Parents may face the decision to homeschool their tween
My husband I decided to take our 13 year old daughter, Sammi out of middle school this year, which is 8th grade. We made this choice after much deliberation and after questioning the school professionals we trust, her pediatrician, her neurologist and her therapist. Our choice came about mainly because Sammi missed a great deal of school in 7th grade due to health issues, including Sinus Tachycardia, borderline Long QT syndrome (which prevents her from taking many medications) and having a tonsillectomy. Although she had a 504 Plan, which took into consideration her need to be absent frequently and a homebound teacher, she continuously missed school work. A big part of the problem is that she wouldn’t ask her teacher’s for make up work (partly due to anxiety, partly because she felt she couldn’t handle all of it).
Try as we would with the school’s administration, letters from the neurologist who wanted her tested for Processing Disorders, and multiple meetings including her IEP meetings, it seemed as if we hit a brick wall. For a child who scored a 5 in Reading and a 3 in Math on her FCAT, who enjoys reading and science, she was miserable at school. She felt like a failure.
Not wanting this for our daughter, we made the decision to enter her into Florida Virtual School. This is an online, accredited homeschool program with professional teachers. Sammi likes to use the computer and is looking forward to getting started with her classes. There are clubs that she can join and I am looking into sports and other activities for her.
Her homeschooling will end after 8th grade. She will return to public school for high school, but for now our decision is to homeschool.
How did you make the decision to homeschool your child?
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Twitter: FoundtheMarbles
says:
I think a virtual school is a great alternative for those who are feeling conflicted about home schooling. We have friends who have had great success with this option. Good luck!
Jessica recently posted..Changing the End of the Story
Twitter: 89linz
says:
I understand the need for homeschooling for some students. I believe that if a child’s needs can’t be met at the public school or there are circumstances where schooling at home would prove to be more beneficial for a child, I agree with it completely. I know it was a hard decision to make and I hope this year is more enjoyable for your daughter.
Lindsay recently posted..Elmers School Glue Giveaway
Twitter: Pamlovesbooks
says:
i have often offered to homeschool my children. i think it is a parent’s right. good luck!
pammypam recently posted..I Hardly Ever Wash My Hands – TLC book Tour
For me I don’t want my kids to take the homeschool class because I want them to develop their skills outside our home.
Embeth Gray recently posted..EyeSecrets Instant Eye Lift Secret
Twitter: juliempron
says:
wow, Connie. This is a BIG decision and it sounds like the best one for Sammi. I wish you well and look forward to following your experience this year.
julie recently posted..Back safety: teach your kids to pack their backpacks
Twitter: blm03
says:
You had to do what was best for her, and sometimes the local school isn’t the best choice. Good luck for this school year!
Lisa recently posted..Wednesday’s Hero
Twitter: hchybinski
says:
wow what a big decision. . .sounds like you’ve done your research – Good Luck!!
Hillary
hchybinski recently posted..#vlogmom | Celebrity Shopping Trip
Twitter: candaceapril
says:
Sounds like you made the right decision. I’m always open to the possibility but, so far, my daughter is enjoying public school and we’ve been able to meet her needs with her teacher. If it ever came to the point that she was miserable or the schools couldn’t meet her needs, then we would need to reevaluate. Best of luck!
Candace recently posted..Shark Week Kids Craft: Duct Tape Paper Cup Shark
Twitter: MomMaven
says:
As a former public school teacher and a 16 year homeschooling veteran I say KUDOS Connie! Florida is a great state to homeschool in and if I can be of any help with resources please don’t hesitate to ask. Good luck with FLVS, we never used it but I’ve heard very mixed reviews.
Cindy recently posted..Mabel’s Labels Helps Your Child’s Belongings Come Back Home
Twitter: momof3boys3702
says:
It is great that you are all on the same page with her education. That will go a long way for her being successful.
Kelli recently posted..GIVEAWAY: Post It Back to School Package! #backtoschool