How many people are HOME SCHOOLED?

Question

Do you feel you missed out on anything by not being in public school? Do you feel you received a good education in order to get a job?

I am curious because I used to teach in the public school system.

Answer 1

I have been homeschooled since Kindergarten, and am now in 11th grade. I feel that I have not missed out on anything that public, private, or Christian schools offer. My parents knew the pros and cons of homeschooling when they started, and they have compensated where needed be. Being homeschooled allows my parents to keep a closer eye on me and regulate where I go and whom I'm with (more than they would have been able to if I had gone to school). I don't mind this at all, and actually appreciate it because of the way I've been brought up. I participate in a lot of activities with other homeschoolers and a few public schoolers, and have lots of friends.

As far as education goes, I believe that I have gotten some of the best. My parents chose my curriculum for me when I was younger, but now I go with them yearly to one or more homeschool conferences and choose my own. If something doesn't work out, or I (or my parents) feel that I'm just not learning from the current curriculum, we try something different. Also, being homeschooled means that I have more time to do something other than sit in a classroom. I can become involved in activites that prepare teens for their future careers.

Well, I could go on and on... but that's enough for now! ; )

Answer 2

Homeschooling numbers vary depending on who you ask. According tot he Home School Legal Defense Association website, ""There were an estimated 1,700,000 to 2,100,000 children (grades K-12) home educated during 2002-2003 in the United States. Homeschooling appears to still be the fastest-growing form of education." – Brian D. Ray, Ph.D., Facts on Homeschoooling *

There are a lot of them. I think that the biggest difference i see is that homsechool kids I know don't have a "get an education to get a job" attitude. It is more along the lines of really learning, and being life long learners. I also note that MANY of the homeschool kids I have been around are not preparing for a job...they are preparing for a business opportunity, or some other independent way of providng for their future.

My children are both in their teens. My daughter is 18 and graduated two years ago. She has been building a private music teacing business since then, and is doing quite well. She is also teaching part time at our local community college...all without feeling she had to get a good education in order to get a job.

My son is still figuring out what he wants to be when he grows up. I am thankful that he and my daugher had the opportunity to be exposed to so much more during their school years than a group of their peers. I think they are well prepared to grow and do what ever they wish to do.

Answer 3

I'm home schooled and sometimes I hate it while other times, I love it. I do feel that I've missed out on something though. The only social life I have is at church and some of my friends are leaving for a church closer to their home so I don't see very many people. If I ever do go to a school, it would be a christian because the public schools in my area stink!!
As far as my education is concerned, I think it's better at home because if you understand a concept that's being taught, you don't have to spend an hour on it because one stupid kid doesn't get it. While going to college would be a drastic switch, I don't it would be too hard.

Answer 4

My 11 year old daughter is "home schooled" but we may be a bit different from the norm in that we have hired a full time teacher for her, and have built a fully functioning classroom. We also travel extensively so she can "experience" learning (Philly, DC, Williamsburg to learn about our governments history. The Galapagos to learn about evolution, etc.) as opposed to just reading about things in her books. After just one year of focused one on one learning her standardized test scores are literally off the charts. However, there is certainly a downside. While we are focused on providing social activities for her, she is still missing out on much of the peer socialization that goes on in schools.

Answer 5

I'm homeschooled... this is my first year (i'm a junior) And I love it.. I don't miss my highschool.. I see my friends out of school anyways so it's not like I never get to see them. The only thing i'm a little sad about is i'm not going to be able to go to my prom but it seems like proms are overrated these days... it's not that big of a deal. I'm going to be able to graduate in just about a year because i'm ahead this year so i'm pretty excited about that. I love homeschooling and i'm never going back to public school!

Answer 6

i am being home schooled!