Frequently Asked Questions
Are parents qualified to teach their children?
You do not need to know everything in order to teach. Our parents are considered to be co-teachers in both programs.
100% Independent Study: We provide you with a certificated teacher who meets with you onsite on a weekly basis to develop your lessons plans and assignments. Your teacher is there for your support. You are also provided with teacher’s editions so that you can learn how to present a lesson and also correct your child’s work. Your example and enthusiasm in learning with your children will motivate and encourage them far more than striving to appear as if you knew it all.
Hybrid Academy: On Mondays, Hybrid Academy teachers will send home independent study packets, which students will be required to complete on Thursdays and Fridays in their entirety. These are assignments that they must complete on their 2 days of independent study. Parents should be working with their child(ren) on those independent study days, either correcting their work if the Hybrid teacher is asking them to do so, and/or reviewing all of the students' assignments for the 2 independent study days each week. Packets will have due dates set by individual class teachers. All work in the packet is to be returned (unless otherwise noted), reviewed and/or corrected by the parent.
How can I teach several children at once?
Certain subjects that are not dependent on prerequisite knowledge or skills can be taught to several grade levels of children together. Lessons can be presented in an amplified manner with explanations that enable all children to understand. Older students can do much of their work independently.
How much time does it take?
Our program requires a time commitment of 20 hours per week of instruction for grades 1-8 (15 hours for kindergarten).
100% Independent Study: A time commitment of 20 hours per week on the part of the parent for Grades 1-8 (15 hours for TK/Kindergarten). Planning time will vary according to the methods used, the ages of the children, and how many children in the family are being taught.
Hybrid Academy: Students will be required to attend every Academy class day (Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays). Independent study packets will vary according to the grade level, but parents should expect to have 3-4 hours of independent study work for their student to complete on both Thursdays and Fridays. Thursdays and Fridays still remain school days for the students in this option, so any schoolwork assigned to them must be completed and turned in by their due date (assignments are not optional).
What about socialization?
This is quite possibly the most misunderstood aspect of homeschooling. Our program offers many opportunities for interaction with other children.
100% Independent Study: We have weekly classes and various activities such as Back-to-School night, Variety Show (PTO Sponsored), and Fun Run.
Hybrid Academy: Students are on campus 3 days per week, participating in grade level classes. Hybrid students can also participate in 1 additional enrichment class day. We also hold spirit days for students, as well as PTO sponsored events.
What curriculum is offered and what does it cost?
We offer a variety of curriculum in all subject areas at no cost. Parents also have access to supplemental materials, resources and supplies that our program normally has available.
Why do families choose independent study?
There are many reasons why families choose the independent study option. The following are reasons why some families have chosen our program: Not happy with their current school; Middle school has too many influences, peer pressure; Religious reasons; Child may not fit in with the regular classroom, does better one-on-one; Child is falling behind in school; Family travels often; Child is involved with competitive sports which involves traveling (gymnastics, ice skating, skiing, hockey, tennis, etc.).