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  • Essay / Choosing to Homeschool - 1737

    One of the most difficult decisions any parent will face is deciding where to send their children to receive an education. When most people think of education, they usually think of public schools...when governments require that children attend schools in which qualified teachers are responsible for educating children using an approved curriculum. Over the years, this idea has slowly evolved and a significant number of parents have come to believe that it is far better for their children to be educated at home by the people who know them and their needs best. Although most people believe that a public education is better, many statistics and facts show that homeschooling is beneficial in other ways. It is estimated that parents are now taking control of their children's lives and education by teaching more than two million children at home, rather than in public or even private schools! This essay will examine the issue of homeschooling and discuss the best option for a specific child. When making the decision to homeschool a child, there are a number of factors to consider. Some of the benefits I found in thinking about this choice for my children was the individual attention I could give them as a parent. This is in stark contrast to the 30:1 student/teacher ratio in our public school system. By choosing to homeschool, I also found that I had more freedom to choose my child's curriculum. As a parent, I am required to teach: “A core academic educational program that includes, but is not limited to, reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science. » Georgia Code Ann. 20-2-690(c)(4). Thanks to this, I am able to include other subjects such as the New Testament Bible, the introduction...... middle of article...... of the two worlds - a choice which, in my opinion, confirms that homeschooling is not universally better - nor are public schools universally bad. I know homeschooling isn't for everyone. However, it is a viable educational option that all parents should consider. I consider it a privilege to be able to educate my children, while strengthening our relationship. Works CitedAthens Banner-Herald. "Georgia school voucher bill dies mid-session." Associated Press. Athens, March 12, 2009. Franklin, Gary. “Georgia School Voucher.” Associated Press. Atlanta: WXIA 11ALIVE NEWS, February 19, 2010. Georgia Department of Education. GaDoE Home Schools. 2010. April 20, 2011. Ray, Dr. Brian. Their own strengths: Homeschoolers across America. Salem, OR: National Home Education Research Institute, 1997.