So, you’ve probably heard.
I’m homeschooling again. Sort of. I mean, my girls are in 11th grade and taking classes at the local community college (dual enrollment) along with taking a few classes at home, so technically we are doing an independent study year.
And Y’ALL. It’s AMAZING.
First off, let me explain why we decided to come back home after spending several years at an awesome classical school. I think part of the journey for us has always been really paying attention to what the girls need. The only reason I ever decided to homeschool initially is because one of my daughter’s needed one on one attention. After being home for a few years with me, she began to THRIVE and eventually wanted to try “real school” again.
So we did. We went to “real school” for 7th-10th grades and it was wonderful. They made some great friends, they learned so much, they were challenged in ways I could never have challenged them at home and it was a great decision for the time.
But these two sweetie pies are mature for their age and were kind of “done” with high school. They were having hours of homework every night and not having any down time. Between a heavy load at school and dancing 2-4 hours at night, they were exhausted. And my Elea complained that she had no time to read. (She’s her mother’s daughter!)
And listen, I feel like after you homeschool for any amount of time and have your kids home with you, it’s hard to let them go. It’s hard to give up all that time with them and we were THRILLED when they mentioned they might want to finish high school with independent study.
So, they take 3 classes at Walter State Community College (10 minutes from our house!). They have Spanish, English Composition, and US History there. Then, they do Algebra 2 (teaching textbooks, so mama doesn’t have to try to relearn Algebra!) and Chemistry (Apologia) and then later this semester, we’re adding Dave’s Ramsey’s Financial Peace course. And we are all LOVING IT!!! The best part is having them around so much!
The girls are so much more relaxed and happy and we see each other throughout the day all day. I can’t even tell you how much I love having them around during the day again. It’s been such a gift.
And given the fact that I know how fast this all happens, I’m so glad that they get to spend their last two years at home like this. It’s really a WIN WIN.
They were telling me last night how prepared they feel for their college classes. They are both very self motivated so I don’t have to worry about them doing their work and assignments. And college classes have been VERY eye opening. Their history professor told them the first day not to come in hung over or stoned. YES, HE DID. So, that led to some interesting conversations but overall, they love their classes and are enjoying the little bit of freedom it gives them! They were ready for that and honestly I think it’s made them even more mature and responsible.
I am so glad they wanted to try this. It’s been a huge success so far!!
Do you veteran homeschoolers have any advice for homeschooling high school?
I feel like a newbie again!!
