Considering Home Schooling?

There are a vast number of reasons a parent might consider to home educate. Listed below are some possible reasons,  which can be found at the Home School Legal Defense Association’s web site, HSLDA.org:

• Customize and individualize curriculum and learning environment for each child
• Improve academic opportunities
• Utilize learning approaches not found in traditional school settings
• Guide positive and healthy social experiences for children
• Provide a safe learning environment free from fear of physical or emotional harm
• Have the freedom to impart family values and beliefs

As with many life choices, it is good to know if you are coming from the position of “Calling to” something, or a “Running from” something, (or perhaps a little of both.) Are you considering home schooling because you sense the value it will bring to you and your child in reference to some of the advantages listed above? Or, are you considering home schooling because you see no other viable alternative? One approach is not more “right” than the other, but each will bring with it a different set of perspectives and expectations. It is best to have a clear understanding of your core motivation so that you can match it with the most appropriate education and lifestyle format.

To increase ones chances of having a successful home schooling experience, you must recognize it isn’t just doing school at home. Homeschooling is a life style choice. As the parent, you are choosing to acknowledge, and take responsibility as the primary educator of your child. Even if you utilize outside help for some of the subjects, you are still the overseer of your child’s education. With this understanding, you will mold your families priorities and activities in a way that supports successful education.

Homeschooling offers many, many blessings, but as with all things of high value, it takes intentional effort, diligence, and hard work.

Pioneer Family Academy (PFA) Day Classes

If you have come to the decision that you are ready to commit to home education, and you are considering Pioneer Family Academy as a support program, below is some information that may help decide if this is the right fit for you and your family. Be aware that though we use the term “academy,” we are not a school. We are more like an well-organized set of tutors, to assist both parent and student with their education.

First and foremost, Pioneer Family Academy is a Christian program. It is our desire and intention to keep our instruction and personal interaction in alignment with the Bible with the goal to honor Jesus Christ in all things.

Some things to consider when transitioning from a campus based school:

Being part of PFA comes with the realization that the parents are committing to a much larger role in regards to the time and energy invested in their student’s education. It is not the same as a fulltime school where a parent might think, “It is the teacher’s job to educate my child.” By joining the PFA home school program, the parent is understanding and committing to take the primary responsibility for the education of their child. They are delegating part of the work to the PFA teachers, but still understand that they must stay actively involved in the day-to-day instruction of their child/ren for the rest of the week.

This program is best suited for Christians who are dedicated to the principles of Christian living found in the Bible, and for families who are committed to expending the energy and discipline in giving their student an excellent education.

A student will do well at PFA if he/she has:

– a love for learning.
– a desire to learn to reason biblically.
– a desire to exercise Christian character.
– an appreciation for studying Scripture.
– a desire to live according to a biblical world view.
– consistent, active participation in their church family.

Please consider carefully if your family is ready to fully step into the level of commitment it will take to make this a successful learning experience.

Please read the Parent Agreement that we ask all parents to sign and commit when joining PFA. Reviewing this may help you decide if this is the right fit.