I am in complete agreement as to the state, and reason for public schools. I can tell you however, there was a time when bibles were read in school. It was opened with prayer. Real history was taught, and our education was the envy of the world.
I don’t exactly consider my kids foot soldiers, they are patriots. They are going to be fighting the coming war both in school and in the country. As to the socialization aspect, my kids are in this world, not of it. I know you can expose your kids to many things as a homeschooler, as well as many people. There is however, a big difference between attending/observing a boxing match and being a boxer.
I do not begrudge anyone homeschooling, as I said, I did it, and believe strongly in it. You do not need to defend your choices to me, I support free enterprise. I would prefer to have a voucher system but since there is none available, I have chosen to work with what is available, and raised my kids to call a duck a duck in the school system.
I agree that if more parents pulled their kids out they would have to conform to compete. I also know that most people do not have that luxury, so becoming active in the school system and politics is the next best thing. And while my time in the public school system is nearly through, I am still working from the inside to help our next generation not be subject to such poor options. There should be freedom of choice in a truer sense. Persons homeschooling should get some of their own property tax money back to assist with curriculums. Tax money should also be able to be used toward private/parochial education. This can and should be done legislatively.
I am glad you have taken the resposibility of parenting as seriously as I have, and I applaud every parent who understands we will stand before almighty God and judged on our actions especially in this most grave responsibility. All the best to you and yours in this most holy and good endeavor!!
But, once again...
I know you can expose your kids to many things as a homeschooler, as well as many people. There is however, a big difference between attending/observing a boxing match and being a boxer.
Education isn't supposed to be a boxing match. Children are supposed to be learning. Yes, a child needs to learn to hone his debating skills, and he needs to learn to stand up for his principles, too. But, sending children to public school 6-8 hours a day, five days a week, for 12 years is not required to learn to fight, debate, and stand up for one's principles. There are other avenues, outside the public school system.
So, we disagree on that point, but I do wish continued success for you and your family. Many blessings!