Being a mother in America right now is scarier than ever. School shootings, and active shootings in general, have been on the rise over the last decade. The most recent tragedy occurred at a Texas Elementary School, where nineteen precious babies were viciously robbed of their lives, by a lone active shooter. These children were the same age as my middle child, and the same grade he would be starting next (fourth). I had considered homeschooling my children, for a few years, but was always scared to take that step. After all, it's a big decision! However, this latest massacre of children, was the final straw for me.
Safety wasn't the only influencing factor. I genuinely desired to homeschool my children. I also felt that I was capable of doing so. I had worked as an educator (at the college level) in my last job, and I absolutely loved it. I already knew how to put together lesson plans, and convey information. I thought surely, if I can teach a whole classroom of young adults, I can teach one single child? My youngest is only three, so I won't have to worry about starting his schooling yet, and can focus solely on my 4th Grader, for the first year. My oldest is a junior in high school, and would not do well with either online public schooling, nor home schooling. The high school also has an SRO on campus at all times, whereas the elementary schools do not. So, I will let him finish out his education in the "traditional" manner.
In the state of Ohio, anyone who desires to homeschool their child may do so. I have a Master's degree, but the only educational requirement is a high school diploma. You simply have to fill out a notice of intent to homeschool, and send to your district Superintendent. The Superintendent will then release the child from attendance obligations. The best part is, any homeschooled child is still allowed to participate in their district's school sports, which is an amazing way to give kiddos some socialization!
Which brings me to my next topic: socialization. Many people have this misconception that homeschooled children are socially awkward strangelings, that are incapable of functioning in adult society. This is simply untrue. In fact, every homeschooled child I have ever interacted with, during my time working in the medical field, and as a college professor, were some of the most well-rounded, mature, and respectful young people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Studies have shown that children who are homeschooled achieve a higher level of academic achievement versus those attending traditional schooling, including at the college level. Although still in the minority, homeschooling is more popular than ever before, especially after all the school closures that occurred during COVID. Many parents opted to continue schooling from home.
What I like most about this process, is that I can tailor my children's learning to their individual needs. My soon to be 4th grader is very advanced, and was already working at a 4th grade level last year. He tends to learn and work quickly, so I can easily introduce 5th grade concepts, rather than have him sitting bored and distracted in a classroom, because he isn't being challenged enough. Homeschooling has also shown to create a stronger bond amongst siblings. My youngest loves being around his big brother, and I love the idea of them learning together, and having that sibling bonding time. They would not ever be able to do that in a traditional classroom setting.
Despite having previous experience as an educator, I am still quite nervous to take on this important and hefty task! Most homeschooling mamas say the first few months require the most adjustment. Luckily, I have the entire summer break to gather materials, and lesson plan, and prepare for our family's big change. For now, with my youngest two, I will take homeschooling year by year. There are tons of local Facebook groups, and homeschooling blogs to use as resources. There are free pintable's, and free online activities to supplement textbooks. You can even do entire subject lessons online, if you so desire. I plan to use a combination of workbooks and supplement with independent online activities. I will definitely update on my journey as a homeschooling mama, as we begin this exciting (and a little scary) new chapter!