Replies to '11/24 Great School Debate'

"What do you think it means to be "educated?"

  In my opinion, this means having working knowledge in an array of basic subjects- math, science, literature, language, reading, social studies, etc.  Yes, having knowledge in different things means -in my opinion -being well rounded or having a well rounded education.  However, unless you live in China, learning Chinese at age 5 is no more useful than some of the things homeschoolers claim ridiculous in a PS environment.  Why then if they learn certain knowledge in a HS environment -like Chinese- is it considered enriching but in a PS environment it is cruel, useless,  and unnecesary?  I have no doubts that a homeschool/unschool environment can be fun and enriching.  I just don't think this continually fun and carefree place is what the real world will be like.  I think a lot- not all- homeschoolers/unschoolers have their own agenda.  The majority that go on TV and state their case almost always have had some type of unpleasant experience within the PS system.  Unfortunately, the world will not tailor or create an environment that works for every person.  Maybe teaching our young to adapt in an imperfect world might be more practical.  Teaching them to overcome weakness and work through struggles to gain a true sense of accomplishment might be beneficial in adult years.  Yes, I believe that education is important in today's world.  Education, however, doesn't guarantee that children will be well-liked and respected.  To "make it" in life means  more than having a lot of knowledge.  There are things involved like character, integrity,  and honesty to name a few.   I do not feel the PS system is responsible to teach these things- that is my job as a parent.  I do feel parents expect these things from PS and that is a shame.  It is a conjunction with home life that makes a child successful in ANY environment.  For example, I regularly use what my son has learned in school to apply in real life.  I am in the classroom each week.  I volunteer time and money to fund the school's PTA and other organizations.  I show my son his school is important. 

That said, as much as I try to appreciate homeschoolers/unschoolers I don't think public schoolers received the same back.  That , to me, is teaching intolerance and discrimination.   There is an extreme sense of arrogance and superiority in the choice to unschool/homeschool.  This was seen on the show with the statement of "..my unschooler will hire your honor student."  To me, this just shows that an unschooler has ideas but no discipline to implement them to run a functional, profitable business.  Again, learning Chinese is only useful in China- the same concept applies here.  Many kids can be taught a multitude of things but without discipline, structure and actual implementation in everyday life the knowledge is nothing more than a feather in their hat.  I hope you see what I am trying to point out.  There are many things homeschoolers/unschoolers cannot seem to piece together for a cohesive theory.  They don't want to be questioned or challenged in their decision.  I have always thought that if you don't want to be questioned then maybe you shouldn't question others...just a thought.