1. What does a homeschool evaluation include?
I review your child’s progress using work samples and conduct a brief individualized interview to discuss their learning. I assess whether the student is achieving educational progress commensurate with their ability, as required by Virginia law (§22.1-254.1).
2. What does the evaluation cost?
The fee is $50 per student. This covers my time reviewing materials, conducting the interview, preparing the official proof-of-progress letter, and following up with your school district if they have any questions or require clarification about the evaluation.
3. Do you meet the qualifications required by Virginia law?
Yes. I hold a Master of Science in Special Education (K–12) and meet the qualifications to evaluate homeschooled students in Virginia.
4. What kind of work samples should I submit?
Please provide samples from core subjects such as:
- Math
- Reading
- Writing
- Science
- Social Studies
Acceptable samples include worksheets, writing assignments, art, photos of trips, photos of projects, journal entries, or other activities that demonstrate your child’s learning throughout the year.
5. How do I submit work samples?
You can submit work samples digitally by email (PDF or clear photos). If we are not meeting virtually, you are also welcome to bring them in person to your scheduled interview.
6. How long does the evaluation take?
Most interviews take 10–20 minutes per student. I ask a few friendly questions about what your child has learned, enjoyed, or found challenging.
7. How soon will I receive my evaluation letter?
You will receive a PDF draft of the evaluation letter within 1–4 business days after your interview. A signed final PDF will be sent once payment is received—usually within an hour.
8. What do I do with the evaluation letter?
You must submit the letter to your local school division by August 1st, as required by Virginia law. It is recommended that you send it via mail rather than email or digital portals, to ensure there is a physical record of submission and delivery.
9. What if my child has special learning needs?
I have extensive experience working with students who learn differently, and I truly love working with them. As a licensed Special Education teacher, I understand that every child’s learning journey is unique. My evaluations are gentle, personalized, and designed to reflect each student’s individual strengths, progress, and abilities in a supportive, nonjudgmental way.
Payments can be made via:
- Venmo: If you select “Goods & Services,” send $51.54 to cover the processing fee. If sent as a gift (Friends & Family), the total is $50.00 flat.
- PayPal: If you select “Goods & Services,” send $51.84 to cover the processing fee. If sent as a gift (Friends & Family), the total is $50.00 flat.
- Zelle: Send $50.00 to JennRodgersCallahan@gmail.com.
- Cash: Accepted for in-person evaluations only.
Please see the above section with Payment links.
11. How does the interview take place?
If your student lives locally, I prefer to meet in person whenever possible, as it allows for a more personal and engaging experience. If you're located further away, we can easily meet virtually using Google Meet—whichever option works best for your family!
12. What areas do you serve?
I serve all school districts within the Commonwealth of Virginia. Evaluations for other states may be considered upon request, depending on your local homeschool laws and requirements.
13. What if we don’t use a curriculum?
That’s absolutely okay! I value all types of learning and welcome unschoolers, eclectic homeschoolers, and families who use alternative or interest-led approaches. My evaluations focus on your child’s growth and progress, not on whether they follow a traditional curriculum.
14. What if my child is working below grade level?
That’s completely okay. I don’t focus on grade levels—I care about growth, learning, and progress. Every child develops at their own pace, and my evaluations reflect that. If you have concerns about how your child is learning, I’m always happy to talk with you and offer support or guidance as needed.
