You're Invited: Walla Walla's First Homeschool Resource Fair
You're doing something important. You're building an education that fits your family, honors your child's pace, and reflects what matters most to you. But that doesn't mean it's easy.
You may be getting started and feeling overwhelmed by the choices. Or maybe you're a few years in, but you're hitting new challenges—high school transcripts, multiple ages, burnout. Or maybe, like many homeschoolers in the Walla Walla Valley, you're simply looking for real-life connections, encouragement, and a better sense of what's available in our local community.
That's where the Homeschool Resource Fair comes in.
This event was designed to be more than an info dump or a vendor hall. It's a chance to get inspired, gather ideas, and—most importantly—meet other families who are navigating the same journey you are. If you've ever wondered, "Are there other people homeschooling like I am?" or "Where do I even start?"—this is the place for you.
The Vision Behind the Fair
Homeschooling is inherently local. The learning happens in your home, backyard, neighborhood library, and kitchen table. But often, it can feel like you're doing it alone. The Homeschool Resource Fair is here to change that.
This one-day event brings together experienced homeschoolers, helpful resources, and local organizations to help you feel less isolated and more empowered. Whether you're brand new or a decade in, this is your space to ask questions, explore what's out there, and leave with practical next steps—and a few new connections.
The Details
Date: Friday, May 16, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Location: Amazing Grace Church, Walla Walla
Admission: Free
The doors open at 10:00 AM for early browsing. Come when you can, and stay as long as you'd like.
What You'll Experience
Throughout the day, you'll be able to explore booths from local vendors and organizations, shop the used book sale, check out real curriculum samples in our "petting zoo" room, and participate in targeted breakout sessions designed to meet you right where you are.
Here's a closer look at our speaker lineup for the day:
10:00 AM – Welcome and Orientation
We'll start the day with a quick overview of the schedule, how to participate in the raffle, and where to find everything on-site. Whether you want to sit in every session or just meander through the vendor booths, you'll know exactly what's available and where to go.
10:15 AM – Breakout Session Block 1 (Choose One)
Intro to Homeschooling in Washington State
If you're exploring homeschooling or have recently withdrawn from public school, this session will walk you through the legal requirements, common approaches, and what you actually need to get started. We'll demystify the process and give you space to ask questions without judgment.
Panel: Homeschooling Through High School—Yes, You Can!
Led by experienced homeschool parents, this panel offers insight and encouragement for navigating the high school years at home. You'll hear about different paths—Running Start, apprenticeships, college prep, trades—and leave knowing you're not alone in figuring it all out.
11:00 AM – Morning Break
Stretch your legs, refill your coffee, browse the vendor tables, and chat with new friends.
11:15 AM – Breakout Session Block 2
How to Choose the Right Curriculum for Your Family
This session isn't a curriculum showcase—it's a guide to thinking well about your educational values, children's learning styles, and family rhythm. It's about finding what fits you, not someone else's Instagram grid. You'll leave with questions worth asking and clarity around what matters most.
12:00–1:15 PM – Lunch, Book Sale, and Curriculum Petting Zoo
Bring your own lunch and sit down with other families. This is your chance to slow down and connect. The used book sale will be open during this time, as well as our curriculum, "Petting Zoo," which is a quiet room where you can flip through well-loved materials to see how different options look and feel in real life.
We'll also have a free table for community sharing. Drop off resources you no longer need and pick up a few new ones. If you want to sign up for a table space, please sign up here.
1:15 PM – Breakout Session Block 3
Minimum Requirements to Launch: Life Skills Before They Leave Home
This session isn't about transcripts or test scores—it's about preparing your child to be a capable, thoughtful adult. What do they really need to know before they move out? What habits, skills, and mindsets will help them thrive? Whether your kids are in elementary school or approaching graduation, you'll leave with a clearer sense of where you're headed and how to get there.
2:00 PM – Vendor Time and Raffle Entry Drop-Off
Use this time to check with local service providers, community organizations, and homeschool programs. Submit your raffle entries—one for every session you attend—and enter to win prizes from some of our favorite local businesses.
2:30 PM – Bonus Session (Tentative)
We're keeping this time slot open for a possible bonus session, such as "How to Start a Homeschool Co-op." Final details will be announced soon.
3:15 PM – Raffle Prize Giveaway and Closing Remarks
We'll wrap up the day with a community raffle giveaway. You must be present to win, so make sure to stick around! It's our way of saying thanks for spending the day with us—and hopefully sending you home with something useful or fun.
Who Should Come?
If you're a homeschooling parent in the Walla Walla Valley—or you're thinking about becoming one—this event is for you. We've intentionally designed the day to be accessible to all stages and styles of homeschooling, whether you use a classical curriculum, follow a child-led approach, or are just trying to make it through the week.
You don't need to have it all figured out. You just need to show up.
What You'll Walk Away With
Greater clarity around your homeschool goals
Encouragement from real families who get it
Practical advice and next steps for your specific season
New community connections
Helpful resources, curriculum leads, and maybe even a prize
We're Here to Help You Build a Homeschool That Works
At Homeschooling Walla Walla, we believe in the power of local connection. We know how valuable it is to ask a question in person, meet someone who's been in your shoes, and find support that feels personal, not generic. That's what this day is all about.
You're the one leading your homeschool. But you don't have to do it alone.
We hope to see you on May 16.
If you have questions, need directions, or want to volunteer, you can reach us at hello@homeschoolingwallawalla.com.
Let's build something beautiful together.