It is back-to-school time for the Keepes household.
For 4 years, our students have participated in a virtual-school program, Connections Learning, through our local school system. It is an online program designed for students who want the benefits of homeschool learning and public school curriculum combined.
Similar to public school, each student is assigned teachers, coursework, and testing. They are given a schedule to follow and receive grades for all completed work. They are assigned to a local school within our school district, so they are permitted to participate in school related activities. They can even receive remedial tutoring at the local school, if necessary.
Virtual School differs from the traditional school model in several ways.
For example, our students complete all of their coursework online, so they communicate with their instructors via online chat rooms, email messages, and telephone conversations. They do not ride a bus to school because their classroom is in our home, and their school hours are flexible. The academics are considered more rigorous than the in-class counterpart, but our students can complete their semesters early if they stay focused and work ahead.
As their “caretaker”, my role is to supervise their progress within the program. I serve as a first-line tutor when they need assistance, supervise them during quizzes/tests, and coordinate their daily schedules, teacher correspondence, and classroom activities. I make sure they have everything they need to successfully complete their lessons, and I serve as a cheerleader when they become frustrated/discouraged.
Although I love being involved in every part of my children’s education, the virtual-learning model is challenging for me at times.
Our school day doesn’t always end on schedule, and I have the pressure of keeping our students on task. My role, much like being a wife and mom, is often a thankless one. Some days, I may not get any time to myself, and every career project or appointment has to be juggled with our school responsibilities.
Despite the hassles and struggles, this program is working for our family. My daughter has excelled in her studies, and my son has become a more successful learner. They do not dread starting school, unlike a few years ago, and they both want to remain in this style program until graduation.
The biggest advantage for me – I get to see their academic progress from the front lines, rather than reading it on a report card or hearing it second-hand from a teacher.
Welcome to the 2017/2018 school year! School is in session.