Individualized education is paramount to our family. When a child can move at their optimal pace, delve deeper into subjects they’re passionate about, and receive specific support where needed, that builds confidence, fosters genuine curiosity, and truly empowers the child to become a lifelong learner.
With that in mind, while we have children in virtual school, we recognized that our 7-year-old thrives in environments where they receive individualized attention. In public school, we found they were often either bored waiting for the rest of the class to catch up, or they felt rushed and struggled in areas where they needed more time. It was difficult for teachers, no matter how dedicated, to provide the kind of tailored instruction our child needed to truly flourish. So we chose a microschool.
The educational freedom account program has been absolutely critical in making that choice accessible and sustainable for our family. But even with that support we have made sacrifices in our household budget, cutting back on non-essential expenses and carefully planning our finances. However, we view this as an invaluable investment in our child’s future.
And we’re already seeing that investment provide a return. Since switching, we’ve seen significant academic strides, particularly in areas where our child previously felt stuck or unchallenged. They now wake up excited to go to school every day. They come home bubbling with stories about what they learned. We see a much deeper level of engagement with their studies. They’re not just completing tasks; they’re truly understanding and connecting with the material. The smaller, more nurturing environment has significantly reduced any anxiety they previously had about school. They are now truly thriving.
However, the ability to choose an educational environment that truly fits our child has not only improved their academic performance, but also their overall happiness and outlook on life. The microschool environment has fostered a sense of belonging and allowed for a much more dynamic and responsive learning experience than we thought possible.
School choice programs like the educational freedom account are not just about “private vs. public.” They are about empowering parents to find the best fit for their unique child, allowing every student the opportunity to thrive. We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity.
Jennie Scales
White Hall
