For my five children, my husband and I made the decision to homeschool. We had considered homeschooling before the pandemic, and with the onset of the pandemic, virtual learning in my house meant constant calls from five teachers, managing five children’s differing schedules, and too much learning on a screen. We decided it was time to homeschool.
Thus far, it’s been good, but challenging. We hired tutors for math and reading, and I supplement with more Black history and the subjects my children are interested in, like Korean and American Sign Language. It takes a lot of planning, but there are good resources at DC Library and online.
I love that my children get individualized learning and we can focus on critical thinking, being self-sufficient, and preparing for life. I also see more confidence in my children. My 2nd grader, who was struggling to read, just got it. It’s like a lightbulb went off and now all she wants to do is read.
My children really miss school for the social aspect. My children miss their friends and the teachers and staff they built bonds with over the years. I hope one day that we can socialize with one another again normally because we all need that.
By Brittany Wade, Ward 7 PLE Board member