A nod to homeschooling

I don't remember when it was exactly that I learned that Starbucks was giving away free coffee on Monday's to teachers for the month of September (uh...maybe a run on sentence). Anyway, being a homeschool mom, I emailed the company to find out if they would recognize homeschoolers as part of this giveaway.

The company responded that only teachers, K-12, with proof of employment at a school would be granted the free coffee. It was a very polite response, please don't get me wrong-but denied just the same.

In my mind, it was ok. My hubby is a teacher so he picked up a cup for me on his way home one Monday afternoon. It was very strong-STRONG, coffee. But apparently, someone else was not quite as content.

Today, I received an email from the HSLDA (home school legal defense association) that stated the following:

Starbucks Offers Free Coffee for Homeschool Parents

This coming Monday, September 29, homeschool parents will be able to pick up a complimentary tall size (12 fl. oz.) cup of Pike Place Roast from Starbucks.

This promotion is part of Starbucks “Great Start for Great Teachers” promotion, and is now open to all teachers.

HSLDA intervened when we were alerted that homeschool parents were not included in the promotion.

We are pleased that Starbucks is recognizing the contribution of homeschool parents by extending their program to us.

In order to pick up your free cup of Pike Place Roast you will need to present evidence that you are a homeschooler.

Any one item on the following list should be accepted by Starbucks:

• Home School Legal Defense Association membership card.
• Membership card from a state homeschooling organization.
• Notification from a school district or state government recognizing compliance with compulsory attendance.
• Paperwork submitted showing intent to establish a homeschool program.
• Paperwork showing the establishment of a private school.

If you don’t have one of the items on this list be creative and try to provide other proof of homeschooling.

Please note: the final decision about whether to accept proof of homeschooling resides with Starbucks.

We hope you choose to take advantage of this offer.