I have no one to blame but myself. I requested questions from my readers repeatedly, and then I got a really tough question that was brought on by a previous post, You Call that Homeschooling Part two It is below (in parts).
I was a bit puzzled by your comment about homeschooling being public schools online answer to keeping kids in school. I just enrolled my son in a virtual academy, and feel great about that decision. I did this because he does not fit in the square box. I do, however, like the idea that he will still need to be accountable for his achievement.
Yes, I said this, but it was not meant as a slam or insult to anyone who homeschools using virtual schools. It was more an observation of public schools reaction to homeschoolers. I believe that while virtual academies can over time whittle away at homeschooling freedom that it is also a step in the right direction for public schools. The fact that public schools are competing with homeschoolers means to me that they are working to make public education more tailored to children who need it.
I am both excited and nervous about what we are about to do, and wonder if we will be seen as the enemy by BOTH brick-and-mortar families and the homeschool community.
I want so much to tell you that everyone will embrace you in your homeschooling choice, but it is just not true. No matter what choice you use to homeschool, there will always be someone who seems a bit dismissive because it does not fit his or her idea of homeschooling. Brick and mortar families may also be resentful that your kids are getting services that they themselves don’t feel you should get. No matter how you choose to homeschool, there will always be a little resistance. But as a parent you have to know that you know that you are making the choice that is right for your child.
I have noted in several blogs here that there should be an atmosphere of tolerance, both for those who put their children on a bus as well as for those who choose to homeschool. I believe that was the meaning of your blog, and if I mis-read that one statement, my apologies. I just wonder what reception I will receive if I join a homeschool group while using a virtual academy…will I be perceived as undermining all that for which homeschool stands?
The good news is that I have noticed that few, if any, homeschoolers have introduced themselves by saying hi, my name is Andrea and we use Masters Academy to Homeschool. Our homeschool curriculum of choice almost never comes up, unless of course I go to a meeting to discuss curriculum. I tend to avoid these meetings as people can get pretty passionate about curriculum. Even if your choice of curriculum comes up, my guess is the worst that would happen is that people start dropping hints on curriculum choices. (Annoying!) In the end, I think you will find about 50% of homeschooling groups to be completely open and welcoming to you. Look for inclusive groups that are not strictly faith or approach based.