Making the transition from homeschool to public school can be daunting and complicated for parents and their children. There are many factors to take into account, including the child’s age, the school district, and their education goals.
To best help families navigate this journey, here are 15 commonly asked questions and their answers.
1. What Age Should a Child Start School?
The age requirement for school enrollment varies from state to state and school district to school district. Therefore, it’s important to check with your local school district to learn their age requirements.
Generally, children must be enrolled in school between the ages of 5 and It’s up to parents to determine when it would be an appropriate time to start school – whether in public school or homeschool.
2. How Do I Prepare My Child for the Transition?
The best way to prepare your child is to talk openly and honestly about the transition. Reassure them that it’s okay to feel scared and answer any questions they may have.
Additionally, encourage your child to practice self-advocacy skills and to express their feelings. You can also take your child on a tour of the school in order to get familiar with the layout, the different areas of the school, and any alternate routes to get to each destination. This will help reduce any anxiety and make the transition easier.
3. What Is the Difference Between Public School and Homeschool?
The primary difference between public school and homeschool is the structure and setting. Public school takes place in an educational setting under the guidance of certified teachers and a standard curriculum. Homeschool, however, is taught in a more relaxed environment and the curriculum can be more flexible.
Homeschool is also taught by parents or private tutors in the comfort of the home.
4. How Should I Choose a School District?
Choosing the right school district is key to ensuring your child’s success. Consider the reputation of the school district and the academic programs they offer.
You should also consider the availability and quality of extracurricular activities, the teachers and faculty, and ratings from parents and students. Take time to research the areas to consider each and every school district before making a decision.
5. What Should I Look for in a School?
When looking for a school, consider the programs and curriculum each school provides. Are their offerings in line with your child’s academic goals? How does the school rate in comparison to other schools in the area?
Also consider the demographics of the school, the quality of instruction, and the after school programs they provide.
6. What Are My Options for Curriculum?
Public schools generally provide a standard, approved curriculum to students. For homeschooling, there are a variety of options from a variety of publishers, such as non-traditional curriculums and state-specific packs.
You can also create your own curriculum using textbooks, online classes and textbooks, and various hands-on activities.
7. How Will My Child’s Work Be Assessed?
Public schools use standardized tests and benchmarks to assess student performance and progress. Homeschoolers typically follow the same standards, but their tests may be more tailored to their child’s individual ability, learning style, and interests.
Parents can also opt for portfolio-based assessment, which involves collecting evidence of their child’s work, such as writing samples and projects.
8. What Are the Advantages of Public School over Homeschool?
Attending public school affords students the opportunity to socialize and interact with a diverse group of peers and teachers. It also provides students with more resources and access to extracurricular activities such as sports and clubs.
Lastly, students in public school can benefit from smaller class sizes and more individualized attention.
9. What Are the Possible Challenges of Switching?
One of the primary challenges of switching is the transition for the child. Homeschooling provides a more relaxed atmosphere that can be difficult to adjust to in a traditional school setting. It can also be difficult for the child to make new friends and become involved in the community.
Additionally, expectations in public school can sometimes be higher than those found in homeschool settings.
10. How Do I Help My Child Feel Most Comfortable?
Helping your child feel comfortable in their new school environment begins with open communication. Let your child know that it’s okay to feel scared or overwhelmed during the transition. Encourage them to ask questions and to take part in activities and clubs.
Among other things, you could also try visiting the school and meeting other families and faculty members, or enrolling in an orientation program.
11. Should We Follow the Same Curriculum?
It’s important to understand that public schools are regulated by state and national standards and have a general curriculum they must adhere to. This means that schools may not offer the same material as that provided at home. While you can certainly supplement studies with materials from home, it’s best to embrace the change and embrace the curriculum being used in the classroom.
12. How Is Grading Policy Different?
Grading policy in public school is often stricter than that found in homeschools. Schools typically assign letter grades to assignments, tests, and projects.
They also adhere to a grading scale, which may appear more simplified than the individual grading systems used in homeschools.
13. How Can I Monitor My Child’s Progress?
Parents can monitor their child’s progress by staying in contact with their child’s teacher and attending parent-teacher conferences when possible. It’s important to ask questions and receive detailed updates on your child’s progress. Parents can also receive additional information regarding their child’s progress through activities such as homework completion and projects.
14. How Do I Handle Homeschooling During School Breaks?
During school breaks, it can be beneficial to continue homeschooling activities in order to stay on track. Parents can look for educational opportunities in the area, such as museums, libraries, and online activities, as well as review their child’s course materials. It’s also beneficial to provide opportunities for their child’s social interaction.
15. How Can I Help My Child Transition to High School?
Transitioning to high school can be especially challenging for homeschoolers. Parents should stay involved in their child’s education and actively monitor their academic progress. Additionally, provide access to academic resources such as tutors and study materials and explore extracurricular activities that the school offers.
Most importantly, make sure your child is prepared and motivated for the transition.
Conclusion
Transitioning from homeschool to public school can be overwhelming, but with the right resources and guidance, it can be a successful and rewarding experience. Parents must understand the importance of communication and involvement throughout the process in order to ease their child into the transition.
With these 15 questions answered, parents are now better able to prepare their child for the journey.