ON MY MIND

It has been on my mind for quite some time, but now that we're "down to the wire" so to speak, its time for decision making.  Yes, it is Kindergarten registration time.

Options?  Public School.  Private Christian School.  Homeschool. 

While this decision may be easy for some of you, let me assure you, it is nowhere near easy for us.  I personally have pretty much done it all--I attended public elementary and high school, I was homeschooled for "middle school" with a Christian curriculum, I attended a private university, and taught at a Christian school..I also had different teaching experiences in various urban and suburban schools while in college.

I think at this point, we've eliminated public school--though it would be the "easiest" route for us to go.  Transportation provided, close enough to home, we already pay taxes..etc.  But easiest is not always best. (side note, if Michael does need more help with speech by the end of the year--public schools have the most resources available and he may end up there for that reason).  I have nothing "against" public schools in general, by the way.

That brings us to our next option.  Christian school.  In our area, there is no local Christian school.  The school I used to teach at does not provide busing.  The other one we would consider, has busing but they may not come out as far as our area.  And there is no way I could in good conscience put my children on a bus for 3 hours a day to go to yet a different school.  Plus, there is a good chunk of change that needs to be considered with private education.  At this point in time, that is not even a possibility we can entertain.  Also, while Christian school is preferrable over public school, it needs to be said that EVERY school has its issues and its group of kids--we all know the ones.  No institution of education is without its drawbacks and flaws.

Finally, homeschooling.  I must say that I never really thought I would even be entertaining the thought.  But here we are.  Entertaining and even leaning towards homeschooling.  Think about it, having your children gone 8 hours a day, 5 days a week for 13 years!!  That is a significant amount of time!!  I also have a degree that is pretty much not being used at the present time. : /
Homeschooling is very family oriented, the kids won't be exposed (prematurely) to things that they may be exposed to in a traditional school setting, it is very flexible.  They will get individual attention and life skills.  There are so many resources and groups/co-ops available nowadays to homeschoolers and studies show that homeschoolers are generally ahead of the game.

That said, I personally know of several "homeschool horror stories."  Kids who are socially, emotionally, educationally crippled by their homeschool experience.  I don't think that is too strong of a statement to make.  Also, imagine having the kids 24/7...for as long as you can imagine.  No breaks.  Hmm...

To counter that--it is a huge responsibility and a lot of work--but then it IS my responsibility and my work.  God gave us these children to raise--not for the teachers down the street to raise--and we are ultimately responsible for their well-being and education.  Thats a tough one to argue against.  ;)

I could go on and on about this topic..but I won't.  For now.  Instead, I'd like your opinions.

We have not made any final decisions yet..so I would like your feedback.  What do you think?  Arguments for or against any or all forms of education??  Personal experiences??