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Are You Ready to Homeschool?
Leaving the System to Create Your Own
By Tara Swords
"If they didn't," says Elizabeth Bernard, "the schools wouldn't exist."
For those who decide to take up the task of educating their children, there is a vast and growing network of support. The Internet is a resource-rich place for home schoolers, with online curricula and advice. Often, home-schooled kids can take side classes at local junior colleges.
In the meantime, Virginia is busy learning about what it will take to get into medical school if she decides to become a psychiatrist. And after an audition, she recently was accepted into a professional performing arts program at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. Virginia spends four hours there every afternoon studying vocal music, and the rest of the day in self-directed unschooling. Mom Elizabeth says whatever Virginia decides to become psychiatrist, singer or otherwise it's not college that's paramount in the Bernard household.
"I would like for her to go to college," she says. "But the most important thing is that she has motivation to do something. Since I have pulled her out of school I have seen a desire to learn that has not existed since she's been 8 or 9 years old."
To learn about your state's laws regarding home schooling, visit the Web site of the Home School Legal Defense Association.
For more information on getting involved in the Parent Teacher Association at your child's school, visit the National PTA home page.


