Does your mom have court-mandated child support, or is your dad just do it "on his own," as it were? If it is court-mandated, she can protest his actions through a judge, because you are right - a homeschool is a private school in Texas. If there isn't a court order, though, she would probably have to get one in order to "make" him pay. I'm sorry he is being so awful about it. :cry: For what it is worth, here is an HSLDA article about a family in Ohio that went through the same thing in 1995: http://www.hslda.org/courtreport/V12N1/V12N112.asp ~ Marylyn
You might want to ask your mom to contact HSLDA (www.hslda.org). They have lawyers on staff to help with things like this. If she isn't a member of HSLDA, they also have a Homeschool Foundation (http://www.homeschoolfoundation.org/) to help people who couldn't otherwise afford to, to join. It is well worth a try and they have helped other people in the same situation as you. I'll be praying for both of you!! ~ Marylyn
Hslda may take the case anyway... simply because it serves their purpose of protecting homeschoolers rights. And gives them another story for their press releases. However, be prepared to show that you are homeschooling, like schoolwork, papers written and so on. Although there are no paperwork requirements to homeschool in Texas, you will need to show "Something" in a court. So, call them (HSLDA) anyway, it's worth a shot.
Part of it is that you're 18. While I agree that you should get in touch with HSLDA, I would also suggest you get a job, too. I think you and your mom should be prepared to make it without his support. (PLEASE!!! NO TOMATOES!!!) How close are you towarad graduation? Are we talking another few months or another year?
Jackie, I agree she should get a job if she about ready to graduation. But, if she has another year because of other things then she should be school. Contact HSLDA anyway. They will lead you in the right direction.
I hate when parents put a price on their child's head. It's just insane! I'm praying someone smacks your father upside the head and makes him pay the support that is needed. I do agree, though, that getting a job would be good - no only from a support issue but from a "life" issue. I was not homeschooled, but it was clear that Public School was not for me. I took a "career" track in high school, not a college track (back then they had secretarial and business math type stuff you could take). Well, my Sr. year, I took the required classes and then was part of the Work Study program. The work Study program allowed me to attend school for 4 hours, then I left at lunch time and worked 5 hours a day. I also took a "life preparation" class where they taught you how to maintain a home, checkbook, do your taxes, etc. It was great. My classes were English, Accounting II (which was a selfpaced class and I finished halfway thru the College Accounting 1 class), Gym and Work Study Class. I also earned credits for the working hours I did and my bosses filled out a "report card" for me every semester. I ended up working for that company from 15 to 18. They were very good to me and gave me a great life education. My mom was no longer paying child support (I lived with my dad) but my dad still had to pay child support for my sister - even though she dropped out of school and lived with my mom. It was insanity. Me having a job allowed me to pay for the "extras" in my life so my folks only had to provide the need tos. But anyway....just my .02 I'm sorry for how your dad is acting. It's truly horrible. Please know you are worth far more than child support dollar amount.
JenniferDawn, If you are in TX call THSC. They are WONDERFUL!!!! They will be able to give you the best advice as to what to do. All we can do is wish you the best and give you opinions. Call them!!!! THSC (806) 744-4441 email: staff@thsc.org Good Luck!
I agree with everyone to call and get legal advice. Here is the thing - here in Texas a standard order will usually say something like the father must pay child support until the child turns 18 OR graduates high school whichever happens last. I used to work in the legal field and I have an ex paying child support and that is the way my order is worded. Don't know about yours. If your mother didn't show proof that you are being school whether private or public or whatever that can cause problems and your father may actually be able to get away with not paying anymore.Its a tough situation. I suggest like the others did that you seek legal advice ASAP. I wish you the best of luck with this situation.
HSLDA gives free membership to single moms who qualify. And yes, they also take cases of non-members if they see that it will benefit the homeschooling community as a whole. Here's the link to HSLDA's Homeschool Foundation, which gives financial support. http://www.homeschoolfoundation.org I do think that by your dad should still have to pay child support until you graduate, but I also think you are old enough to take on some financial responsibility. Even if you did fight him, you may be looking at months in the court system. You seem to care a lot about your mom. That's great to hear. Good luck!
WOW! Your father (like mine) is missing out on knowing a great kid! My father never paid child-support. And sadly, he never spoke to me after I was 18 MONTHS old. There are just some people in the world who do not get it. We can pray for them, hope things change. But I had to learn to not pin my plans on that hope. If you are half as wise as you write, Hon, you are on your way! And I hope your father runs to you with "Please forgive me" on his lips. But in the real world, he just thinks he's punishing your mother. And his pride may prevent him from properly expressing his love. Some men are just that way. Continue being as wonderful as you are! I can feel an "I'm so sorry" headed for your ears some time in the future. But it may be a while. So get busy with "YOU" for now..... (I'll be in your "Cheering Section"!)
You do seem to be a very wise young lady. The moms here would LOVE to support you and cheer you on! Prayers for you and your mom and that your dad will own up to his responsibilities!
JenniferDawn - I'm echoing the words posted here. You sound like such a terrific person. I'm wishing you were closer so I could meet you! God's eye is on the sparrow - and it is clear that it is on YOU for sure. I got chills reading your posts and how much of the blessings you experience in your life because of giving away yourself and your time. THAT is totally the right heart and attitude. You're in my prayers as you go thru this process! And, as others have said, we are here for you!!!
Jennifer, Another resource available to you is the Office of the Attorney General in TX. They enforce child support and interpret the court orders. In your case my opinion (and I'm not a legal specialist but I am a custodial father) he should still be legally obligated to pay support. I have to warn you that they do not move very quickly but if you stay on them they tend to move a little faster. I've dealt with them because my sons mom has been a bit of a deadbeat and, after they reviewed her salary, her support doubled and comes right out of her paycheck. It's worth a shot I'd say. Best of luck to you young lady. I'm seriously considering homeschooling my son through high school and I hope he turns out as well as you have.
