Kate Kahler: Columnist wrong about drawbacks of home-schooling
Re: “Social drawback of home schooling” (Opinions Aug. 11): Dan Thomasson makes several broad generalizations about homeschooling that are contrary to many home-schoolers’ experiences. I am a 17-year-old high school student who has been home-schooled since second grade. Several of Thomasson’s arguments lack a solid foundation.
There are ways of giving your children an excellent education once they have surpassed you. Children who are home-schooled can take online classes, classes at charter schools and even classes at most private schools. I take several classes at MJC, which would not be possible if I were in a traditional school.
As for socialization issues, I have found that there are none. When you are home-schooled, you interact with the world more. Instead of sitting in a classroom from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., you are spending time with people of all ages and in various walks of life. I’m involved with sports, dance, theater, music and speech and debate. The friendships I’ve made are enduring. I have friends I have known for over a decade, and I know they will be my friends for the rest of my life.
Kate Kahler, 17, Modesto
This story was originally published August 12, 2015 at 11:40 AM with the headline "Kate Kahler: Columnist wrong about drawbacks of home-schooling."