Embracing School Choice

As a homeschooling family, we obviously think homeschool is a good choice. And I wholly approve the parental right to determine what each family thinks is best. That being said, I don’t sit here and think that homeschooling is the best choice for every family. I think it’s a choice parents need to make themselves.

Taking a Different Path

When we first started homeschooling it was rough. I almost abandoned it completely. (You can read all about that here!) Today we are so vested in it, and so pleased with the results, we have no plans of turning back.

But school choice isn’t limited to only public school or homeschool. There are so many options out there today to choose from: public, home, private, online or distance learning, charter. Like I said, there are a lot. Each option has its own set of pros and cons. Goods and bads that only each family can determine for themselves.

What’s Best For One Is Not Always What’s Best For Another

With so many options available, it’s understandable that one choice might work great for one family but no so well for another. I still have plenty of friends with kids in public schools. I have plenty of friends with kids who homeschool. It’s ok. Some families don’t have the time for homeschool, the funds for private, or the technology for online. It’s ok.

What’s not OK is simply settling. Evaluate your child’s education. Looks at papers, report cards, assignments. Talk with teachers and your kids to see how things are going. One of my biggest issues with the public school system is the conveyor-belt style education that leaves no room for a struggling student or an accelerated one. But regardless of how your child is educated, be involved.

Is It Time To Make A Change?

If you think it’s time to make a change, then it’s time to make a change. If you don’t feel your child is receiving the best education possible it’s time to embrace school choice. Researching your options can be overwhelming, but it’s time well spent. Learning how to improve your child’s education, and doing so, can be one of the best things you do for your child.

Sometimes involvement in the system is all it takes. Teacher meetings, assignment logs, and a little accountability can be just what your child needs. Maybe they are not trying because they don’t think you care, or they don’t see the value in learning. Make sure they know you do care, and try to get them to see the value. Easier said than done… I know. I have one who doesn’t care for science but wants to be a doctor. We’re working on it.

But sometimes it’s time to move on. It’s time to look into the other options out there. School choice recently became a hot topic with the change in administration. Now, I am not going to get political here, because politics are not necessary in education in my opinion. What is necessary for education is quality materials, motivated children, accountability, and options. Not just where you go to school, but what you learn, how you are taught, and what is expected. Kids are not carbon copies of one another, and just like their taste in clothes, music, and friends vary, their learning styles do as well. Kids need to be taught in a way they can learn.

Looking For Help?

If you are looking for help feel free to contact me! I would love to help you figure our your best choice for educating your child. It’s not always easy, I know. And it’s not a one-time thing either. As a parent, you need to be pro-active and always making sure you are doing the best you can.

It’s normal to be overwhelmed, confused, and even nervous about making a change. Any change can be difficult, but this can be done. With some planning, some research, and the knowledge you are doing the best you can, you can embrace school choice for your family.

How are your children currently receiving their education? Comment below!