Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Home Schooling expands

http://www.thestate.com/local/story/321150.html
This is an article about home schooling on the rise for African American kids. One of this particular family’s concerns is the gap in achievement on standardized tests that is currently between black and white students. I found it interesting to know that only about 5% of home schooled children are from African American families; the thought that this was predominately a “white thing” as the article put it has never really crossed my mind. It was also interesting to read about some of the issues that the mother of the home schooled children deals with on a regular basis; her being questioned about her choice to home school her children when her ancestors fought so hard for equality blew my mind. I think that this relates somewhat to the topic we covered in class dealing with historical impediments; minorities, as well as women, are often seen as having handicaps. Since minority students tend to have difficulty with standardized tests, testing may be something that compensatory education could help improve. I think that it is any families right to choose to home school their children, no matter the race I think the reasons that this particular family chose to do so are great; they are doing what is best for them and their children.

2 comments:

NakiaPope said...

Very interesting article about an overlooked issue.

Excellent post.

Unknown said...

I sort of have mixed views on home schooling. I think it is important to pass values down to your children, but socialization is vital in preparing children for adulthood. As far as the acheivement gap is concerned, I think that this issue has more to do with the involvement of the family. Homework can be a huge barrier for kids especially without help and encouragement at home. I feel sure that this family would excel in public schools since they obviously value education and the parents are willing to assist with their learning.