Atlanta Homeschool Families have a New Classroom to Explore, and it’s 176 Years Old

Looking for an engaging, hands-on day of learning that gets kids out of the house? Look no further — Oakland Homeschool Days are back!

Led by Oakland’s Director of Education & Youth Programs Ted Ward, these programs offer students the opportunity to engage with one of Atlanta’s most historic landmarks through interactive activities and lessons led by experts across fields, including history, preservation, and horticulture.

Offered on a Tuesday every month during the school year, each Homeschool Day explores a different theme, from Women’s History to multimedia art. Families meet at the Oakland Visitor Center for indoor programming, then venture out into the Cemetery or Bell Tower for more activities throughout the day!

Upcoming Homeschool Days include:

Stories in Stone: Where Memory Meets Monument 

Tuesday, January 27th (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)

For our first Homeschool Day program in 2026, students will explore the fascinating intersection of geology, art, and memorialization used in Oakland Cemetery’s monuments. They will uncover how symbolism and design have evolved across historical eras to honor life and remember those who have passed. Participants will then apply these insights creatively by designing their own monument for an Oakland resident, thoughtfully incorporating symbolic elements and architectural styles. This hands-on program blends history, art, and storytelling to bring the stories in stone to life. 

Paths of Progress: The Story of Black Atlanta 

Tuesday, February 24th (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)

Join Oakland in recognizing and celebrating Black History month, as we invite students to uncover the remarkable contributions of African American residents at Oakland Cemetery and their role in shaping Atlanta’s historically Black communities. Participants will examine the influence of HBCUs on social, economic, and political empowerment and explore how Black churches and community leaders created opportunities and strengthened neighborhoods. Through storytelling, discussion, and historical investigation, students will gain a deeper understanding of Atlanta’s rich African American heritage and the legacies that continue to shape the city today. 

Her Story, Our History: Women of Oakland

Tuesday, March 31st (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)  

In honor of Women’s History month, we are excited to provide students with an opportunity to explore the vital roles women have played in shaping Atlanta’s economic, political, and cultural landscape. Participants will examine how women overcame barriers to power, study the rehabilitation of Oakland’s Women’s Comfort Station, and consider the lasting impact of women in the city’s development. Through hands-on investigation and storytelling, students will gain insight into the legacies of women who helped define contemporary Atlanta. 

Earth Explorers: Citizen Science at Oakland Cemetery 

Tuesday, April 28th (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM) 

Join Oakland in celebrating Earth Day with a Homeschool Day program that engages students in hands-on ecological investigation within the cemetery’s natural spaces. Participants will document bird species and their behaviors, learn about the role of native plants in supporting biodiversity, and design and plant a garden to attract pollinators. This interactive program fosters observation, scientific inquiry, and environmental stewardship while connecting students with the living ecosystem of Oakland

Creative Grounds: Oakland’s Artists

Tuesday, May 19th (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM) 

As we close out the 2025-26 school year, we invite students to explore the rich artistic and architectural heritage of Oakland Cemetery. Participants will identify diverse architectural styles and artistic movements, discover works by artists featured in Oakland’s Illumine program, and express their own creativity by designing a multi-media art piece representing their personal goals. This hands-on program blends art history, observation, and self-expression, allowing students to connect with both the past and their own creative visions. 

“We have received such a positive response from Homeschool Families looking for unique and interactive programs in Atlanta. We can’t wait to welcome new and returning families back to Oakland to learn and experience everything we have to offer in 2026,” says Ted Ward, Director of Education & Youth Programs at Oakland. Head to our Homeschool Days webpage to learn more and register your child.