I've read every homeschooling book at my library – and it's a good library so there are a lot of them! I've learned a lot. But there is one thing the books do not tell you how to do – stop homeschooling. How do you quit?
Punkin has been accepted at an amazing local charter school. She will start 4th grade in the fall. We obviously chose to pursue this path; and we have some valid reasons for thinking this may be the best path for her and our family. However, I have to admit that I didn't really think she would get a spot. There was a less than 1 percent chance, and admittance is determined by a lottery system, so the new students are determined purely by chance.
I'm scared. I'm scared about the things she will learn the hard way. I'm scared the teachers won't like her. I'm scared the other kids won't like her. I'm scared she won't like the other kids. I'm scared that she will be asked to be someone other than the free-spirited, creative girl that she is. I'm scared that what I have taught her will not be enough.
My dad was teasing me a little about going through the kindergarten mom anxiety with a 4th grader. And I definitely am. But, it is not just letting her go for the day. It's also letting go of complete responsibility of her education. Honestly, I'm having a hard time.
However, the chance was so slim and I prayed so much, I do believe that God opened this door for her. It is the right one for all of us. As scared as I am, I'm also super excited for her. I'm excited about the things she will learn. I'm excited that she has the opportunity to continue her education in a great place. I'm excited about the new friends she will make. I'm excited to see how she will grow.
8 comments:
Wow, that is big news! I think I'll find myself thinking the exact same things one day...whether it's in a couple of years or later on down the road. . You've done an awesome job with homeschooling and giving her a foundation to take off at this charter school. I hope she loves it!
Are you still going to homeschool Little Man?
As part of the human race it always seems difficult for us to deal with change.....but, as Christians when we have prayed and sought His will and the doors swing wide open, as they certainly have in your daughters case, then we know we can walk through them safe in His care. Growth and new challenges are not always easy, but they are required. All four of you will do fine.
That is a big change! I am proud of you for praying about it, seeking His will and then letting go and following it. I bet she will love it and make tons of new friends. You have given her a wonderful foundation and she will thrive from it-whether it be next year or in the future. I was homeschooled until the fourth grade myself and was grade levels ahead of everyone. She will do just fine :)
(((hugs)))
The Lord has opened the doors, so the Lord will provide for Punkin. It won't always be an easy road, but neither is homeschooling. ;) Now, have fun and enjoy the rest of the year with her home. **grin**
I kind of know what you're going through. It was tough for me to let JS go to kindergarten, and honestly I still get scared. But our decision was the best one for him. For now.
You are NOT letting go of complete responsibility for her education. I don't mean to diminish your fear and concern, but you, and you alone, are still responsible for her education. You're responsible for telling her what is true and right and good and pure. And you're responsible for teaching her how to get along with others and how to deal with kids who don't like her, etc. That's still your responsibility. You aren't giving it up - the parameters are merely changing. And you are still responsible for making sure she is challenged in her education and realizes that an "education" is far more than English (apologies to your mom), math, science, and social studies.
If she has a SPECK in her, she'll be fine, and you will be too. Just remember - the squeaky wheel gets the grease and the mom who brings cookies, brownies, and support for the teacher wins every time!
Funny how you are facing this new phase and I am considering entering the world of homeschooling! (Still praying and seeking...but truly feel it is just a matter of time.) A good friend told me last week, do it for a year and if it doesn't work out you can always go back. The same is true in reverse!
Well, you've lead me through homeschooling with Weaver and I know you'll lead me through this phase if and when it happens to our family!
I've known your heart and I know this isn't a decision you've entered into lightly! I'm sure there will be some bumps in the road - but they will be learning experiences for each of you.
You've done a great job raising her and I'm sure she'll shine!!
And more blogging time isn't bad! ;)
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