Monday Jul 21, 2025

Homeschool Freedoms: Lessons from a Pioneer Mom, Barbara West

Have you ever wondered what it takes to pioneer enormous change in homeschooling freedoms—and what lessons current families can draw from those trailblazers? In this episode of The Colorado Homeschool Podcast, Homeschool Freedoms: Lessons from a Pioneer Mom, Barbara West, host Kashia Davis sits down with Barbara West, a true homeschooling pioneer whose decades of experience span multiple states, military life, and international moves.

Barbara West, along with her husband Bruce, began homeschooling in the early years of the modern homeschool movement—when it was barely legal and certainly misunderstood. Known for her leadership in creating vibrant homeschooling communities (including the popular Facebook group Homeschooling Colorado and the Colorado Springs Homeschool Sports League), Barbara brings wisdom earned from homeschooling five children (three adopted, some with learning differences), advocating for homeschool freedoms across state lines, and fighting for legislative change—often behind the scenes and always with faith-fueled courage.

Tune in for actionable strategies to:

  • Build confidence as a homeschool parent and advocate for your family
  • Find encouragement amid doubt or criticism
  • Embrace flexibility and trust in your child's unique learning path
  • Understand why community and political engagement matter for lasting educational freedom

Plus, you'll be inspired by Barbara's stories—like the time she single-handedly helped eliminate unconstitutional home visits for homeschoolers in South Dakota, and how she’s learned through trial, error, and faith to let go of perfection.

If you’re a homeschool parent looking for practical tips, heartfelt encouragement, and a glimpse into the history and heart that sustains our freedoms today, this episode is for you.

Be sure to subscribe to The Colorado Homeschool Podcast so you never miss moments of wisdom, support, and stories that remind you: one person (like you!) really can make a difference. Listen now and join a community committed to Christ-centered, parent-directed home education!

Links: 

https://ghex.world/

https://www.cshsl.org/

 

The Colorado Homeschool podcast is a ministry of Christian Home Educators of Colorado. We have been motivating parents to disciple the next generation by embracing home discipleship that is Christ centered, parent directed, and free from government control. We invite you to join us in this mission. If you’re looking for support, resources, and inspiration on your homeschooling journey, visit CHEC.org. Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast and share it with anyone who might benefit from the wisdom shared in this episode!

If you want to support homeschooling in Colorado go to CHEC.org/donate.

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