In the midst of a prominent national conversation about parent choice and school choice, our family embarked on a unique educational journey with our two boys. It's a journey that has taken us through different educational settings, each offering its own set of challenges and rewards.
Our educational odyssey began with enrolling our boys in a small local private school. The school had a humble origin story, with the owner herself serving as the preschool teacher. Guided by the Montessori method, the school prioritized individualized education and laid a strong foundation for our boys. Looking back, it's clear that this foundation played a pivotal role in their academic excellence.
One aspect that set this school apart was its philosophy of not limiting a child's abilities. Our boys were given the freedom to excel in areas where their strengths lay, all while ensuring they received a well-rounded education. This approach nurtured their talents and encouraged them to reach their full potential.
As our boys progressed, it became evident that they were academically advanced. This prompted us to make a significant decision: skipping Cooper a grade ahead. It was a choice that came with its share of challenges but was made in the best interest of our child's development. However, when Case began showing a similar level of advancement, we faced another critical decision: homeschooling.
Homeschooling was a mix of both reward and challenge. It offered our children the freedom to excel in nearly every subject and allowed us to explore our community in depth. Joining a vibrant homeschool group was a turning point, resulting in the formation of lifelong relationships. Nevertheless, it also placed a significant educational burden on mothers like me who only want the best for their children.
Cooper's readiness for high school led to yet another crossroads. He expressed a desire to attend public high school, and, though we were cautious, we agreed. Sadly, the experience was fraught with disappointments and frustrations. We encountered issues such as nepotism, bullying, inappropriate adult behavior, a lack of communication, and the public school's strong emphasis on assimilation.
In 7th grade, Case made the decision to enroll in a local private Christian school, an experience that has, so far, been positive and aligned with our family's values. In response, we decided to pull Cooper from public school and return to homeschooling. We will share more about that journey in upcoming posts.
One question that often arises is how we afford these choices. The answer lies in the "Step Up for Students" program, a Florida School of Choice voucher program. This initiative empowers parents to choose between private schools, homeschooling, or accessing various educational services.
Our journey through the educational landscape has been far from ordinary, and it's a testament to the importance of school choice. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to receive an education that aligns with their unique needs and aspirations. Our story is a reminder that, with determination and support, parents can pave the way for their children's success in education, regardless of the path they choose. Stay tuned for more insights into our evolving educational adventure.
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