Statistics indicate that across the United States homeschooling is on the rise as the latest educational trend. Locally, in the zip code mailing areas of Emmitsburg, Thurmont, Rocky Ridge and Sabillasville there are a total of 159 students being homeschooled this year.

A new monthly online resource will makes its debut on April 1 as to help the homeschooling community stay connected with one another and offer a chance to pull resources to develop educational and extracurricular programs.

Homeschool Frederick! at www.homeschoolfrederick.com, is Frederick County’s official educational and networking portal for home-based educators and organizations with products and services that serve this ever-growing and diverse community.

"Homeschool Frederick!, an online educational powerhouse for local homeschoolers, affords new ideas, connections, and programs for newcomers and veterans alike," says founder Krista Thomas. "Where else will you find local homeschooling-related humor, timely articles, top pick events within driving distance, networking groups, and update MSDE rules and regulations?"

Thomas, home-based educator and small business owner, accomplished the design and development of Homeschool Frederick! with the encouragement and guidance from homeschooling colleagues and Frederick County Public Schools’ Student Services personnel Ron Johnston and Gary Marple. As a public service project, the online resource introduces the community to a wealth of research so the homeschooler doesn’t have to "reinvent the wheel," so states Thomas.

This month’s debut issue includes the latest information and listings of area homeschool conferences and curriculum fairs, support organizations, top pick family-friendly events for April and May, and FCPS’ top ten homeschooling FAQs. Site visitors subscribing to Homeschool Frederick! will receive periodic alerts including a reminder when the next issue will post online. For more information, visit www.homeschoolfrederick.com or call 301-865-2715.