Colonel Newton

This might be the time to introduce myself.

I'm a teacher of seventh grade (whatever that means! ;) ) at an inquiry-based charter school. We do not use grades, teachers "loop" for several years with the same kids, and everything we do is hands-on, experiential learning. We're very close to the Sudbury School model.

I have 3 kids myself-- 8, 5 and almost 2-- and seriously thought I would homeschool my oldest when she neared school-age. Unfortunately, my husband's loss of a job necessitated me returning to teaching. When I first considered homeschooling, I thought I'd definitely unschool. I've been pleased with our school's emphasis on student-directed learning (reading/writing workshop, science inquiries), but am still interested in unschooling-- even as a teacher.

I can say from my own experience that there are many kids who can't be unschooled-- either because of family situations or because of lack of parental willingness. My goal is to move as close towards true unschooling as I can for these kids so that their needs and interests are respected even IF they are in a non-traditional public school.

I hope no one minds my joining the list. I know I represent the "mainstream schooling" faction, but even as a public school teacher, unschooling seems to me to make the most sense. I hope I'm moving toward that in my classroom. I'm also hoping to gain insight and experiemce from all of you about home schooling & to see where I can change my approach in my classroom.

Thanks. :)

~~~~~ Teresa


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