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It was great! I liked the differentiation between being able to communicate with the speaker and host. Speaker answered all of my questions—really appreciated it.—Esther, NY
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Our Speakers
HSLDA’s @home e•vents program showcases speakers who are experts in their fields and often leaders in the homeschool community. They’ve been in your shoes and want to come alongside you in your journey to enhance your family’s homeschooling experience! Our speakers possess the breadth of experience, talent, and enthusiasm suited for encouraging you and equipping you with relevant tools.
Past e•vents have included presentations by well-known authors and speakers, such as Andrew Pudewa, Lou Priolo, Dr. Jay Wile, Jeff Myers, and Hal and Melanie Young, as well as experienced homeschooling parents and homeschool graduates. HSLDA staff speakers have included President J. Michael Smith, Chairman Michael P. Farris, many other attorneys, and some of our Special Needs, High School, and Early Years coordinators, such as Dianne Craft, Vicki Bentley, Becky Cooke, and Diane Kummer.
Michael P. Donnelly, Esq., HSLDA Attorney
Mike serves as staff attorney for member affairs in the states of Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Ohio, Utah, Vermont, Wyoming, the District of Columbia, and manages HSLDA’s involvement on behalf of persecuted homeschoolers in the Federal Republic of Germany. He also teaches constitutional law at Patrick Henry College where he is an adjunct professor of government.
Mike received his Juris Doctorate from the Boston University School of Law with honors, graduating as a Paul J. Liacos Scholar. He is a member of the New Hampshire and Massachusetts state bars.
Before his legal career, Mike served in the United States Army, including combat service as a cavalry officer in the first Persian Gulf War. His previous experience includes founding a top 30 Internet marketing and advertising firm as well as private business consulting and legal practice.
Mike has served on a variety of non-profit boards and is a frequent speaker and writer on the subject of homeschooling. He appears on radio and TV programs to talk about homeschooling and the persecution of German homeschoolers. Mike and Patty homeschool their six children and reside in West Virginia.
“Thank you. That was exactly what I needed. Nice presentation, Mr. Donnelly.” —Vanessa, CO
E•vents
9/11/2009 (4:15 PM EST): State Counsel: How to Homeschool in Massachusetts
Are you a home educator in Massachusetts? Then you’ll want to join HSLDA attorney Mike Donnellyin his helpful webinar, “How to Homeschool in Massachusetts”!
Donnelly will address questions such as: How do we get “approval” for our homeschool? What paperwork must I provide to the superintendent? How do I deal with social workers? What if officials ask for more information than they are entitled to? Don’t miss this members-only e-vent! Pull up a chair to your computer—and bring your specific Massachusetts homeschool questions for Donnelly’s Q&A session.
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
2/18/2010 (9:30 PM EST): State Counsel: How to Homeschool in Ohio
Homeschooling in the Buckeye State!
Join HSLDA Attorney for Member Affairs for the Buckeye State as he presents the information you need to comply with the law and to be prepared to defend your family in the event of unwelcome interactions with public authorities. Mike will review Ohio’s home school regulations and review private education under Ohio’s -08 regulation. Wayne Clark, CHEO’s Acting Chairman and Melanie Elsey, CHEO’s legislative Liaison will join Mike in a discussion about laws, legislation and issues Ohio Homeschoolers should know about. Don’t miss this free members-only event – you will have the opportunity to interact with Mike, Wayne or Melanie live and to ask questions and get answers. Sign up today – Space is limited!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
3/10/2010 (3:28 PM EST): Fully Engaged: Being a Dad Who’s There
Today’s father has limited hours to look after numerous concerns—including his family, work, and ministry. To manage an increasingly busy schedule, you’ve got to answer several big questions, such as the following:
How can we fathers most effectively invest our time? And where can we invest it for eternal value? How can we properly lead our families and serve God amidst sports, music, drama, church, school, support groups, homeschool co-ops, extended family responsibilities, and ministry programs? Do you know when to say yes—and when to say no? Must we choose between competing priorities to be effective stewards?
Join HSLDA attorney Mike Donnelly for his thoughts on time management and prioritization from his experiences as a father of six, army officer, entrepreneur, and company executive. You’ll be encouraged and inspired to continue on your unique journey as a father.
Member Price: $5.95
Non-Member Price: $10.95
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4/8/2010 (4PM EST): State Counsel: How to Homeschool in West Virginia
Attention, all HSLDA members in West Virginia—we have a members-only e-vent just for you! Join HSLDA attorney Mike Donnelly for an informative webinar focusing on homeschooling in your state. During the e-vent, Mike will share helpful information that you need to know in order to set up your home education program and will answer your specific questions. Don’t miss this chance to gain legal insights and ask your questions regarding homeschooling in the Mountain State!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
4/27/2010 (8:58 AM EST): State Counsel: How to Homeschool in Utah
If you are an HSLDA member in the state of Utah—we have a members-only e-vent just for you! Join HSLDA attorney Mike Donnelly for an informative webinar all about homeschooling in your state. In this e-vent, Mike will share helpful information to help you set up your home education program and answer any specific questions you may have. Don’t miss this chance to get legal insight and information—bring your questions regarding homeschooling in Utah!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
5/21/2009 (12AM EST): State Counsel: Minnesota
Are you wondering what you need to do to comply with Minnesota homeschool law? Are you interested in the latest legislative battles that took place at the capitol? Are you concerned about standardized testing?
Join HSLDA Attorney Michael P. Donnelly and MACHE Board Member John Tuma for an informative @home e-vent. Log on from the comfort of your own home and listen to Mike and John explain the current state of homeschooling in Minnesota. They will also discuss the recent legislative session and take some time to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Bring your specific questions for the Q&A session!
This is a free e-vent open to HSLDA members only.
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
5/27/2009 (12AM EST): State Counsel: New Hampshire Law Change
Did you know that New Hampshire’s compulsory attendance law change has gone into effect? What does this mean for you and your family as homeschoolers? Do you have questions? Will you have to keep reporting to your participating agency? Are you wondering what options are available to you and your 16-year-old who would have been “free” from compulsory attendance requirements prior to this change? How is the New Hampshire legislature using House Bill 368 to study state homeschool law? Come listen to HSLDA Attorney Mike Donnelly and Christian Home Educators of New Hampshire President Jim Parison talk about homeschooling in the Granite State during these uncertain times. A Q&A session will follow. This is a member only e-vent.
If you aren’t a member of HSLDA, join today so you can participate in this valuable FREE e-vent sponsored by HSLDA’s @home e-vents!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
8/12/2009 (4PM EST): State Counsel: Colorado – What’s Required for Homeschools and Independent Schools?
If you live in Colorado and homeschool or are involved in an independent school, you won’t want to miss this informative e-vent! Join HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly to untangle the ins and outs of educating your children at home in the Centennial State. Prepare to engage in the discussion, as Mike will leave time to take your specific questions during a Q&A session. This is a members-only e-vent.
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
6/1/2010 (5:45 PM EST): State Counsel: How to Homeschool in Nebraska
If you’re a homeschooling family in Nebraska, you won’t want to miss this free, informative e-vent just for you! HSLDA attorney Mike Donnelly will help untangle the ins and outs of educating your children at home in Nebraska. Prepare to participate, as Mike will take your specific questions about homeschooling in the Cornhusker State during the Q&A portion of this e-vent!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
6/9/2010 (10:15 PM EST): Forging Ahead—Apprenticeships in the 21st Century
Is your high schooler thinking about college? While homeschoolers may be better prepared for it than many other college-bound teens, that doesn’t mean they should automatically get sucked into the “college conveyor belt.” If college is not in the plan, what do we do with our right, well-educated, well-socialized homeschooled students? And where do we find resources and apprenticeships to help guide homeschoolers through this process of vocational preparation and calling? Find out the answers to these questions during this e-vent with HSLDA attorney and homeschooling father Michael Donnelly! Join us to learn practical tips and hear insightful apprenticeship advice to aid you and your student in planning his unique future.
Member Price: $5.95
Non-Member Price: $10.95
9/9/2010 (2PM EST): How to Homeschool in Vermont
Attention, all HSLDA members in Vermont—we have a members-only e-vent just for you! Join HSLDA attorney Mike Donnelly for an informative webinar focusing on homeschooling in your state. During the e-vent, Mike will share helpful information that you need to know in order to set up your home education program and will answer your specific questions. Don’t miss this chance to gain legal insights and ask your questions regarding homeschooling in the Green Mountain State!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
10/28/2010 (2PM EST): How to Homeschool in Wyoming
Whether you’re new to home education or a seasoned veteran, this free members-only @home e-vent will address all your questions about homeschooling in the Cowboy State! HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly will help untangle the ins and outs of educating your children at home in Wyoming. With careful explanation of state requirements and regulations, as well as answers to your specific questions, this is a member benefit that will provide clarity and peace of mind for homeschooling parents. Register today!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
11/12/2010 (2PM EST): Homeschooling: An International Perspective
American homeschoolers enjoy a freedom that many around the world only dream about. If you’d like to know what homeschoolers in other parts of the world are facing, or if you’ve ever wondered whether your support could impact international homeschoolers, keep reading! HSLDA is excited to present its first-ever international e-vent as a resource for you.
Although this e-vent is free of charge, a suggested donation of $25 to the Home School Foundation’s International Fund is greatly encouraged! Be a blessing to persecuted homeschoolers in other countries by visiting the Home School Foundation website and helping to spread homeschool freedom around the world.
Join Mike Donnelly, HSLDA’s Director of International Relations, as he chats with an impressive array of international homeschool leaders. His panel will include Dave Tucker from El Hogar Educador in Mexico; Gabriel Curcubet, president of the Romanian Home Schooling Association; Leendert van Oostrum, president of the Pestalozzi Trust Legal Defence Fund in South Africa; and Uwe Romeike, a German homeschool father whose family is fighting for political asylum in the United States.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from homeschool leaders across the globe!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
12/9/2010 (8:30 PM EST): Exclusive Legislative Preview for New Hampshire!
In the wake of the November 2010 elections, the landscape of New Hampshire’s state legislature is looking significantly brighter for homeschoolers. Republican legislators, who were the minority, now outnumber Democrats by a margin of almost three to one in the House and nearly four to one in the Senate. Specifically noteworthy for homeschoolers were the elections of homeschool father and former Christian Home Educators of New Hampshire President Jim Parison and strong homeschool advocate Jim Forsythe.
This exciting swing of control has many in the “Live free or die” state wondering what will happen in the 2011–12 legislative session. HSLDA is keenly aware of the favorable numbers and has undertaken discussion with key legislators about what should be done. Join HSLDA Staff Attorney Michael Donnelly and several invited guests for this exclusive legislative panel discussion!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
4/7/2011 (2PM EST): The Compelling Case for Home Education
If you or a friend are interested in giving homeschooling a try, or if you’re tired of hearing from family members that you’re crazy for giving it a shot, check out this e-vent with HSLDA Attorney Mike Donnelly. You, your friends, and your loved ones can finally get some answers to see why homeschooling may be the best option for you and your children. Mike Donnelly shares from his years of homeschooling experience to show you why homeschooled students excel in academics and debunks the myths you’ve heard about homeschooling families. As a special gift to you, HSLDA is presenting this e-vent completely free!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
4/13/2011 (2PM EST): When They Come Knocking: How to Handle Social Worker Contacts
A visit from a truant officer or social worker ranks fairly high on the list of things homeschool families hope will never happen to them. But there is no need to fear if you understand your rights, the law, and how to interact with these government workers. They have a job to do—and so do you! Join HSLDA attorney and homeschooling father Mike Donnelly as he addresses the most frequent issues homeschoolers face when dealing with school superintendents, principals, and social workers. Don’t miss this practical discussion of how to appropriately handle encounters with civic authorities—no matter what the situation!
Please note, while this e-vent is provided free of charge as a benefit to HSLDA members, we are also excited to make this crucial information available to nonmembers for $10.95.
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: $10.95
6/9/2011 (2PM EST): Is Today's Military Right for My Child?
Americans deeply respect and appreciate the sacrifice made by the families and individuals who serve in the armed forces, especially during a time of conflict. Yet as society changes so does our military. Do you have a son or daughter who feels called to serve? If so, are you providing the right guidance in helping them determine if such a path is their true calling? In this @home e-vent, HSLDA Staff Attorney Michael Donnelly, a veteran of combat in the United States Cavalry, will help you answer the question “Is Today’s Military Right for My Child?” In addition to sharing practical considerations, Mike will give you some of the latest information about what is happening in today’s military, so that you and your student can make an informed decision about this sometimes perilous but praiseworthy vocation.
Member Price: $5.95
Non-Member Price: $10.95
8/3/2011 (1:50 PM EST): New Freedom in Minnesota: Homeschooling Under the New Law
After three years and countless hours of hard work, homeschoolers in Minnesota have scored a victory! With newly signed legislation, it is now easier to homeschool in the North Star State. Find out what that means for you in this free, open-to-the-public e-vent featuring HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly and MACHE Board Member and legislative liaison John Tuma. Mike and John will show you how the Minnesota Association of Christian Home Educators (MACHE) and HSLDA worked on your behalf and they will explain the ins and outs of the new law. Sign up now to get the first look at your new freedoms!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
9/8/2011 (2:06 PM EST): A Call to Action: Is More Oversight Coming to Mountaineer Homeschooling?
Research and experience have proven that homeschooling is successful. But new public education officials in West Virginia are suggesting that homeschoolers need more oversight. Despite the best efforts of West Virginia homeschoolers and HSLDA to reason with these officials, a battle over freedom may be looming in this already highly regulated state. Join HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly as he discusses new enforcement issues, the impact of the new state superintendent's policies, and the likelihood of legislative battles. Donnelly is joined by John Carey of the Christian Home Educators of West Virginia (CHEWV). Sign up today and learn how to keep "Mountaineers Always Free."
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
10/26/2011 (12:55 PM EST): Let's Talk: Headlines & Homeschooling
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is being brought before the United States Senate for ratification. More social workers and police officers are forcibly entering homes without a warrant. Attempts to increase state and federal regulation of homeschooling are multiplying. And HSLDA is working harder than ever to protect your rights. In this exclusive @home e-vent, HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly leads an open discussion on current events that can potentially affect homeschoolers everywhere. And for the first time ever, participants from the live e-vent call in with their comments. Mike gives an overview of current events, and then provides an opportunity for the callers to comment and ask questions! Sign up now to see this exciting new @home e-vent and hear the encouraging words of homeschoolers like you!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
2/9/2012 (2:11 PM EST): Don't Take My Kids!
Imagine social workers and the police taking your child because you homeschool - a remote possibility? Few homeschoolers in the United States will ever face such an extreme circumstance, even though it has been known to happen. But in countries like Germany and Sweden, where parents are persecuted for homeschooling, the possibility of children being taken away is very real. Why should this matter to us in the U.S.? HSLDA Staff Attorney and Director of International Relations Mike Donnelly will interview international homeschooling parents in exile and other guests to discuss why what happens over there matters over here. You'll be able to call in to join the discussion, ask Mike questions, or share any personal experience you've had. This e-vent is absolutely free, so don't hesitate to find out how you can help homeschoolers who struggle for freedom and recognition.
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
3/30/2012 (1:59 PM EST): Homeschooling Attacks in Sweden, Alberta, and . . . Dayton?
Is there a noose tightening around global homeschool freedom? Swedish officials say religious and philosophical convictions are't good-enough reasons to homeschool. Thousands of miles away, parents in Alberta, Canada, are facing a bill that would strip them of their rights and would instead force them to teach a series of values and beliefs dictated by the government. Is America headed this way? An article in the Dayton Daily News of Dayton, Ohio, says that "Home School Oversight Is Lacking" and that homeschool families should be closely monitored. Join HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly in a discussion about these current events and find ways to support your fellow homeschoolers both here and across the world.
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
5/10/2012 (2:09 PM EST): Feds Go After Farm Families: Fallout for Homeschoolers?
The Department of Labor's quick pullback of ridiculous and invasive regulations of family farms shows the extent to which the federal government is seeking to control families. Although homeschoolers have been successful in staving off federal involvement for years, there is no doubt that, given a chance, regulators would seek to invade even this area of family life. What's the connection between family farms and homeschooling? In Ohio, an influential newspaper called for more restrictions on homeschooling families, using comments by Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine to advance the narrative that homeschoolers are "off the grid." Find out what it means for you in this @home e-vent as HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly and a special guest discuss the issues at stake!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
Categories
6/5/2012 (2:11 PM EST): Homeschooling: Not a School at Home!
Grades, grade levels, graduation--they all play a part in your child's education. But do we have to think of these concepts in traditional terms, or can we as homeschoolers view them more flexibly? Can grades be a constructive part of your school's evaluation system? HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly explores out-of-the-box methods home educating parents can use to approach academic, spiritual, and emotional progress for your classroom of one . . . or twelve!
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
8/8/2012 (1:57 PM EST): Living Free: Understanding New Hampshire's New Homeschool Law
Exciting legislative changes are going into effect just in time for the new school year! After the passage of House Bills 545 and 1571, home educators in New Hampshire have gained more freedom for their homeschools. HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly will walk you through each bill and what it means for you. Mike will also give advice on how you can respond to officials who are unfamiliar with the new law, and how HSLDA will help if you continue to meet with confusion.
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
8/22/2012 (9:25 PM EST): Race in the Rockies: Help a Homeschool-Friendly Legislator Get Elected
Kevin Lundberg is an experienced homeschooling parent who started the Christian Home Educators of Colorado, was elected to the Colorado House of Representatives and State Senate, and is now seeking a seat in Colorado's second congressional district.
In a tightly contested race with far-left multimillionaire incumbent Jared Polis, Kevin needs the homeschool community's support now more than ever. In this e-vent, HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly will interview Senator Lundberg on his policies and values and what you can do to help his campaign.
The choice cannot be clearer, nor the opportunity greater to make a significant change in the representation of a congressional seat.
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Member Only Event
3/13/2013 (1:57 PM EST): Homeschooling Is for Everyone!
Homeschooling is one of the fastest-growing forms of education, and the research is also finding that the fastest-growing demographic within homeschooling is minority groups. Join HSLDA Staff Attorney Mike Donnelly as he interviews two leaders in the homeschool community: Joyce Burges, cofounder of National Black Home Educators (NBHE), and Monica Olivera Hazelton, author of the popular blog for Hispanic homeschoolers, Mommy Maestra. Mike, Joyce, and Monica will talk about why minority groups are choosing homeschooling over public education and will offer encouragement and advice to homeschoolers everywhere, as well as provide information for families considering homeschooling.
Member Price: Free
Non-Member Price: Free!
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