Accredited vs. Independent Homeschool

I was looking at an accredited homeschool program the other day, looking for “messages”.  At first I was very impressed.  Then I read the details.  Let’s do a little compare and contrast.

“Each curriculum package is individualized” – but they only use the textbook/workbook/school-at-home learning.  That’s not a very high percentage of homeschoolers’ chosen strategy.

“These outstanding curriculum choices coupled with the expertise of your advisor” – but the only expertise you truly need is the love for your child.  True expert advice would encourage you to follow your heart and your own expertise.  And remember those “outstanding curriculum choices” only include the options above.

“Our courses range from vocational to advanced placement” – so does our independent homeschool.  We are also not limited by curriculum choices, and we can make ANY class that our student needs, at any level, no matter how strange or unusual the interests our kids have.

“record-keeping options for courses on their own or through a coop”. – We have options that go far beyond that.  We can include ANY educational experiences on our official homeschool transcript.  We can include a public school calculus or band, a coop class, a distance-learning class, delight-directed experiential learning and community college classes all on the SAME official homeschool transcript.  See my book if you need a description.  The Easy Truth About Homeschool Transcripts.

“tuition is only…” – maybe it’s $195 for first student, but the fine print will describe huge costs of $1000 or more, with no more assurances than we have from our own homeschool and our own official transcripts.

Sometimes accredited distance learning programs are the right choice for families.  But look closely at the messages, weight the pros and cons, and think carefully before choosing.  Remember that there is NO NEED to be afraid of homeschooling at all.  There is NO REASON for concern about homeschooling high school.  Make sure your choice is based on what is right for your own child because you know your child best, and make sure it is NOT based on fear of homeschooling.  Fear is no reason for making an important choice about schooling options.

Independent Homeschools are TRULY flexible, individualized, supportive, and official. We are not flexible within some artificial boundaries, or individualized within certain curriculum choices, or supportive as long as rules are followed.  We can be official by following state law, and we recognize that accredited is not a panacea or holy grail. Our advisors are mothers and fathers who truly love their children and want what is best for them.

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