Homeschooling families from across the state will participate in the 33rd annual Virginia Homeschool Convention, set for June 9-11 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

This year’s convention promises to be bigger than ever as more Virginia parents evaluate alternatives to public education.

Keynote speakers include former NFL player and homeschooling dad Shaun Alexander, Alex Kendrick, whose movie “War Room” grossed more than $67 million last year, and topped DVD sales when released in December, and Home School Legal Defense Association President Michael Farris.

In addition, families can participate in hands-on science experiments, shark dissections, the Camp Infinity Robotics Program and Wild Earth Encounters’ wild animal expo. A Robotics Expo, College Fair and storytelling are part of the 143,000 square feet of books, puzzles, new and used curricula, CDs, DVDs, games and hands-on exhibits available for attendees of all ages.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, the number of American children, age 5-17, who are homeschooled by their parents climbed by 61.8 percent between 2003 and 2012.

At the same time, the percentage of all American children who are homeschooled increased from 2.2 percent to 3.4 percent.

“Homeschooling is growing because it allows the world to be our children’s ‘classroom.’ It allows for flexibility, individuality, and immersive learning,” HEAV president Anne Miller said.

“And, while parents come to home education for many reasons, the convention offers them three days of unparalleled support, resources, encouragement and instruction.”

For more information and to register, visit www.heav.org or call (804) 278-9200.

The Home Educators Association of Virginia strengthens and empowers more than 30,000 homeschoolers throughout the commonwealth.

HEAV, a statewide, member-supported, nonprofit association, has served Virginia homeschool families through information, legislation, and resources for more than 30 years.