Read this excellent commentary on compulsory school attendance laws, the advent of mass schooling, the obliteration of family cohesion thanks to both of these and, of course, his take on homeschooling.
The author notes,
" In 1860, one-third of the 300 high schools in the country were located in Massachusetts, where the school year was twelve weeks long, and only six of those weeks were consecutive. Even by 1890, the school year was only twelve to twenty weeks. Even by 1900, only six percent of American teenagers had graduated high school, only two percent of Americans 18 through 24 were enrolled in a college.
While most Americans had attended an elementary school of some sort prior to 1900, they spent no more than two to three years in it, if that — perhaps forty weeks total. While in school, they were generally not learning to read. They learned that at home."
Steve Kellmeyer
April 28, 2005
For most Americans, homeschooling seems rather odd. Why bother with it? We have had public and private schools with us all of our lives, as have our parents before us and their parents before them from time immemorial. Why not stick with what works? The thought would be touching, if it were historically accurate. It isn't.
The concept of compulsory schools with mass attendance is a radically new idea to Western civilization, no older than industrialization. Indeed, industrialization arguably could not have taken place without the mass school, and therein lies a tale.
Friday, April 29, 2005
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Author Joel Turtel hates public school... His new book making waves and headlines - "Public Schools, Public Menace" states his case but beware...
After doing a little research into Mr. Turtel's book and web site, I also discovered that
one of his quick fix answers is for parents to pull their kids out of school and simply
enroll them in one of these new "internet schools" because in his words,
"These schools take most of the home-schooling burden off parents' backs,
yet can give children a low-cost, quality education at home."
I ask, "Is that what homeschooling is?... a burden?... then why do it?"
Once again, well-meaning (?) "experts" are dangerously diluting the real meaning of
homeschooling and assuming that "a quality education" comes in the
form of ready-made teachers, workbooks, tests, and report cards.
This is a dangerous and misleading path itself. It erodes the foundation
laid by child and family advocates like John Holt, Raymond and
Dorothy Moore, Pat Montgomery, Mark and Helen Hegener who
sacrificed and fought to build the modern homeschool movement.
Homeschooling is so much more than simply removing children
from the system and marching them into cyber school which may very
likely duplicate much of what is bad about traditional schools.
Homeschooling means COMMITTED parents who are willing to
make sacrifices for their children. It means GIVING TIME to children.
It means WORKING toward building healthy and happy relationships
in the family.It means DEVOTING ENERGY to work in the home and
in the community.
"Boxed" programs have always been available from the first
moment homeschooling and homeschoolers were recognized
as marketing targets. Now cybers and charters and people
like Mr. Turtel are tempting parents for all the wrong reasons...
Parents will be simply switching straitjackets.
Academic achievement is the very smallest part of homeschooling.
There is so much more involved. All parents need to understand this
before they make such an important life changing decision and especially
before they plug their children into a computer for hours a day.
Let's get back to the basics of homeschooling and learning in freedom.
To read more on meaningful homeschooling visit:
What Does Real Homeschooling Mean?
Ann Larhson Fisher's "Fundamentals of Homeschooing" article
When Education Becomes Abuse
The Case for Homeschooling Young Children
The Golden Age of Homeschooling (Helen Hegener)
one of his quick fix answers is for parents to pull their kids out of school and simply
enroll them in one of these new "internet schools" because in his words,
"These schools take most of the home-schooling burden off parents' backs,
yet can give children a low-cost, quality education at home."
I ask, "Is that what homeschooling is?... a burden?... then why do it?"
Once again, well-meaning (?) "experts" are dangerously diluting the real meaning of
homeschooling and assuming that "a quality education" comes in the
form of ready-made teachers, workbooks, tests, and report cards.
This is a dangerous and misleading path itself. It erodes the foundation
laid by child and family advocates like John Holt, Raymond and
Dorothy Moore, Pat Montgomery, Mark and Helen Hegener who
sacrificed and fought to build the modern homeschool movement.
Homeschooling is so much more than simply removing children
from the system and marching them into cyber school which may very
likely duplicate much of what is bad about traditional schools.
Homeschooling means COMMITTED parents who are willing to
make sacrifices for their children. It means GIVING TIME to children.
It means WORKING toward building healthy and happy relationships
in the family.It means DEVOTING ENERGY to work in the home and
in the community.
"Boxed" programs have always been available from the first
moment homeschooling and homeschoolers were recognized
as marketing targets. Now cybers and charters and people
like Mr. Turtel are tempting parents for all the wrong reasons...
Parents will be simply switching straitjackets.
Academic achievement is the very smallest part of homeschooling.
There is so much more involved. All parents need to understand this
before they make such an important life changing decision and especially
before they plug their children into a computer for hours a day.
Let's get back to the basics of homeschooling and learning in freedom.
To read more on meaningful homeschooling visit:
What Does Real Homeschooling Mean?
Ann Larhson Fisher's "Fundamentals of Homeschooing" article
When Education Becomes Abuse
The Case for Homeschooling Young Children
The Golden Age of Homeschooling (Helen Hegener)
More on Mr. Thomas who remains steadfast in his opposition even after drawing much attention...
THOMAS: Not persuaded by home-schoolers arguments
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
By Scott Thomas
OPINION - Thanks for all the good reading. Insults and over-reactions aside, I enjoyed the outpouring of emails I received through Illinoisleader.com and at the radio station in response to my observations of home schooling. It is interesting to observe a very small minority respond with such passion.
In response to last week’s column, I was treated to dozens of testimonials from proud home schoolers, both parents and former students who consider their home school experiences to be successful.
Quite honestly, some of the “successful” results that were presented actually re-enforced my concerns, but more often than not, I was persuaded that, for some folks, home schooling is the best option for their families.
But, I had already acknowledged that. My point was not that home schooling isn’t right for some. My point was it probably wasn’t right for most.
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
By Scott Thomas
OPINION - Thanks for all the good reading. Insults and over-reactions aside, I enjoyed the outpouring of emails I received through Illinoisleader.com and at the radio station in response to my observations of home schooling. It is interesting to observe a very small minority respond with such passion.
In response to last week’s column, I was treated to dozens of testimonials from proud home schoolers, both parents and former students who consider their home school experiences to be successful.
Quite honestly, some of the “successful” results that were presented actually re-enforced my concerns, but more often than not, I was persuaded that, for some folks, home schooling is the best option for their families.
But, I had already acknowledged that. My point was not that home schooling isn’t right for some. My point was it probably wasn’t right for most.
Another positive experience - Home school works well...
Home school works well for Liechtys
By Nick Schneider, STAFF WRITER
Making the decision to home school her son was an easy one for Connie Liechty of Linton, but she admits home schooling is not for every student and not for every family.
However, Josh Liechty and his mother, who formerly taught elementary school for 8 1/2 years in northern Indiana, agree in their case it was a perfect fit.
"It was right for us. It is a commitment," she stated. "You have to make choices. I didn't work outside of the home so financially we chose a little bit harder way to go than someone else maybe."
Connie Liechty said teaching her son has not really been a challenge because he has been a self-starter who loves to read and study new things on his own.
By Nick Schneider, STAFF WRITER
Making the decision to home school her son was an easy one for Connie Liechty of Linton, but she admits home schooling is not for every student and not for every family.
However, Josh Liechty and his mother, who formerly taught elementary school for 8 1/2 years in northern Indiana, agree in their case it was a perfect fit.
"It was right for us. It is a commitment," she stated. "You have to make choices. I didn't work outside of the home so financially we chose a little bit harder way to go than someone else maybe."
Connie Liechty said teaching her son has not really been a challenge because he has been a self-starter who loves to read and study new things on his own.
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
The Farm School - programs for homeschoolers, too
If you saw the article about the Farm School's adult apprentice program
(in MA), you might have been so impressed that you wondered if
they offered anything to children or teens - and they do!
The article I'm referring to is: Farm School students
tread new ground - published on CNN. Read article
To learn more about The Farm School programs, just
click on the title above to go to their
web site. I'd like to see more of this type of
practical education in every state.
(in MA), you might have been so impressed that you wondered if
they offered anything to children or teens - and they do!
The article I'm referring to is: Farm School students
tread new ground - published on CNN. Read article
To learn more about The Farm School programs, just
click on the title above to go to their
web site. I'd like to see more of this type of
practical education in every state.
New England Homeschool & Family Learning Conference Updates
New England Homeschool & Family Learning Conference Updates
The updates for the 2005 New England Homeschool and Family Conference which is scheduled for July 15, 16, 2005 • Boxborough Woods Holiday Inn, Boxborough, MA • Favorite (and world-renowned) storyteller and entertainer Jim Weiss will be returning with new workshops and more presentations. The Family Resource Center will present their second annual Museum Education EXPO featuring dozens of museum education exhibits workshops for children and teens. Other speakers include National Home Education Legal Defense founder and attorney Deborah Stevenson, early learning specialist Dr. Susan Snyder, author Amelia Haper (Literary Lessons from the Lord of the Rings), organizational guru Cheryl Carter and her husband Derek, gifted educator Josh Shaine, government school critique and homeschool advocate Samuel Blumenfeld and many more. Please check the conference pages for this week's updated information. Conference Home Page
The updates for the 2005 New England Homeschool and Family Conference which is scheduled for July 15, 16, 2005 • Boxborough Woods Holiday Inn, Boxborough, MA • Favorite (and world-renowned) storyteller and entertainer Jim Weiss will be returning with new workshops and more presentations. The Family Resource Center will present their second annual Museum Education EXPO featuring dozens of museum education exhibits workshops for children and teens. Other speakers include National Home Education Legal Defense founder and attorney Deborah Stevenson, early learning specialist Dr. Susan Snyder, author Amelia Haper (Literary Lessons from the Lord of the Rings), organizational guru Cheryl Carter and her husband Derek, gifted educator Josh Shaine, government school critique and homeschool advocate Samuel Blumenfeld and many more. Please check the conference pages for this week's updated information. Conference Home Page
Ode to Mothers (and parents)
From the editor: I received this via email from a reader in Washington state and thought I'd pass its encouraging words on now.
Ode to Mothers (and parents)
Mothers' Day is the day when we celebrate Moms and the job they do. On this topic, I wish to share an anecdotal story from my life: I was in the store yesterday, with my children, and as I was checking out I noticed that the cashier was smiling at my toddler, telling her how cute she was and ignoring my 7-year-old son. That is fine, not all people are interested in facts about frogs or retellings of the latest book he has read. As I was pushing my cart out the door, the cashier asked me if I heard what my son said. Her expression had changed from that of a bored woman ready for her lunch break, to one of awe and alertness. I said, "No. What did he say?" She told me he said, "I have to show respect to the ladies." He lifted his hat and said, "Goodbye," to her. She was so pleased.
On our drive home, I thought to myself what a simple thing it is to be kind to others and show proper respect. I too am pleased when young people address me as Mrs. McMeekin (not Tisha). It is another way to show respect for elders. When a bagger at the grocery store calls me Ma'am, I feel pleased about the world I live in. I know that other Mom's are doing their job.
Our children are a direct reflection on us: be it good or bad. I know that children are self-determined beings with their own will, but anyone can see that their greatest training in life, comes from their parents. So whether our job gets much validation in today's world or not, it is still a vital one. I am not an advocate of the babble that spouts: "Children will find their own way, children should not be punished for wrong doing, the boy who murdered his classmates because he ate too much sugar is the one who deserves sympathy, and so on..."
I am conveying this to all of you because I feel that we are on the front lines, protecting and defending what can be a great generation of citizens. Our children are close to us and we have chosen to walk with them through this journey of education and living.
With my deepest sincerity, I want to convey my pleasure and gratitude to the parents who have chosen to homeschool their children. I am growing as a person from my experience with it and I hope you are too.
Tisha McMeekin, WA
Ode to Mothers (and parents)
Mothers' Day is the day when we celebrate Moms and the job they do. On this topic, I wish to share an anecdotal story from my life: I was in the store yesterday, with my children, and as I was checking out I noticed that the cashier was smiling at my toddler, telling her how cute she was and ignoring my 7-year-old son. That is fine, not all people are interested in facts about frogs or retellings of the latest book he has read. As I was pushing my cart out the door, the cashier asked me if I heard what my son said. Her expression had changed from that of a bored woman ready for her lunch break, to one of awe and alertness. I said, "No. What did he say?" She told me he said, "I have to show respect to the ladies." He lifted his hat and said, "Goodbye," to her. She was so pleased.
On our drive home, I thought to myself what a simple thing it is to be kind to others and show proper respect. I too am pleased when young people address me as Mrs. McMeekin (not Tisha). It is another way to show respect for elders. When a bagger at the grocery store calls me Ma'am, I feel pleased about the world I live in. I know that other Mom's are doing their job.
Our children are a direct reflection on us: be it good or bad. I know that children are self-determined beings with their own will, but anyone can see that their greatest training in life, comes from their parents. So whether our job gets much validation in today's world or not, it is still a vital one. I am not an advocate of the babble that spouts: "Children will find their own way, children should not be punished for wrong doing, the boy who murdered his classmates because he ate too much sugar is the one who deserves sympathy, and so on..."
I am conveying this to all of you because I feel that we are on the front lines, protecting and defending what can be a great generation of citizens. Our children are close to us and we have chosen to walk with them through this journey of education and living.
With my deepest sincerity, I want to convey my pleasure and gratitude to the parents who have chosen to homeschool their children. I am growing as a person from my experience with it and I hope you are too.
Tisha McMeekin, WA
Homeschooled teen talks about her experience, says "I'm kind of like the little mother, almost."
Concord Monitor Online
Homeschooler Amanda Dennehy, 16, (center) carries Michael, 2, while family members (from left) Hannah, 12, Joe, 1, Mary, 9, and Kate, 4, play on their lawn in Salisbury. Amanda is the oldest of nine children. She has been homeschooled since she was in the fourth grade.
My parents took me out of public school just because they thought the education would be a lot better if I was homeschooled, and they just realized how many benefits there were to it.
I remember, even though I was really young, that I would sit there, just wanting to finish this phonics page up, and I'd have to wait for the teacher. But being homeschooled, I'm a lot more independent, and I can progress at my own rate. As a result, now I'm a year ahead. I also get to spend more time with my family, which I think is really important for younger people. I just think it's really good for your character.
Homeschooler Amanda Dennehy, 16, (center) carries Michael, 2, while family members (from left) Hannah, 12, Joe, 1, Mary, 9, and Kate, 4, play on their lawn in Salisbury. Amanda is the oldest of nine children. She has been homeschooled since she was in the fourth grade.
My parents took me out of public school just because they thought the education would be a lot better if I was homeschooled, and they just realized how many benefits there were to it.
I remember, even though I was really young, that I would sit there, just wanting to finish this phonics page up, and I'd have to wait for the teacher. But being homeschooled, I'm a lot more independent, and I can progress at my own rate. As a result, now I'm a year ahead. I also get to spend more time with my family, which I think is really important for younger people. I just think it's really good for your character.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
Parent's take hands-on role in homeschooling
2005-04-24
by Bonny C. Millard
of The Daily Times Staff
A parent's decision to homeschool children is based on a variety of reasons, and it is no longer the road less traveled.
The Blount Home Education Association has doubled over the last three years from 90 families to 180 families, parent Sarah Small said.
by Bonny C. Millard
of The Daily Times Staff
A parent's decision to homeschool children is based on a variety of reasons, and it is no longer the road less traveled.
The Blount Home Education Association has doubled over the last three years from 90 families to 180 families, parent Sarah Small said.
Saturday, April 23, 2005
Opposition comes from a strange source... or is he just looking to increase his ratings...
THOMAS: Home Schooling not a good idea for most
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
By Scott Thomas
OPINION - There are many keys that open Pandora’s Box. I just never know when I’m going to stumble on to one of them. My radio listening audience, however, never fails to let me know when I’ve done so.
In the last week, I have discovered that Home Schooling is one such key, especially if, as I do, you generally oppose the practice of Home Schooling.
Read his opinion
Then write him your opinion...
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
By Scott Thomas
OPINION - There are many keys that open Pandora’s Box. I just never know when I’m going to stumble on to one of them. My radio listening audience, however, never fails to let me know when I’ve done so.
In the last week, I have discovered that Home Schooling is one such key, especially if, as I do, you generally oppose the practice of Home Schooling.
Read his opinion
Then write him your opinion...
Friday, April 22, 2005
Do you have a story? An anecdote? A complaint?
Do you have a story to tell about your own homeschooling experience? How about that little
incident at the grocery store... or the day you told your relatives you were going to homeschool?
Or maybe things aren't quite so traditional at your house, or your community or state are not so friendly when it comes to homeschooling... Will you share it here? Either post it in the Comment section or send it via email to: Home Educator's Family Times: famtimes@homeeducator.com
Looking forward to hearing from you ~ Jane Boswell, Editor
incident at the grocery store... or the day you told your relatives you were going to homeschool?
Or maybe things aren't quite so traditional at your house, or your community or state are not so friendly when it comes to homeschooling... Will you share it here? Either post it in the Comment section or send it via email to: Home Educator's Family Times: famtimes@homeeducator.com
Looking forward to hearing from you ~ Jane Boswell, Editor
On the Lighter Side - "Okay Kids, It's Time for Bedlam!
Here's an excerpt from the online book by Debbie Harbeson... a lighter look at the homeschool life...
INTRODUCTION
Many thoughtful books on the subject of homeschooling have been published in recent years. Some are full of ideas about learning and take the reader into the depths of philosophical thought. Some are full of specific resources and advice about how to homeschool. This isn’t one of them.
Highly intelligent people wrote those books. I’m not one of them.
Let me give you some background. My husband John and I have two children, Melissa and Keith. I was a full-time mom from the time my first child was born. I didn’t want to miss a thing motherhood had to offer.
I wanted to be the one my children spit up on. I wanted to be the one to endure the whines and the screams. I wanted to be the one to clean up after they found the open box of cornstarch and maple syrup and thought the mixture would make a great skin lotion. But after about 6 years of this, life changed. My kids entered school.
It didn’t take long to realize I had a huge problem. I did not have enough stress in my life. So in October of 1991, when my daughter was in second grade and my son, first grade, I decided to homeschool. I saw how classrooms operated and felt confident I could do just as good a job of ignoring their individual needs.
Okay, my husband thinks I need to stop joking around, if only for a moment, and give at least some explanation of why I decided to do such an offbeat thing. He said some readers would actually want to know why our family thought homeschooling would be a good idea. For some reason, he still lives under the delusion that I might one day take his advice.
Okay, okay, readers genuinely interested in a more serious description of why I made this decision can consult the Epilogue. It contains my comments as well as interviews with the family. I apologize for not including an Appendix, but unfortunately it ruptured and had to be removed.
Let me start my story by describing the night before our first day of officially homeschooling. My memory is a bit blurry so wait a second while I find my glasses. Ah, that's better. Anyway, on that first night, I was so excited I couldn’t sleep. I rolled around imagining the wonderful experiences I would share with my children as we explored the world together.
My stomach tingled with the same excitement I feel when I am about to go over the first hill on a roller coaster. I ignored the fact I hate roller coasters and scream through the entire ride while clawing at my riding companion until I finally get on solid ground again. I don’t know when I finally fell asleep, but the last time I looked it was 4:30 in the morning….
Go directly to her site for the full version http://bedlam.ihen.org/
INTRODUCTION
Many thoughtful books on the subject of homeschooling have been published in recent years. Some are full of ideas about learning and take the reader into the depths of philosophical thought. Some are full of specific resources and advice about how to homeschool. This isn’t one of them.
Highly intelligent people wrote those books. I’m not one of them.
Let me give you some background. My husband John and I have two children, Melissa and Keith. I was a full-time mom from the time my first child was born. I didn’t want to miss a thing motherhood had to offer.
I wanted to be the one my children spit up on. I wanted to be the one to endure the whines and the screams. I wanted to be the one to clean up after they found the open box of cornstarch and maple syrup and thought the mixture would make a great skin lotion. But after about 6 years of this, life changed. My kids entered school.
It didn’t take long to realize I had a huge problem. I did not have enough stress in my life. So in October of 1991, when my daughter was in second grade and my son, first grade, I decided to homeschool. I saw how classrooms operated and felt confident I could do just as good a job of ignoring their individual needs.
Okay, my husband thinks I need to stop joking around, if only for a moment, and give at least some explanation of why I decided to do such an offbeat thing. He said some readers would actually want to know why our family thought homeschooling would be a good idea. For some reason, he still lives under the delusion that I might one day take his advice.
Okay, okay, readers genuinely interested in a more serious description of why I made this decision can consult the Epilogue. It contains my comments as well as interviews with the family. I apologize for not including an Appendix, but unfortunately it ruptured and had to be removed.
Let me start my story by describing the night before our first day of officially homeschooling. My memory is a bit blurry so wait a second while I find my glasses. Ah, that's better. Anyway, on that first night, I was so excited I couldn’t sleep. I rolled around imagining the wonderful experiences I would share with my children as we explored the world together.
My stomach tingled with the same excitement I feel when I am about to go over the first hill on a roller coaster. I ignored the fact I hate roller coasters and scream through the entire ride while clawing at my riding companion until I finally get on solid ground again. I don’t know when I finally fell asleep, but the last time I looked it was 4:30 in the morning….
Go directly to her site for the full version http://bedlam.ihen.org/
Bill opens classes, sports to home-schooled students
April 22, 2005, 10:51AM (Austin Chronicle)
Author says it's fair because their parents pay taxes
By APRIL CASTRO
Associated Press
RESOURCES
• Complete coverage: See more stories and resources on the 79th Texas Legislature from the Houston Chronicle.
AUSTIN - Home-schooled students would be able to participate in public school classes and sports of their choosing and the state would reimburse the district for the cost under a billbeing considered in the House.
The proposal, which would be optional for districts and students, would be limited to about 2,000 students statewide.
Rep. Brian McCall, a Plano Republican who authored the bill, said the measure would give home-schooled students access to classes that parents might not have the resources for, such as a chemistry lab.
"The home-school students are paying property taxes to fund public schools anyway," McCall said. "How can we discriminate? It's only the right thing to do."
Author says it's fair because their parents pay taxes
By APRIL CASTRO
Associated Press
RESOURCES
• Complete coverage: See more stories and resources on the 79th Texas Legislature from the Houston Chronicle.
AUSTIN - Home-schooled students would be able to participate in public school classes and sports of their choosing and the state would reimburse the district for the cost under a billbeing considered in the House.
The proposal, which would be optional for districts and students, would be limited to about 2,000 students statewide.
Rep. Brian McCall, a Plano Republican who authored the bill, said the measure would give home-schooled students access to classes that parents might not have the resources for, such as a chemistry lab.
"The home-school students are paying property taxes to fund public schools anyway," McCall said. "How can we discriminate? It's only the right thing to do."
Families and Educational Freedom: the case for home-schooling
by Julie Novak (Online Opinion - Australia)
What do American Presidents George Washington and Franklin Roosevelt, Nobel Prize winner Bertrand Russell, anthropologist Margaret Mead, and writer Agatha Christie have in common? These famous luminaries in their respective fields of endeavour were the beneficiaries of home-schooling through their childhood years.
The concept of home-schooling seems to evoke a range of negative stereotypes, including a negative picture of parents with either extremist religious beliefs, or with no real commitment to their children’s education, who lock their offspring away and place them at educational, social and perhaps even physical risk. However, as I will explain, not only are the home-schooling stereotypes unfounded, but this model of educational provision represents the ultimate in freedom and parental power in education, both qualities that are severely lacking, particularly in government school systems.
What do American Presidents George Washington and Franklin Roosevelt, Nobel Prize winner Bertrand Russell, anthropologist Margaret Mead, and writer Agatha Christie have in common? These famous luminaries in their respective fields of endeavour were the beneficiaries of home-schooling through their childhood years.
The concept of home-schooling seems to evoke a range of negative stereotypes, including a negative picture of parents with either extremist religious beliefs, or with no real commitment to their children’s education, who lock their offspring away and place them at educational, social and perhaps even physical risk. However, as I will explain, not only are the home-schooling stereotypes unfounded, but this model of educational provision represents the ultimate in freedom and parental power in education, both qualities that are severely lacking, particularly in government school systems.
One Nation Under "Your Belief System".... PC to the next level
'Fix' in pledge raises concern
Jeffco school's counselor alters phrase 'under God'
By Jennifer Miller, Rocky Mountain News
April 22, 2005
JEFFERSON COUNTY - Seventh-grader Bailey Pierce, hand pressed against her heart, was reciting the Pledge of Allegiance when the voice over the intercom said something that stopped her cold.
"One nation, under 'your belief system.' "
Jeffco school's counselor alters phrase 'under God'
By Jennifer Miller, Rocky Mountain News
April 22, 2005
JEFFERSON COUNTY - Seventh-grader Bailey Pierce, hand pressed against her heart, was reciting the Pledge of Allegiance when the voice over the intercom said something that stopped her cold.
"One nation, under 'your belief system.' "
Thursday, April 21, 2005
Homeschool Teenagers in Theater Performance Makes Headlines
46 cast in drama on WWII families
BY GRANT TSE
ENDICOTT -- The historical drama Homefront takes a look at five families in America, Germany, France and England during World War II, the era of Bob Hope, Judy Garland, Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill.
But the historical drama by Davis College history professor Gerald Franz is more than just a play. Its cast is made up of 46 homeschooled teenagers, who might not otherwise participate in a school theater performance.
BY GRANT TSE
ENDICOTT -- The historical drama Homefront takes a look at five families in America, Germany, France and England during World War II, the era of Bob Hope, Judy Garland, Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill.
But the historical drama by Davis College history professor Gerald Franz is more than just a play. Its cast is made up of 46 homeschooled teenagers, who might not otherwise participate in a school theater performance.
Barbara Curtis Rides to the Rescue... Again
Barbara Curtis, mother of twelve, who wisely homeschools when it suits
each child and their needs has published yet another book: The Mommy Manual - Planting Roots That Give Your Child Wings soon to be available May 1, but which can be ordered now from Amazon.com. Barbara's wit, humor and no-guilt-trip-here brand of communicating is refreshing yet insightful. Read her article about homeschooling: Coming Home to School
or visit Barbara's web site for encouragement.
each child and their needs has published yet another book: The Mommy Manual - Planting Roots That Give Your Child Wings soon to be available May 1, but which can be ordered now from Amazon.com. Barbara's wit, humor and no-guilt-trip-here brand of communicating is refreshing yet insightful. Read her article about homeschooling: Coming Home to School
or visit Barbara's web site for encouragement.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Two students earn national honors
(One of these National Merit Scholars is a homeschooler.)
Columbia students are named National Merit Scholars.
By STEPHANIE HOFFMANN
April 20, 2005
Two Columbia area high school seniors have been named finalists in the 50th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
Home-school student Carmen Pettus and Hickman High School student Suzanne Wetz are two of about 8,200 Merit Scholars that will be selected nationwide in the 2005 contest.
Columbia students are named National Merit Scholars.
By STEPHANIE HOFFMANN
April 20, 2005
Two Columbia area high school seniors have been named finalists in the 50th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
Home-school student Carmen Pettus and Hickman High School student Suzanne Wetz are two of about 8,200 Merit Scholars that will be selected nationwide in the 2005 contest.
Homeschool students write and produce "Life in a Pond"
April 20, 2005
Play peers into pond life
Homeschool students write and produce "Life in a Pond"
By Carol South
Herald contributing writer
Life as a rotifer became an overarching theme for Ashley Steele's studies this school year.
The tenth-grade homeschool student participated in a year-long effort to write and produce an original play about the creatures in a pond and the impact of humans on their environment. The resulting short play, entitled "Life in a Pond," debuted this weekend in two performances: Saturday afternoon at Horizon Books and Sunday afternoon at Border's. The six student actors will also present the play on Saturday at the Traverse Area District Library in honor of Earth Day celebrations. They will also bring to the production to area schools this spring.
Play peers into pond life
Homeschool students write and produce "Life in a Pond"
By Carol South
Herald contributing writer
Life as a rotifer became an overarching theme for Ashley Steele's studies this school year.
The tenth-grade homeschool student participated in a year-long effort to write and produce an original play about the creatures in a pond and the impact of humans on their environment. The resulting short play, entitled "Life in a Pond," debuted this weekend in two performances: Saturday afternoon at Horizon Books and Sunday afternoon at Border's. The six student actors will also present the play on Saturday at the Traverse Area District Library in honor of Earth Day celebrations. They will also bring to the production to area schools this spring.
Welcome to our new blog!
We will be using this page to post news items and other
information relevant to homeschooling and the homeschooling
community. Please feel free to post your comments and ideas about
what you'd like to see posted here. Jane R. Boswell, Editor
information relevant to homeschooling and the homeschooling
community. Please feel free to post your comments and ideas about
what you'd like to see posted here. Jane R. Boswell, Editor
Ten Signs That You Need to Find a Different Kind of Education for Your Child
by Jerry Mintz
Many parents do not realize that the education world has changed drastically since they were in school. Back in those days, schools were smaller, class sizes were smaller, dropout rates were lower, violence in school was almost unheard of, teachers were not terrified of showing affection to the children, or of teaching and discussing moral values. Even through rose-colored glasses, we know that school back then was no picnic, was far from perfect, but at least the teachers and usually the principal knew every student by name at a minimum, something which is not necessarily true today. Because our public school system has now considerably deteriorated, many parents, teachers, and individuals have taken it upon themselves to create public and private alternatives to that traditional system which is definitely failing. It is important for parents to know that they now have choices, alternatives to the neighborhood school. How do you know that it is time to look for another educational approach for your child? Here are some of the signs:
Does your child say he or she hates school? If so, something is probably wrong with the school because children are natural learners. When they're young you can hardly stop them from learning. If your children say they hate school, listen to them.
Many parents do not realize that the education world has changed drastically since they were in school. Back in those days, schools were smaller, class sizes were smaller, dropout rates were lower, violence in school was almost unheard of, teachers were not terrified of showing affection to the children, or of teaching and discussing moral values. Even through rose-colored glasses, we know that school back then was no picnic, was far from perfect, but at least the teachers and usually the principal knew every student by name at a minimum, something which is not necessarily true today. Because our public school system has now considerably deteriorated, many parents, teachers, and individuals have taken it upon themselves to create public and private alternatives to that traditional system which is definitely failing. It is important for parents to know that they now have choices, alternatives to the neighborhood school. How do you know that it is time to look for another educational approach for your child? Here are some of the signs:
Does your child say he or she hates school? If so, something is probably wrong with the school because children are natural learners. When they're young you can hardly stop them from learning. If your children say they hate school, listen to them.
Ten Good Reasons to Homeschool
by Greg Sherman, Ph.D.
My three children and I were standing in line at the grocery store the other day, and a woman behind us started conversing with my thirteen year-old daughter Grace. At some point in the conversation, I overheard the woman ask Grace what grade she was in and what school she attended. Grace responded innocently that she was homeschooled, and that she wasn’t exactly sure what grade she would be in if she went to school. The woman looked over Grace’s shoulder and directly into my eyes. She wrinkled her brow and asked me, very casually, with perhaps a hint of skepticism, "So, why do you homeschool? (Click on title to read entire article.)
My three children and I were standing in line at the grocery store the other day, and a woman behind us started conversing with my thirteen year-old daughter Grace. At some point in the conversation, I overheard the woman ask Grace what grade she was in and what school she attended. Grace responded innocently that she was homeschooled, and that she wasn’t exactly sure what grade she would be in if she went to school. The woman looked over Grace’s shoulder and directly into my eyes. She wrinkled her brow and asked me, very casually, with perhaps a hint of skepticism, "So, why do you homeschool? (Click on title to read entire article.)
Wait!
by Linda Schrock Taylor
April 5, 2005, LewRockwell.com
Parents, if you absolutely must enroll your children in school - any school, whether public or private - never rush into doing so! Early enrollment will neither help your child, nor imporve your chances of teaching your child the values that your family
believes to be integral to Life and living.(Click on title to read entire article.)
April 5, 2005, LewRockwell.com
Parents, if you absolutely must enroll your children in school - any school, whether public or private - never rush into doing so! Early enrollment will neither help your child, nor imporve your chances of teaching your child the values that your family
believes to be integral to Life and living.(Click on title to read entire article.)
Do-it-yourself school split
CMS parents, you don't need legislative authority to secede
PAUL CHESSER Charlotte Observer
Special to the Observer
RALEIGH - While proponents of a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools split felt disrespected after they were largely ignored in a House education committee meeting at the General Assembly last week, they are not stuck in the system they disapprove of.
Supporters of a bill that would break up the state's largest school system believe CMS is unwieldy and ineffective, and they want school leaders who will be more responsive to their needs. Many of them drove three hours to Raleigh for the hour-long committee hearing, but believed the breakup idea didn't receive sufficient consideration from state lawmakers.
In dramatic contrast, recently another group of North Carolina parents achieved a remarkable political victory in almost lightning-quick fashion. Weeks ago, as part of his budget recommendations, Gov. Mike Easley had proposed moving the state's Department of Non-Public Education from the Department of Administration's oversight to the Department of Public Instruction's. DNPE watches over the state's homeschoolers and other private education institutions.
The General Assembly began to consider the idea at about the same time homeschoolers learned about the proposal, which led to an overload of objections on the voicemails and e-mails of legislators. Homeschoolers and private school advocates in no way want to be under the authority of the state's public education bureaucracy.
PAUL CHESSER Charlotte Observer
Special to the Observer
RALEIGH - While proponents of a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools split felt disrespected after they were largely ignored in a House education committee meeting at the General Assembly last week, they are not stuck in the system they disapprove of.
Supporters of a bill that would break up the state's largest school system believe CMS is unwieldy and ineffective, and they want school leaders who will be more responsive to their needs. Many of them drove three hours to Raleigh for the hour-long committee hearing, but believed the breakup idea didn't receive sufficient consideration from state lawmakers.
In dramatic contrast, recently another group of North Carolina parents achieved a remarkable political victory in almost lightning-quick fashion. Weeks ago, as part of his budget recommendations, Gov. Mike Easley had proposed moving the state's Department of Non-Public Education from the Department of Administration's oversight to the Department of Public Instruction's. DNPE watches over the state's homeschoolers and other private education institutions.
The General Assembly began to consider the idea at about the same time homeschoolers learned about the proposal, which led to an overload of objections on the voicemails and e-mails of legislators. Homeschoolers and private school advocates in no way want to be under the authority of the state's public education bureaucracy.
Homeschoolers' Applications Up
By Natalie Inger email
Collegian Staff Writer
As the number of homeschooling families in the nation continues to rise, more homeschooled students are being admitted to Penn State than ever before, university admissions officials said.
Collegian Staff Writer
As the number of homeschooling families in the nation continues to rise, more homeschooled students are being admitted to Penn State than ever before, university admissions officials said.
Texans Homeschool for Religious Reasons...
Most Texan parents who home-school their children are reportedly doing so for moral and religious reasons.
Some 70 percent of parents who homeschool their children choose such an educational option for religious reasons, according to a report released by the Texas Home Educators (THE) to the McKinney Courier-Gazette. Sixty percent of the parents cited academics as a reason to homeschool their young, while 30 percent pointed towards the overall well-being of their children.
Some 70 percent of parents who homeschool their children choose such an educational option for religious reasons, according to a report released by the Texas Home Educators (THE) to the McKinney Courier-Gazette. Sixty percent of the parents cited academics as a reason to homeschool their young, while 30 percent pointed towards the overall well-being of their children.
Homeschooling Newsworthy
Check out our newest page: Homeschool Newsworthy for the past few days worth of interesting news articles about homeschooling and/or education. No more searching the web. Updated weekly.
New England Homeschool & Family Learning Conference
New England Homeschool & Family Learning Conference Updates
The updates for the 2005 New England Homeschool and Family Conference which is scheduled for July 15, 16, 2005 • Boxborough Woods Holiday Inn, Boxborough, MA • Favorite (and world-renowned) storyteller and entertainer Jim Weiss will be returning with new workshops and more presentations. The Family Resource Center will present their second annual Museum Education EXPO featuring dozens of museum education exhibits workshops for children and teens. Other speakers include National Home Education Legal Defense founder and attorney Deborah Stevenson, early learning specialist Dr. Susan Snyder, author Amelia Haper (Literary Lessons from the Lord of the Rings), organizational guru Cheryl Carter and her husband Derek, gifted educator Josh Shaine, government school critique and homeschool advocate Samuel Blumenfeld and many more. Please check the conference pages for this week's updated information. Conference Home Page
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
April 15 - 22 Newsletter
Some homeschool outside the home
Anna Kurth, Budgeteer News April 8, 2005 (Duluth, MN)
Robin Muench and her children Anya and Josef spend their mornings and early afternoons at home in a structured learning environment - but the afternoons are reserved for music lessons and field trips.
Read entire article: http://www.duluth.com/placed/index.php?sect_rank=1&story_id=197867
Factory-like schooling may soon be a thing of the past.
By Britton Manasco, reasononline.com, April, 2005
School days, I believe, are the unhappiest in the whole span of human existence. They are full of dull, unintelligible tasks, new and unpleasant ordinances, brutal violations of common sense and common decency. --H.L. Mencken
At 16, Paul Boone writes articles reviewing new computer games for Mac Home Journal and aspires to launch a game development company of his own. Such ambitions are not that uncommon in his hometown of San Jose, California, the heart of Silicon Valley. What is unusual is how easily he has been able to incorporate his interest in computers into his education--and why.
Paul, his sister Cristie, 17, and brother Curtis, 12, have been educated at home, by parents who are convinced that children learn best when they are free to explore areas of interest in an independent, self-directed way.
Read article: http://reason.com/9607/Fe.MANASCO.shtml
Homeschooling Facts
by Greg Beato, reasononline.com April 2005
http://www.reason.com/0504/fe.gb.facts.shtml
(Editor's Note) One more reason to homeschool...
More and More, Kids Say the Foulest Things
Anti-Swearing Efforts Falling on Deaf Ears
by Valerie Strauss, Washington Post, April 12, 2005
Read the article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A44779-2005Apr11.html
Homeschooling and Encouragement
Anna Kurth, Budgeteer News April 8, 2005 (Duluth, MN)
Robin Muench and her children Anya and Josef spend their mornings and early afternoons at home in a structured learning environment - but the afternoons are reserved for music lessons and field trips.
Read entire article: http://www.duluth.com/placed/index.php?sect_rank=1&story_id=197867
Factory-like schooling may soon be a thing of the past.
By Britton Manasco, reasononline.com, April, 2005
School days, I believe, are the unhappiest in the whole span of human existence. They are full of dull, unintelligible tasks, new and unpleasant ordinances, brutal violations of common sense and common decency. --H.L. Mencken
At 16, Paul Boone writes articles reviewing new computer games for Mac Home Journal and aspires to launch a game development company of his own. Such ambitions are not that uncommon in his hometown of San Jose, California, the heart of Silicon Valley. What is unusual is how easily he has been able to incorporate his interest in computers into his education--and why.
Paul, his sister Cristie, 17, and brother Curtis, 12, have been educated at home, by parents who are convinced that children learn best when they are free to explore areas of interest in an independent, self-directed way.
Read article: http://reason.com/9607/Fe.MANASCO.shtml
Homeschooling Facts
by Greg Beato, reasononline.com April 2005
http://www.reason.com/0504/fe.gb.facts.shtml
(Editor's Note) One more reason to homeschool...
More and More, Kids Say the Foulest Things
Anti-Swearing Efforts Falling on Deaf Ears
by Valerie Strauss, Washington Post, April 12, 2005
Read the article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A44779-2005Apr11.html
Homeschooling and Encouragement
When Can We Do This Again?
by Amanda Bennett
Looking to put some excitement back into your homeschool? Searching for a new idea, a fun adventure instead of the drudgery of textbooks? I want the children to WANT to learn, and I would like to enjoy the process, too! Picture this – sitting with your child, learning about lighthouses, and touring the lantern room of a lighthouse online as you learn together. As the child experiences the adventure, they begin to want to know more, to question, to ask, "When can we do this again?"
Show Me The Way: How We Learned To Homeschool
by Alison McKee
In 1980, following the birth of our son, Christian, I returned to work as a special education teacher. A friend, looking for the perfect kindergarten for her son, mentioned an article on homeschooling by John Holt, an author who had been on my college reading list. That article changed my life forever. For the next two decades - as our children, Christian and Georgina, schooled themselves at home - we lived what we came to call "unschooled lives."
Laying Foundations
by Lorraine Curry
I lay on the beach, gasping for breath. I was a body surfer and even Maui's huge winter storm waves couldn't keep me home! The exhilaration was worth the battering. In college, I wanted to skydive, but my father wouldn't grant permission-a friend's son had been killed when his parachute failed to open. Later, I was enticed by the opportunity to succeed in life insurance sales, and became the first female member of our company's President's Cabinet. I've welcomed most challenges, but succeeding at this task of raising children has been life's biggest challenge-and its greatest adventure!
Whatever Happened to Childhood?
by Mary Hood, Ph.D.
This past week we have once again been experiencing the all-star baseball season, which usually eats up a good part of our summer. This is one of the times that I have the most contact with public school parents, and I actually enjoy the experience. I’ve always believed you can become too narrow in your thinking if you always hang around with people that are exactly like you. Most of these parents are really nice people, but I find we have little in common, and struggle to find things to talk about.
Voices of Experience
Graduation: A Time of Dread or Celebration? Parental Transitions
by Jean Reed
Homeschooling is a way of life. I hear from many parents that they dread the time when their children will be gone and this lifestyle will disappear, too. Some parents fear they will no longer be needed, that there will never again be anything as meaningful in their lives. For some parents these thoughts create anxiety, for others panic, and some see this time as a doorway to the future offering new adventures in living and learning for themselves. I know how easy it is to get caught up in the daily routines and activities of homeschooling. As homeschooling parents we work very hard to help our children look ahead to their future. It is vitally important to remember that we too have a future. Through exploring what lies ahead for yourself, you become a model for your children of how to take control of a new part of your own life.
Bianca, You Animal, Shut Up!
from the prologue of John Taylor Gatto's book
The Underground History of American Education
Our problem in understanding forced schooling stems from an inconvenient fact: that the wrong it does from a human perspective is right from a systems perspective. You can see this in the case of six-year-old Bianca, who came to my attention because an assistant principal screamed at her in front of an assembly, "BIANCA, YOU ANIMAL, SHUT UP!" Like the wail of a banshee, this sang the school doom of Bianca. Even though her body continued to shuffle around, the voodoo had poisoned her.
Do I make too much of this simple act of putting a little girl in her place? It must happen thousands of times every day in schools all over. I’ve seen it many times, and if I were painfully honest I’d admit to doing it many times. Schools are supposed to teach kids their place. That’s why we have age-graded classes. In any case, it wasn’t your own little Janey or mine.
Read the book or purchase it online:
http://www.johntaylorgatto.com/underground/prologue.htm
Viewpoints
The Institutional Parent
by Douglas C. Minson
Public response to a new study that links aggression and varieties of misbehavior to day care has been conspicuous. The study, funded by a branch of the National Institutes of Health, found that children who spend a great deal of time in non-maternal child care are three times more likely to display aggressive behavioral problems than kids reared primarily by their mothers. Researchers maintain that the findings hold up even after factoring in variations in the quality of care, the sex of the child, and the socioeconomic status of the family.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
