We're sending our child to public school...advice please...

[ThreeRedheads]

Hi Moms!!
We are sending our daughter to public school kindergarten in the fall. Can any one tell me if they have and any problems with teaching of "tolerance/diversity.." or topics of a questionable nature. I have visited the public school my daughter will be attending, met with the principle, teachers..etc..I just want to be prepared and know what to look for in case topics like homosexuality or questionable topics are brought up. Can any one advise?
Thanks,

[SpiritFilledMomof2]

Our dd just completed Kindergarten last year and so far we haven't had any problems with anything questionable. I think every school district and area is different though. Our district is really small and a little "behind the times" if you KWIM. She is actually going to be attending a different school (same district) next year so I'm not sure what the attitude is there. The community is generally liberal and not a lot of christians so it will be interesting to see what happens. All I can do is take it a day at a time and stay really involved. The minute anything questionable comes up though you will be sure that I will put up fight. I have considered home schooling I just don't know if I have the tolerence for it since she is Very Stong Willed, but I know you can relate to that :wink:

[stephwhiz]

We've not had any experiences like that with the school that our children attend. Best of luck! Stephanie :D

[ThreeRedheads]

karin,
yes, I can relate and that is my main reason for NOT homeschooling. I just think that I would not be the best person to be her teacher. I worry that I would just turn into a bad a mommy if I homeschooled. Make sense?
Thanks for your feedback though!!
I am planning on staying involved for sure!! I just wondered if I there was any type of questions I should be prepared to ask or if anyone had gone through anything questionable.
Thanks

Tracy

I am so with you on this topic and your feelings and concerns! DD and DS are due to begin school (kindy) next February and my reasons for not homeschooling are pretty identical and the fact that my baby is due in 9 wks, so a young baby and home schooling IMO would not work right now.

DH and I were talking over the weekend about allowing them to go to Kindergarten, pre=primary and then home schooling them after this.

We are even wary of "Christian" schools since a lot of them are WORSE than public schools !!! (trust me I went to one, and my nephew was pulled out of another so called "Christian school" due to a lot of issues and he is doing MUCH BETTER in the public system).

Some friends of the family have 3 girls and they were freaking out about sending the older 2 to school and they basically just prayed hard for them, and continue to do so - so far the girls have shown no sign of corruption, rebellion and are learning and they are both now in their TWEENS and not trying anything out and remain respectful to their parents.

I guess training in the home is everything and LOTS of prayer.

When my kids are older I am going to be telling them that there are people in the world who are the antichrist and want to teach demonic principals - but too heavy for now though!!!

We haven't experienced anything questionable in our school. DS will be going into the 3rd grade in a few weeks and so far everything has been good. Best of luck. Just remember what you teach at home goes a long way and I think they carry it over into the school environment (or at least my ds does).

[ThreeRedheads]

Thanks for the feedback, ladies..keep em' coming!
I know I just can not homeschool. I do not have the desire at all to do that. The Christian schools in the area are expensive and we just can afford them right now. I agree...I went to a Christian school from 5th grade up and they were not all that they were "cracked up to be".
I agree that the teaching starts at home. I am just so tired of the guilt that others put on me because of our decision to send our daughter to public school. Thanks for giving me the support. I don't think that every Christian home has to home school. I think it is great if you can, but I don't want to feel bad because I choose not to.
Thanks for being supportive.

[luvmy4sons]

Thanks for the feedback, ladies..keep em' coming!
I know I just can not homeschool. I do not have the desire at all to do that. The Christian schools in the area are expensive and we just can afford them right now. I agree...I went to a Christian school from 5th grade up and they were not all that they were "cracked up to be".
I agree that the teaching starts at home. I am just so tired of the guilt that others put on me because of our decision to send our daughter to public school. Thanks for giving me the support. I don't think that every Christian home has to home school. I think it is great if you can, but I don't want to feel bad because I choose not to.
Thanks for being supportive.

I agree that not all Chrstian families are called to home school. And I certainly wouldn't ever want to make anyone feel badly for not home schooling. :D Yet I can't help but say, if God calls you to it He will equip you for it. And it isn't you who will be doing it anyway, but Him THROUGH you.

I am one of the most impatient people on the face of this planet and home schooling has done more for my character than my sons I think. I make many mistakes, but we live and work and forgive and love together. I know it is only through God's grace that I do it! [claphigh] So....don't count anything out till you have searched your heart and prayed about God's will. Remember Moses didn't think he could lead the Israelites either. [whistle] But no matter what, God will help you through whatever choice it is you make. I will pray for great wisdom and discernment for you and hubby! A mother who cares so much about her choice is already doing a great job! [highfive] [girlsmiley]

[ThreeRedheads]

Leslie,
Thank you. Goodness, you spoke right to my heart! I have researched homeschooling, because I do want to do what the Lord wants me to do. I would do it in a heartbeat if I really felt like that was what He wanted for our children at this time. My husband is ALL FOR homeschooling and would do it himself if his schedule permitted..he would be GREAT at it too! He is such a teacher and takes every opportunity to teach our kids things. It is cool to watch him in action.
Anyway, I think what it comes down to, is if the Lord told me to do it. I would. I would do anything for my kids. Even putting myself aside. I am NOT patient. I am easily frustrated and irritated when my children to do not listen. Thanks for your advice. Yes, do pray that God would clearly show us what to do. AT this point we are putting her in public school UNLESS God reveals clearly that we need to do something else.
Please keep the advice and support coming. Thank you for your honesty!
Blessings

[tobikay]

I went through simular struggles when my ds started school. We live in a medium sized city and the school system is the 7th largest in the state, so you can imagine that we face all the urban problems that come with that. Homeschool was not an option, private school is not an option..so I ran for the school board and won. I figure that if I have to send my son to this school system, I might as well be involved in the running of it.

I guess my advice is the same as what you have already said, be involved, be very involved, and stay involved.

[ThreeRedheads]

Thanks tobikay!
That is good advice. I want to be involved for sure. I will look into what parents can get involved in. I want to be a part of my dd education. Thanks!

[SpiritFilledMomof2]

[praying] Prayer has been mentioned in a few posts. Moms In Touch is a ministry that have prayer groups all over the country and internationally that meet once a week to pray for their children in schools. You can read more info about them and find out if there is a group that meets near you at www.momsintouch.org. Unfortunatly there isn't currently a group that is meeting for our school, however if I can find some christian mommies in the area I might just have to get one started :D

[luvmy4sons]

Leslie,
Thank you. Goodness, you spoke right to my heart! I have researched homeschooling, because I do want to do what the Lord wants me to do. I would do it in a heartbeat if I really felt like that was what He wanted for our children at this time. My husband is ALL FOR homeschooling and would do it himself if his schedule permitted..he would be GREAT at it too! He is such a teacher and takes every opportunity to teach our kids things. It is cool to watch him in action.
Anyway, I think what it comes down to, is if the Lord told me to do it. I would. I would do anything for my kids. Even putting myself aside. I am NOT patient. I am easily frustrated and irritated when my children to do not listen. Thanks for your advice. Yes, do pray that God would clearly show us what to do. AT this point we are putting her in public school UNLESS God reveals clearly that we need to do something else.
Please keep the advice and support coming. Thank you for your honesty!
Blessings

Since you thanked me for my honesty can I will gently remind you that often God leads the family through the husbands? :? He awoke Joseph and told them to go to Egypt. He did not awake Mary. I know it is a scary thing. And I am sure God will make it clear. But if hubby wants you to...maybe God has already spoken? Just a thought. :P I will keep you in prayer and once again no matter what you are already a great mom! :lol:

[kymommy]

My daughter goes to public school. (2nd grade) Her teacher is a wonderful Christian and we have a great relationship. A definate answer to prayer. What has helped establish this is my presence in her classroom. I take my daughter to her classroom, and pick her up everyday. I see with my own eyes what is going on. My husband is also very involved. I volunteer in my daughter's class at least twice a month, I attend all fieldtrips, assemblies, etc. I offer to run errands for the teacher, or bring treats for holidays. We object to Halloween, so we don't attend that day when the kids dress up and have a parade. I have made new friends with the staff and my daughter's classmates parents. So far, I have not seen anything objectional to our beliefs. The ACLU would probably want to shut her school down! I do plan on homeschooling my daughter when she is finished with elementary school. As she gets older, we think pressures will change and subject matter taught will change, but for now, we are pleased and we are seeing God at work through this situation. One of my daughter's classmates's mom started coming to our church and was Baptised last summer!! PTL!
KYmommy

[ThreeRedheads]

Thanks, that is very encouraging. It is so good to hear such positive stuff. I have also said that I would be ok with sending my daughter to k-3 then homeschooling after that. I am open, just don't feel that is what we are to do just yet. Thanks agian!!

[SpiritFilledMomof2]

The ACLU would probably want to shut her school down!

That just reminded me of a couple of things that happened at dd's school last year. First during the Christmas/winter program, they sang christian Christmas carols. They also sang songs from other cultures and religions. No one seemed to put up a fuss. Also, on June 6 the principal stated during the morning assembly "This is the day that the Lord had made, we should rejoice and be glad in it. No one needs to worry about the date." I was thinking YEAH [dance] [dancing] A principal who's not afraid to speak up for God! Then again, this was her last year working here so she probably didn't care what people thought. Anyway, just wanted to share that. Sorry if I got a little off topic.

[ThreeRedheads]

Wow! That is awesome!! PTL!

[Reneemomto5]

Tracy you have a great game plan for your daughter. Trust you mommy gut or instinct on what it is telling you. You want nothing but the best for your little girl.

It took me quite a few years with my children in public school to realize homeschooling was my calling. I had extremely poor experiences with our public school system. And we supposidly have one of the best. You'll know when its calling you, trust what you feel. Know there is support for homeschoolers or public school or private etc. here, we are all moms trying to just do the best thing for our children. We all want to do this parenting thing just right, and that's a hard thing to do sometimes, balance, its hard.

You're a great mommy, don't be so hard on yourself. You sound like you are so involved already, and that's fantastic.

[ThreeRedheads]

Renee,
You are so awesome!
Thanks. I do want what is best for my kids. I am glad that I have this board to vent and just be me!!
Love you guys!!!
Hey, I know I can come to you too, when I decide to homeschool!!! :D

[PATTIPEANUT]

I am the mom of 4 - and I will have all 4 of them in our public school this year. My oldest is entering 5th grade. The next one is entering 2nd, the next one is entering kindergarten and my baby girl will be attending half day preschool. So far we have not had a lot of problems with our current school but it is a very small department of defense elementary school. I am beginning to think about what options I want to pursue for my oldest who will start middle school in the 6th grade. I am very concerned about wanting to do what is right for them in the eyes of the Lord. I have been praying and thinking alot about this. I feel like I could do an excellent job with home schooling but have not felt it is the right time yet. But we will see what I decide for the '07-'08 school year. I would say you need to follow what you believe is the Lord's will for your children. After all what is best for your children is what you are supposed to do.

I will be praying for you.

[amen]

[danou]

As a Christian teacher in public schools- I have been blessed by Christian families in my classes. Your witness to teachers/staff by your involvement, support and lifestyle speak volumes. The way you raise your children and serve the community are frequently noted. Your prayer coverage for teachers (believers or not) is invaluable.
Another poster mentioned that teaching begins at home... you've spoken with your children about issues... they can then speak up in class/on the playground if they come up. For example a simple show and tell item can be a witness to the other children.

As far as your concerns with "hot topics" - I would advise you to educate at home and keep in close contact with your child's teacher. Before jumping the gun and refusing participation- ask how the topics/issues will be handled, ask if there is an opportunity for "alternate" learning/presentations. Much can pass under the spectrum of "cultural" and "religious" diversity learning. I've asked a muslim mom to come share a ramadhan meal in class and explain what all that is about... i've also asked a Christian mom to come and share hot cross buns at easter and explain that...

Hope that helps
d

[ThreeRedheads]

wow!
That really does help. we are sending our daughter to public school and plan to be involved. her very first teacher, in preschool last year was a born again christian! we felt that was confirmation that we did the right thing. I just really think my daughter is going to be a missionary! She always asks people if they know Jesus, when one says no...she proceeds with why? "you know God sent his son Jesus to die for you, because he loves you that much!"
Thanks so much!

[Kensbev]

I plan to homeschool my children. I've felt called to do so since before I got pregnant with my oldest, so I've had a lot of time to do my research on it and make my plans for it. I feel like I'm still getting prepared for it, but I'm sending Audrey to preschool next year (when she's three). I tell others that it's for the social thing, but that's not entirely it. I want a couple of hours a week that I can spend with her little sister without constantly being distracted by her, lol!

If you're a SAHM, be prepared for boredom when the youngest goes to school. One of my friends just dealt with that, so she's going back to college (dropped out to get married) and has gotten a job at her kids' school library.

I think that the problem with a lot of Christian schools has nothing to do with the teaching, etc. It's the kids who are going. When I was a teenager, I had faith, but I still was testing the waters. Basically, my own immaturity and selfishness were pulling me away from what I knew was right, and you've got to look for that to happen in a public or private school. If parents aren't close to their kids and on their guard for all the temptations of the teenage years, it doesn't matter where the kid is.

[Cristina]

ThreeRedHeads:
I think the best we can do when are hcildren are in public school (or even some private schools for that matter!) is just be really aware of what is being taught, whether it be evolution or gay-pride, and just make it clear to her that this may be what the school says... but this is what God's Word says, and he is the ultimate authority.

[ThreeRedheads]

thanks so much for the advice. so, how would I be sure of what is being taught besides asking my child? Do I go directly to the principle and ask her about those topics? I am not sure how to know? I mean they send home the curriculum home. I am just not sure how to get more info.

[mommyb]

I went to both a public and a private Christian school. Honestly, there are some really frightening things that can happen at a private school too. Public schools are really good for some children because they allow them to learn how to deal with people in the real world and also learn to be Christians among non-Christians (really good tools for witnessing!). Just pray for their safety and show them the values your family believes in at home! :D

[PATTIPEANUT]

We are doing a combination of homeschooling and public school. Because our oldest son has a teacher who has caused my son to become afraid of her, we have decided to homeschool him. However, my three other children have great teachers and are doing well we are leaving them in school for the moment. It has to be a personal decision that you have prayed over and are sure you are doing what is God's will for you. I will be praying for you.

[ThreeRedheads]

what happened that caused your son to fear his teacher?
I also went to public and private schools. I agree that there are crazy things that happen in private schools. Our children are not "safe" anywhere really...we just pray for protection. The answer lies with Christ and we continue to teach our children the truth. Out of all the kids that went to Christian private school with me, I am the only one still serving God! That is sad.

[PATTIPEANUT]

She yelled at him about his homework and several other things on several different occasions so he is now scared of her.