The transition from homeschooling to public school can be a daunting experience for children in the state of Georgia. There are a lot of new rules, people, and regulations to learn, and the child can feel overwhelmed by all the changes. To help Georgia students and their parents navigate this transition, this article answers 15 popular questions about re-adjusting to public school after homeschool.
1. Do I Need a School Transcript for Public School?
Yes, students applying for public school will need a school transcript for the admissions process. If the student is a homeschooler, the parent will need to provide the transcripts from their homeschool curriculum.
Homeschoolers must also provide an attendance record showing the hours they have spent within the school year studying and learning. These records are used by the public school to assess a student’s knowledge of state standards and educational goals.
2. What is the Difference Between Public School and Homeschool?
Public school is a learning environment where students attend a regulated and structured academic program at a registered public or private school. This type of school follows a specified curriculum and is overseen by certified teachers and administrators.
In contrast, homeschool is an education program that parents or guardians can provide to their children in order to provide a different learning environment than the traditional school system. Home school curriculum is managed by the parent and typically follows a different set of educational goals and standards than public school.
3. How Can I Prepare For Public School?
The best way for a student to prepare for the transition to public school is to become familiar with the school’s policies and expectations. Start by obtaining the appropriate documentation for admission, like a transcript and records of homeschool hours. Once the student has arrived at their new school, they should attempt to connect with existing students and teachers as soon as possible.
This will help the student become accustomed to the new environment, while also giving them friendly faces to turn to if they ever feel overwhelmed or confused. It’s also important to ask questions and get the most out of any available resources.
4. How Do I Handle the Stress of Public School?
The transition to public school can be very stressful for both students and parents. It’s important to identify stressors early on and take steps to relieve that stress.
Finding outlets like physical exercise, creative hobbies, or social activities can help the student cope with any anxieties they may have. It’s also important to set goals and rewards to motivate the student and set boundaries on activities that could be overly stressful. Lastly, having access to support from the school or family can help manage stress in the long-term.
5. What Are the Differences Between the Homeschool Curriculum and Public School Curriculum?
The differences between the two curriculums depend on the state, school district, and chosen curriculum. Generally, the curriculum in public school follows the state-mandated standards and educational goals, while homeschools can choose different curriculums and course of study to follow. Some examples of the differences may include the topics covered, books used, the amount of homework assigned, and the style of teaching used.
It’s important to think ahead and ensure the student will be able to transition to their new school’s curriculum in a seamless manner.
6. Do I Have to Attend School Every Day?
Yes, attending school every day is mandatory in both public schools and homeschools. Students who are re-entering public school after homeschooling will need to be aware of their attendance policy and the consequences for being absent.
Typically absence policies will include a limit to the number of excused, unexcused, and unexcused absences in one semester. Schools also often require doctors notes and parental notifications for absences.
7. How Do I Make Friends and Connect With My Classmates?
When transitioning to public school, the following strategies can help a student make new friends. Firstly, seek out common ground with other students and build on those connections. Additionally, ask to be a part of group activities, like sports or chess clubs, to get to know other students in the same interests and activities.
If a student is feeling shy or anxious, they also have the option to join a local outreach or volunteer program. This is a great way to meet new people, help in the community and gain confidence.
8. What Are Some Strategies for Adjusting to a New School Schedule?
Adjusting to a new school schedule requires some foresight and preparation. To help a student adjust, the best strategy is to attend classes, study, and complete all assignments on time.
Students who are just starting public school should also make sure to attend all orientation sessions and other activities, as this will give them a better idea of the expectations and processes within the school. Lastly, setting a routine and sticking to it can be very beneficial in terms of organizing and goal-setting.
9. Are There Different Rules in Public School?
Yes, public school has different rules to adhere to. Rules can include anything from dress codes to the student’s time management and allowed activities.
These rules are set by the school and enforced by teachers and administration. Students should always be aware of their school’s policy, as these rules will help them transition better and keep them safe until they are used to the new environment.
10. What Can I Do To Make School Easier?
There are many things students can do to make the transition to public school easier. One of the most important is to create a study plan.
Having a set plan for studying, homework and tests can help keep the student on track and organized. Additionally, attending any available study sessions or tutoring can help the student stay up to date with the new curriculum and adjust to the different teaching style. Lastly, asking for help when needed can go a long way in struggling subjects.
11. How Do I Study For Public School Tests?
The best way to study for public school tests is to create a studying schedule and stick to it. It helps to have a routine where you review the material one to two nights a week.
Additionally, make sure to always review the notes taken in class and ask questions when needed. It can also be valuable to go over the material with a family member, as they can help you identify concepts you may need to review. Lastly, practice tests can help you identify areas where you may need improvement.
12. What Are the Typical Public School Classes?
Public school classes vary by grade level and school district. However, generally, students will attend classes in math, reading, writing, social studies, science, physical education, and the arts.
Advanced students may also have the opportunity to take on specialized classes such as foreign languages, computer science, and other electives. Additionally, most public schools offer extracurricular activities like sports, clubs, and music classes.
13. How Do I Transition From Homeschool to Public School?
To make the transition from homeschool to public school as smooth and painless as possible, it helps to have a plan in place. Before enrolling in a public school, first, make sure the student understands and is comfortable with the school’s policy and expectations.
Then, seek out opportunities to interact with other public school students like joining a club or attending weekend activities. Lastly, show up to classes and events early, be prepared, and listen to instructions and advice given by teachers.
14. How Should I Deal With Bullying in Public School?
Bullying is a rampant issue in many public school settings, and it’s important to know how to handle it. If a student is being bullied, the best thing to do is to report it immediately to a teacher or school administrator.
It’s also important to make sure there are other adults that can be trusted if the student does not feel comfortable talking to the school about their issues. Lastly, joining a club or engaging in other after school activities can help students find friends who accept and support them.
15. What’s the Best Way to Stay Focused in Public School?
The best way to stay focused in public school is to be organized and make sure you’re prepared in advance. Establish a study routine and allot blocks of time for each class and activity. It also helps to take care of yourself and make time for things you enjoy.
Lastly, positive reinforcement in the form of rewarded goals can help you stay on track and motivated. ConclusionFamilies in the state of Georgia who are considering sending their child to public school after being homeschooled should find the answers to these 15 questions helpful as they navigate this transition.
Being well-prepared and equipped with the right information can help a student make the most of their public school experience and make the transition smoother.