Today is typically the first day of school here in West Clermont. New clothes and supplies are purchased, lunches are packed. There is an excitement in the air; another year of learning. Well, this is still the case at my home, even though my 12-year-old has made the decision to be homeschooled.
At first, it seemed like a tough decision for her, as we talked about what days would be like away from the regimented schedules at the public school. Actually, I first introduced the idea of homeschooling two years ago at the end of her 5th grade year. I told her to keep a tally of the hours that she was actually learning something in school. This meant without interruption from other classmates such as students being corrected for talking or not paying attention or people coming in and out of the classroom gathering supplies that they had forgotten when changing classes. (As a former substitute teacher, one knows the time for instruction is quite slim when you weed out such happenings.) She was amazed at the time she had instruction without interruption. Many days, she spent helping other students who were behind in class. Yes, this adds character and tolerance, but she needed to be challenged.
And so after having made a ‘pros and cons’ list, she could only come up with one negative. And it is a biggie…not being with friends. We have solved this issue by signing her up to play Rec volleyball and volleyball. Plus, having sleepovers on the weekends will help her feel connected to these all-important relationships.
My main reason for making this decision was due to our school district’s financial mess. During the 2011-12 school year, the 8 elementary schools in our district had no Art, Music, Gym or Library. Busing was only for those who lived over 2 miles from their school. Play to play was enacted for the high school, whether it be sports or any extra-circular activity. Not to mention, many wonderful teachers were cut. (Administration cuts, not so much.) I know that if the 7.9 mils levy on the ballot this November doesn’t pass, 3-5 mils will again be cut from the budget. After another Assistant Principle was hired, I knew that this administration was not moving in the best direction. And if more cuts were made, they have to be at the middle school. I don’t want her to have less opportunity. I want more.
With the homeschool program we have chosen, we will be able to infuse her daily subjects with Faith Formation, fieldtrips, and other travel. We have joined the Cincinnati Museum Center and have signed up for classes. We just saw the Pompeii exhibit, which was absolutely wonderful. We are all excited for the coming year and what our freedom of learning will bring to all of us.
Union Township Precinct 'D' 