Well I will put the cat among the pigeons.
I have home educated our two younger children at home for quite some time.
I emphasise NOW, that even tho I was a JW, that was never the reason for taking them out of school... I feel that excuse is like a lame duck. (The ones that I met, were pathetic and embarrassing to say the least)
I was unimpressed with the education that our children were receiving (both are very bright, intelligent people). I worked voluntarily at the school, and was totally disallusioned with the whole education system.
18 months later I put them back in to school, and both did very well......... in fact far beyond what was expected on both age groups!!
Secondary school, and again, totally unimpressed, we therefore gave the children a choice, stay in school or home educate, both opted for home schooling, and both are doing brilliantly.
14 & 15 yrs old, drama school, computer, great social life (with school children, who are envious yeah right) both children are focused on future careers, know exactly what life is about (heck being a JW and the opposition since leaving has certainly been a social lesson).
So all I can say is, everyone has an opinion, and entitled to it. All I know is that it has worked for us, and in the end that is all that matters!!!!!!!!!!
So send on the guns.
Note : one of our children was rated as 'special needs' needed one to one, concentration etc... hhhmmm... sorted that one out, he is so clever school bored him, so he became the clown of the class... and the teachers were not bothered.
I can understand the need for social lessons, but our children can certainly hold a conversation and have a laugh with the best of us. both have strong opinions, and can hold a room. but are still children, enjoying growing up, and not having to be some young upstart having to impress the rest of the class to gain social standing be it gangs or whatever else is required in school these days.
College now beckons... adulthood looms, but both are more than capable of coping with the big bad world as both Chris and I have made damned sure that the world holds no secrets to them.....our two older sons have certainly made sure of this.... so yes home schooling works if for the correct reasons........... but not religious NO WAY...........
See ya
Cath (Mrs Nightwarrior)