To make these decisions, it’s helpful to understand why states have a set curriculum (or areas to cover within a subject) for each grade level. They do this so that the education is standard for every student. Each teacher knows what is covered the year before and therefore doesn’t overlap in their teaching. A student can move from one school to another seamlessly. It makes it very easy for the school administration.
Read more on How do I know what I’m supposed to teach my kids?…
1. How will my kids make friends? Consider this….you don’t attend school and you have friends. How did you find friends? Are the kids in their class at school really friends? Or are they just other kids that they have to find something in common with? School may come with instant friends, but true friendship is based on shared interests and last much longer than elementary school.
1. Create your own private school of 1 (or more) students by filing a private school affidavit.
2. Homeschool through a charter school that offers an independent study option. Here is a map of the charter schools in California.
Mentoring is key to becoming a strong homeschooling parent. Look for and find someone you respect who is homeschooling their children. It may be a well known author. If so, read all their books. It may be someone you admire from afar. Ask that person to have coffee. They will most likely be flattered that you think so highly of them. It may be a close friend or family member. If so, you may feel comfortable asking them to mentor you. Regardless of your situation, find someone who can encourage you on your homeschool journey.
Race to Nowhere
Thought provoking…it made me really sad for these kids. What do you think? Do you agree?