Homeschooling has been over for a few months. Dex unexpectedly got a spot at the only middle school he was on the waiting list the day after school started. It was a whiplash event to un-enroll him from the online charter we were all set up to try, to enrolling him, getting school supplies, and sending him off to school in less than 48 hours. It was exciting, yet heartbreaking to see him so nervous to go. He really wanted to go to middle school, but was tearful at the prospect of walking into a school full of kids he didn't know. He was thrust into an experience he wasn't prepared for; a locker, books, finding classrooms while navigating unfamiliar hallways. It was 180 degrees from the quiet, self-pacing of homeschooling.
He came home after the first day with the biggest smile. He was excited to go back. He even said he liked it better than homeschooling. Fast forward half a year and he's excelling with straight A's. It's been a very engaging experience for him that has supplied him with a lot of friends, as well as the confidence that he's doing well academically. I'm relieved that the school is rigorous and creative at the same time. He's even able to pursue his love of theater.
The only downside is the piles of homework. He's constantly anxious about having the time to do his homework. It's a tough balance to have after-school activities, and complete the weekly load of homework. I don't think having loads of homework teaches kids anything other than that their personal time isn't theirs. The amount of homework given for the week, is more than what I would assign for a day of homeschool. That's like having a kid for 6 days a week smushed into 5 long days. It really is a concern.
Missy B doesn't have much homework. Her school takes a much lighter approach with 3 small assignments. I like that so much better because it gives her time to have activities and classes for what she is interested in. She is also doing very well at school, but they don't give letter grades (so SF).
We are contemplating switching her to her brother's school, so we can have just one pick-up / drop-off; one holiday schedule; one school to donate to; and so she can dive into her passion for the visual arts. It would be a lot less hassle than what we are enduring this year with the weekday 2 hour / 2 school drop off and pickup commute. Three months ago she was all in for switching, but now, she's resistant because she'll miss her best friend. We have a month to decide.
