Homeschooling is Full of Options

Many people who choose to homeschool do so because they have lost faith in the public school system, some homeschool for religious reasons, and others do it to help children who have fallen behind or to challenge those who are academically advanced. Whatever the reason, the choice to homeschool can often leave parents wondering, " Can I do this?" or " Do I want to do this?" and even, "Do I have to teach everything?" The short answer is that homeschoolers now have many options to choose from.

Public school at home is one option that is becoming increasingly popular. The Georgia Cyber Academy has been up and running for several years now and offers online learning as a public charter school. Curriculum is provided, and teachers are in their home offices holding lessons online and grading portfolios. Georgia Connections Academy was just approved this year and is a similar virtual school. Curriculum is provided through Connections, and teachers teach from an office near Suwanee, on Meadow Church Road in Duluth. Parents are labeled as Learning Coaches, but teachers are available for help and resources. As public schools, students do have to take the state mandated tests such as the CRCT. For those not wanting to pick curriculum and needing the support, a virtual school is an option.

Hybrid schools are also popular among homeschoolers. Those that choose this option are still labeled as homeschoolers, not public schoolers at home like virtual students. Hybrid schools, also known as University Model schools, meet two to three days a week and depend on the parents to work with the children the remaining days. Some local hybrid schools include Heritage Academy in Flowery Branch and Fideles Christian School in Cumming.

With so many options available for schooling, it is just a matter of choosing what is right for your children and family. Alternatives to traditional homeschooling can be a great choice for many.