My family chose homeschool for our children for a variety of reasons, but primarily we wanted to tailor the educational experience to their specific needs, interests and learning styles. This individualized approach allows me to adapt curriculum, teaching methods and pacing to suit the unique strengths and weaknesses of each student.
But this comes at a cost, and that is why I’m grateful to see that the Educational Freedom Account program will support homeschool expenses beginning this fall for qualifying children – and all Arkansas children the following year. I welcome the financial support, because homeschooling is expensive.
It requires purchasing curriculum, textbooks, educational resources and supplies, which can accumulate significant costs. In addition to the curriculum, I invest in materials such as science kits, art supplies, musical instruments and educational technology to support my children’s learning. I also pay a co-op that provides art, STEM and P.E., which are provided at no cost to public school students. This includes paying for a facility and its associated bills for these electives.
I also choose to invest in training programs, workshops, conferences or educational resources to improve my homeschooling skills and stay updated on the latest teaching methodologies and curriculum options. Were I a classroom teacher, this would be encouraged as professional development.
And this is all done on one income since, though I hold a master’s degree in public administration, I do not work, meaning the loss of a significant salary and benefits, as well as retirement contributions. All this while still paying taxes for public schools – without complaint.
We accept this as the price of providing a unique, individualized education for each of our children, putting their needs above monetary gain and my career.
But I will not accept those who suggest that homeschool families are predisposed to abuse an EFA to fund extravagant vacations or a new home theater under the pretense of educational expenses. Those who imagine such things clearly do not homeschool. And their cynicism is an insult to the dedication we have to our students, who also happen to be our children.
– Kimberly Dockins
Batesville, May 2024
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