Homeschooling in MO - FAQ

There are many myths and concerns regarding homeschooling. Why do the parents feel the need to keep the child home to learn instead of sending them to a public school (or even a private school), For me the answer was simple. I work within a public school district. I know my child and her learning abilities. She is not the type of child who can sit in a classroom setting with 20-30 other children and not be distracted or bored with the subject material.

Why I Chose To Homeschool
Some children excel in such a setting. I am a product of the public school system and I was an honor roll student my entire school career, finally graduating with honors from university. My daughter is not me and I realized that before serious damage was done to her learning process. She was first online schooled and then transitioned into strictly homeschooled.

Having a strong educational background, I set up her homeschool just like a regular school. She has set hours that she is "in school", she has set lesson plans and she does have tests that are put in her portfolio. Tests are not required in the state of Missouri, but I felt it was important to add tests to her lesson plans because when she gets to college level, she will indeed have tests and papers to write and a set schedule. This is just preparing her for life beyond homeschooling.

How I Homeschool
She is currently in the 6th grade, she has set quarters that are 9 weeks, 4 quarters in a "school year". She gets 1 week off school between quarters and then she gets 2 weeks off between grade levels. If there is a concept that she struggles with, we adjust the lesson plans so we can spend more time on that concept. If there is a concept that she picks up right away and she does not need the extra practice we adjust the lesson plans and move forward rather than bore her with more practice.

All lesson plans, gradebooks, hour logs and tests go into a grade level specific binder. Any other work that showcases what she has learned is also included. I do grade her work and assign a grade. This prepares her for the time when she enters college and has a professor grading her work. She has a report card at the end of each quarter, a semester grade and a final grade.

Homeschooling should be exciting and fun for you and your child or children. Exploring your community and learning things together is very rewarding. Remember, though, that these are the formative years and the study/learning habits that are instilled now will be difficult to change later when the child enters high school and college. Some structure in the learning process is needed for them to be able to succeed when their homeschooling days are done.

FAQs
I have taken advice from so many homeschooling parents. There is one mom who really takes the time to talk with you and give you the basics. I recommend that you visit her blog where she has posted some frequently asked questions about homeschooling in Missouri. Sara Schmidt is an inspiration and is a very talented writer. Check out what she has to say about homeschooling, I think you will then be able to make an informed decision.

If you are unsure or have any questions about homeschooling your child or trying to find activities/homeschool groups in your area, email me at themickiholley@gmail.com. I will be happy to help you find some resources to get you started.