The Mayneses educate their children year-round, taking time off when the family performs in community theater performances. Typically, kids do their jobs in the morning, then book work three or four hours a day, then activities, including with a home-school dance studio that includes about 150 families.

Davis, Alpine and Washington school districts have online outreach programs open to any home-schooling family in the state. Called the Utah Online Academy, the program delivers to parents goods — from chemistry beakers to textbooks — an online curriculum and a certified teacher to assist parents in their endeavor.

The program started in Davis about four years ago with 20 students. Enrollment two years later was at 500; about 1,000 participate now, including up-and-coming athletes who need flexible schooling times, Belnap said.

"We're serving those kids, they're learning, parents are happy, and that's what's we're about," said Kathie Bone, Davis District director of elementary schools.

"Once they get it, we get to go (on)," said Tooele mom Kristina Putter, who one day plans to enroll her four children in public school for activities and other opportunities. "At this age, they need more self-esteem and confidence before they're thrown into that world. They will be able to say, 'Hey, I'm a leader, not a follower.' That is my goal."

Overall, home schooling is a lot of work for families. But Box Elder parent Terri Bush says it's well worth it.

"Once you ... get used to it, it's not a problem at all. It's just a way of life," Bush said. "You can include almost anything in your life to make a learning situation for your children."

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E-mail: jtcook@desnews.com