We’ve been reporting to the school district for several years now and everything has always gone just fine. And I’m happy to say that this year is no different. We received our letter with pre-approval in the mail today and I was delighted to find that in addition to the usual information about times for the school board vote and details on next years submissions, she included a note of praise for the work we submitted.
Here is an excerpt:
“I must say, I was very impressed with the work samples that you shared. It looks like Iain had a very busy, educationally enriching year. I truly enjoyed reading the written work you submitted and reviewing the other documents. Your plans for next year are also very comprehensive.“
It went on to talk about the thoroughness of our plans for Elijah and how she was happy to recommend the approval of both applications.
You know, as a home schooling parent, I find that it’s very easy to feel like you are behind and there is always the underlying belief that you should be doing more, as well as the fear that one or two people can’t fulfill a child’s (or several children’s!) educational needs. I think we all have those moments of doubt, and sometimes dismay! On a personal note, this was of course a year full of transition for us. It’s the first year that I’ve been reporting for 2 children, we added a new baby half-way through the “school year”, and then there has been on-going work on the house and just the regular challenges of everyday living with four children and minimal amenities. I’ve been quite hard on myself in judging our progress this year, which is why I’m really delighted to find that we’ve not only met, but exceeded the expectations of our local school system. I’m also tickled that Iain’s efforts were well received and I’m filled, near to bursting, with Mother-Pride for him. And that is why I felt a need to share all of these little thoughts and comments here.
And now, back to our regular posting…
How wonderful!
As a homeschooling parent myself, I know how you feel-each year I have a little anxiety over submitting our work. Also, with doing a waldorf-inspired curriculum I worry they won't think we are doing "enough" in the younger years. So far, so good, though!
This next year will be my first to home school two- my 8 year old and my 5 year old! I am so excited.
I have loved your blog, Melody- it has been a source of inspiration and ideas for me with my own family. I have a blog as well, but mine is for family and friends to follow our life- I'd be happy to share it- though not publically just yet.
I'm so glad that the superintendent was so reassuring! I can't even imagine having to do all that every year. We just have to fill out a form and send it to the state. No portfolios and no testing. I'd say you weathered the last year well!
Congratulations!! you don't need a school district to confirm that you are indeed an incredible homeschooling mama (but i'm so glad they gave a resounding thumbs up to your work!). in Oregon, we have so few requirements, i forget that it isn't like that for everyone.
this had been our first year "officially" homeschooling, and we had a baby, too, and it has been full of ups and downs, but reading other mamas journeys (like yours!) has helped me gain a lot of perspective. Thanks so much and congrats again!
Wow, I can't imagine having to apply for approval from a third party for homeschooling. It sounds stressful, even though you clearly are doing a wonderful job. Here in OR, we just have to let the district know we are planning to homeschool, and then have the SAT administered ever few years. But the state doesn't collect the tests, though legally they can. Just the parents see the score, and that's it. You can teach whatever you feel like teaching, or not. I'm glad your pre-re-view went well, and I will take some time today to be extra grateful for the freedom of education here at home!
It is so nice to get that confirmation. Yeah for you. That is quite a process. When I homeschooled my older three all we had to do was Standardized testing at the end of the year.
That is a great feeling isn't it?
Congrats to *all* of you – I know the work that goes into the earning of such praise, and I am sincerely delighted for all of you!
Hurrah!
That is wonderful. I know so many homeschooling families who worry about this very same thing. I think it's human nature to be concerned about such a thing and though no one really needs the validation if in their heart and mind they know they are doing a good job…..sometimes it's nice to have it anyways. =)
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Melanie- I would love to see your blog sometime, if you are willing to share it. You could email me at Melody82201@yahoo.com and we could talk privately.
nytesong- yes, that's exactly it. There is also the fact that while I am certain that I am doing the right thing for my children right now, I sometimes wonder how that will fit in in the greater scheme of things; i.e. the outside world. It's nice to know that they are on par with their peers. I don't need them to be at the same level, but I suspect that life will be easier for them if they are.
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Aw, that's so sweet, she's got blond looking hair now! and I think Galen's nose? What a precious photo of her sleeping. What a wonderful, cozy blog (and life) you have.