitator is a certified Alberta teacher who supports families in Home Education. Facilitators provide planning assistance, two home visits per year, and ongoing guidance via email, phone, or video calls.
Can I get assistance with choosing resources?
- Yes. Your facilitator can provide guidance on selecting resources for the parent-directed portion of your student's education.
Do I get support creating my Home Education plan?
- Yes. Facilitators are available to provide support and guidance upon request.
For more information, please contact us!