Homeschoolers Arrive on Campus

INSIGHT magazine ^ | Septemeber 9, 2002 | Claire McCusker

[Stand Watch Listen]

Getting into the college of their choice used to present a problem for homeschooled kids. Witness Rosie Lawler of Lancaster, Mass., who likes to joke that being homeschooled throughout her high-school years meant "I was the valedictorian of my class. I had the highest SATs. I was the most popular girl in school, the prettiest and the president of every club we had."

When Lawler applied to Princeton University, the admissions office replied with a short letter that said Princeton deemed her application incomplete because she hadn't included a transcript of her high-school grades. And never mind that her mother had sent a letter detailing the homeschooling curriculum her daughter followed, Princeton insisted that wasn't an acceptable alternative to a traditional transcript. When Lawler explained on the telephone to an admissions officer that she didn't have such a transcript because she was homeschooled, the only response she got was, "Don't you have any grades at all?"

"It came as no surprise," says Lawler today, "when I didn't get into Princeton."

But this sort of skepticism appears to be changing for America's homeschooled college applicants, and part of the reason may be that there are so many of them these days. And their numbers are growing. Last year, between 850,000 and 2 million students were homeschooled, the large discrepancy in numbers due to widely differing definitions of homeschooling used by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and by the organized advocates of homeschooling.

However the counting is done, everyone agrees that the number of homeschooled kids is growing, perhaps by as much as 15 percent a year. A study by the ED found that, though once the domain of fundamentalist Christians anxious to protect family values from secular manipulation, the most common reason for homeschooling today is to provide the "child with a better education" (48.9 percent), as compared with "religious reasons" (38.4 percent).

But it's not only the increasing numbers of the homeschooled that are getting the attention of even the most elite colleges. It's also the test scores. In 2001, homeschooled SAT-takers had higher scores than the SAT-taking population as a whole, with homeschooled students averaging 568 on the verbal test (out of a possible 800) and 525 on the math, compared with 506 verbal and 514 math for the national average of all SAT test-takers.

College admissions offices also cite other plus factors for homeschoolers. For example, many colleges are looking for diversity among their prospective students — and that includes homeschooling rather than the cookie-cutter backgrounds of public- and prep-school counterparts.

Says a University of Notre Dame admissions officer, "We like students who bring a unique experience to our campus, whether that means homeschoolers or students who have lived in Thailand." Harvard University's director of admissions, Marilyn McGrath Lewis, puts it this way: "Often we're impressed by what someone has done under unusual circumstances, and homeschooling fits the bill."

Homeschooled students are impressing top colleges in other ways, too. Says former Stanford University admissions officer Jonothan Reider: "The distinguishing factor [for admissions selection] is intellectual vitality. These kids have it." Indeed, Stanford has been so impressed with its homeschooled applicants that its admissions office began tracking homeschooled students in 1999 to learn more about them. Stanford and other prestigious schools now send out special guidelines advising students with appropriate SATs who have been homeschooled how best to approach the college admissions procedures so as to make up for their lack of traditional credentials, including that absent transcript with its grades and lists of courses taken.

Still, the lack of traditional credentials continues to pose a serious problem for homeschoolers at some colleges. Without that transcript, say admissions officers at these institutions, they find it difficult to compare a student's academic performance with those of others from public and private schools who come with detailed transcripts in hand. In such circumstances, SAT and American College Test (ACT) scores assume greater importance. Approximately one-half of American colleges and universities require homeschooled students to take additional standardized tests, sometimes including the GED high-school equivalency test and even as many as eight SAT II subject tests. That's a heavy load of testing, and seems to some to amount to harassment.

To help out in a process that is difficult for everyone, homeschooling experts advise students to build a documented record of activities in their community to provide evidence of leadership, a quality prized by many colleges. They also advise homeschooled students to get to know influential adults who might write letters of recommendation that otherwise would be written by teachers.

But what about Rosie Lawler after Princeton turned her down? She's another homeschooling success story: Lawler now is a junior at Harvard.

Claire McCusker, a Harvard student, was a summer intern for Insight.

[Stand Watch Listen]

indexing

[Libertina]

We'd better let Kalifornia know this - they're busy making it illegal... (The vice grip is loosening in public education hehehe)

[TxBec]

Homeschool bump

[homeschool mama]

Thank you for the ping :o)

I know of a few homeschool students in our area that rec'd full scholarships to universities...including Ivy League. Kewl!

[homeschool mama]

California Teachers Association lends a blind eye to the success of most homeschoolers. It's intimidating and threatening to their vile intentions.

[Marie]

I'm planning on getting my kids a diploma through NARS. I LOVE this school's philosophy! It's especially helpful since I've designed our own curriculum.

(thanks for the *ping*!)

[TxBec]

What is NARS?

[homeschool mama]

What is NARS?

[homeschool mama]

lol...great minds and all. we posted the exact same question regarding NARS. :o)

[Tijeras_Slim]

Homeschoolers Arrive on Campus

The bell curve, intellectually and politically, is about to shift for the better in the hallowed halls.

[hopespringseternal]

My in-laws are teachers, and according to them, homeschoolers lurch about society with a squinty eye, drool-covered chin, and soiled underpants.

Personally, I place more value on my kids learning to read rather than acquire public school "socialization" skills like putting a condom on a banana and oral sex.

[SLB]

Not a problem for us. We had to go to an interview with an admissions dean. He must have liked what he saw. Our daughter is starting her third year at Georgetown College (NOT university) here in Kentucky next week. Not that I totally agree with everyone needing to go past what we consider to be high school.

[Marie]

http://www.narhs.com/

It's a private school that believes that the parents are the best judges as to the quality of their children's education. They issue diplomas for homeschool kids. They offer no curriculum, but you do have to meet their basic high school requirements. (17 credits, so many in each required subject, etc) You submit a portfolio, they review it, you have phone conferences and they issue the diploma. It's not cheap, but for a solid diploma, (and the freedom to teach my kids what I want and HOW I want) I think it's worth it.

[Carry_Okie]

Without that transcript, say admissions officers at these institutions, they find it difficult to compare a student's academic performance with those of others from public and private schools who come with detailed transcripts in hand.

My nine-year-old daughter is ready for Junior College level work now. Her younger sister will be by the time she is twelve. We'll just submit their latest work to the professors and they will write the letters, guaranteed. As far as admissions officers are concerned, there is simply no substitute for an interview. When they meet these kids they will understand who they are. My question for the universities will be, "Are you ready for these young people?"

My expectation is for them both to have their first BS by the time they are 18. That way, they can have a career and a life without looking to have their first baby at the age of 35. No, I'm not going to hear about "having a childhood." Emotionally they are exactly on track for their ages. To meet them is to realize that they are happy, well adjusted, and friendly. They get along just fine with both other kids and adults.

In such circumstances, SAT and American College Test (ACT) scores assume greater importance.

Indeed, and that is why the State of California is trying to force more subjective standards upon ETS. I'll just hand the admissions officer a college transcript.

[aha?]

Just a note for Home Schooled kids looking for a career.

Now, many times in the past, I have said that the thought was to mature for kids and therefore should be read by adults only or by kids with their parents there. At other times I have made it clear that the thought was directed to either Dads or Moms. Well todays thought is for Home Schooled kids. Oh, that is not to say that others can not or should not read it, but, it is directed towards young gentleman and ladies who either recently graduated Home Schoolers or are in their last couple of years of being home schooled before heading off to college or work.

But now, let us focus on today's daily thought. Three hundred years ago. So, what was going on three hundred years ago that was so important? Well, first, there were only two versions of the Holy Word of God available at that time, the Geneva and the King James. The other thing was that people took the Word of God seriously. They didn't look to it to justify their sins or to find loop holes, they read it, took it literally and obeyed it. Not everyone, that's for sure, but some. And it is a few of those who did, that we will look at today, and then move on to how Home Schooled Gentlemen and Ladies can be there counterparts in the 21^st century.

Three hundred years ago, there was a group of men in England, who read these verses: And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. (Matthew 28:18-20)

And: Afterward He appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen Him after He was risen. And He said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In My name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. (Mark 16:14-18)

So, what did these guys do three hundred years ago? And what has that got to do with you today? Three hundred years ago, free and well off men, who believed in the Word of God and wanted to serve Him, sold themselves into slavery so that they could preach the Word to those who were enslaved in the new world. Just as the easiest way to preach in a prison or hospital is to be either a prisoner in the prison or a patient in the hospital, so it was back then in getting the Good News of the Gospel of Christ Jesus to the slaves. Much of our annual trip focuses on visiting a Christian man in a prison in Kentucky, he is Saved and preaching within those walls. Because he is inside, he is not limited by time constraints as I am and as others who go to the prisons to preach. And like him, those who sold themselves into slavery, had time and opportunity to preach to the salves. Was their life easy? No! Did they get special treatment? No! But, were they abiding by the teachings and instructions of God? Yes! Were they doing His will? Yes! And they led many to a saving knowledge of the Lord, Christ Jesus! Just as that man in prison in Kentucky is today.

But, what has that got to do with you who are Home Schooled and in the 16-20 bracket? What if I was to tell you that I know of a mission assignment right here in the USA that pays very well, has excellent benefits, the potential for retirement with full benefits in twenty years and will make you every bit the missionary that those men who sold themselves into slavery three hundred years ago were? Interested?

Young ladies, go to school to be teachers in the public school system. There is no greater missionary need in the world than the public school system of the USA. And you will have access to some of the most needy kids in the world. But, if you read and understand the verse above, you'll understand that, as long as you are doing the Lords work, they will be unable to stop you. For He said: "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In My name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. " Don't join the NEA, but, pray for your class, and use His Holy Bible in your everyday teaching. Do not shy away from preaching to your classmates while in college and do not shy away from preaching His word to you class once you start teaching. For the bolder you are, the more the Lord will protect you.

Gentlemen, go to Bob Jones University or Liberty University, or any other sold Christ based college and then join the military as an officer. As a 0-1, you will earn excellent first year dollars, the benefit package is second to none and the missionary field is wide open, for the Chaplin Corp of the US Military is nothing short of satanistic. Think of the good you can do and the captive audience you would have as an Ensign aboard a nuclear submarine. Or as an officer in any of the other branches. The bolder you are, the faster you'll be promoted and the more protection the Lord will give you. Remember, if they discipline you for preaching God's Word, you have nothing to worry about, for His word teaches us: But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost. (Mark 13:11)

Now, while you contemplate what I have suggested, I want you to think forward a bit if you can. I would like you to take just a minute and think of the good you could do as either a missionary in the US Public School System or the US Military over a twenty year period. And then think this, at the end of twenty years, you will have full retirement benefits and more important, a ton of crowns to drop at the feet of the Lord. Now it is time to invite your dad and mom to read this and to talk it over with them. And then, if it is something you would like to do, you need to talk to the Lord, getting both His permission and His blessing. For if you are to do it, you will be working directly for the Lord Jesus, the Christ, God Himself, and He must both approve of your application and hire you. You go to Him and He will let you know if you're hired or not. Start by going to Him humbly and on bended knees, asking Him for the opportunity to work for Him.

The Lord our God, Messiah Yeshua be with you all and may He find you acceptable for His army of missionaries here in the USA, fighting the good fight, running the good race for Him and against the forces of the evil one, his minions and his ilk and those who serve him knowingly and unknowingly.

You will notice that I have not suggested that young ladies join the military of men join the ranks of public school teachers. Nor have a suggested a career as a police officer or politician. The reasons are simple, but are best left to a phone call.

[TomSmedley]

Actually, anyone with an inkjet printer and word processing software can create a transcript.

[hsmomx3]

Love your post!!!!!!!!!

[Stand Watch Listen]

FYI...

Here are links to various education threads (also containing numerous helpful links)

FReegards

The silence of the lambs: McMillan blasts bureaucrats for destroying public education
Source: WorldNetDaily.com; Published: August 15, 2002;
Author: Craige McMillan

Taking Charge: Let's Stop Aiding and Abetting Academicians' Folly
Source: HOME EDUCATION magazine; Published: July-August 2002;
Author: Larry and Susan Kaseman

’Open Directory’ --Society/Issues/Education/Education_Reform

Deconstructing Public Education
Source: www.newsmax.com; Published: July 26, 2002;
Author: Diane Alden

Specious Science In Our Schools
Source: Toogood Reports; Published: July 9, 2002;
Author: Alan Caruba

SYMPOSIUM Q: Is the National Education Association Being Fair to Its Religious Objectors?
Source: INSIGHT magazine; Published: June 10, 2002;
Authors NO: Stefan Gleason ////\\\\ YES: Bob Chase

Public Sector Subverting Productive Industry
Source: Toogood Reports; Published: May 16, 2002;
Author: Henry Pelifian

History of America's Education Part 2: Noah Webster and Early America
Source: Sierra Times; Published: March 27, 2002;
Author: April Shenandoah

How Communist is Public Education?
Source: sierratimes.com; Published:March 22, 2002;
Author: Chuck Morse

History of America's Education Part 1: Johnny is in trouble
Source: Sierra Times; Published: March 20, 2002 ;
Author: April Shenandoah

Audit rips Georgia schools' curriculum
Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution; Published: March 11, 2002;
Author:JAMES SALZER

Why schools fail: Samuel Blumenfeld warns Bush's education legislation is ineffective
Source: WorldNetDaily.com; Published: March 2, 2002;
Author: Samuel Blumenfeld

Public School Isn't Like I Remember It
Too Good Reports; Published: February 28, 2002;
Author: Phyllis Schlafly

What Is Lacking In Our Educational System
Source: Too Good Reports; Published: February 28, 2002;
Author:| Ben Cerruti

The charade of education reform
Source: WorldNetDaily.com; Published: February 2, 2002;
Author: Dr. Samuel L. Blumenfeld

American public schools: Working just as designed
Source: WorldNetDaily.com; Published: January 21, 2002;
Author: Vox Day

High Schools Fail Thanks To Grade Inflation And Social Promotion
Source: Toogood Reports; Published: December 5, 2001
Author: Vin Suprynowicz

WHY AMERICANS CAN’T READ
Source: Accuracy in Media; Published: December 4, 2001
Author: Reed Irvine and Cliff Kincaid

The Failing Teacher and the Teachers' Code of Silence
Source: CNSNews.com; Published: December 3, 2001
Author: Glenn Sacks

Time for outrage! Linda Bowles reports latest results in America's public schools
Source: WorldNetDaily.com; Published: November 27, 2001
Author: Linda Bowles

Illiterate in Boston: Samuel Blumenfeld explains U.S.'s ongoing reading problem
Source: WorldNetDaily.com; Published: July 20, 2001
Author:Samuel Blumenfeld

NEA - Let our children go!
Source: WorldNet Daily; Published: June 23. 2001
Author: Linda Harvey

COOKING THE BOOKS AT EDUCATION
Source: Accuracy In Media; Published: June 5, 2001;
Author: Cliff Kincaid

Why Do Schools Play Games With Students' Minds ?
Source: The Detroit News; Published: April 1, 2001
Author: Thomas Sowell

The Public School Nightmare: Why fix a system designed to destroy individual thought?
Source: http://home.talkcity.com/LibraryDr/patt/homeschl.htm
Author: John Taylor Gatto

Dumbing down teachers
Source: USNews.com; Published: February 21, 2001
Author: John Leo

Free Republic links to education related articles (thread#8)
Source: Free Republic; Published: 3-20-2001
Author: Various

Are children deliberately 'dumbed down' in school? {YES!!!}
Source: World Net Daily; Published: May 13, 2001
Author: Geoff Metcalf {Interview}

Could they really have done it on purpose?
Source: THE LIBERTARIAN; Published: 07/28/2000
Author: Vin Suprynowicz

New Book Explores America's Education Catastrophe
Source: Christian Citizen USA; Published: April 2000
Author: William H. Wild

Deliberately dumbing us down (Charlotte Thomson Iserbyt's, "The Deliberate Dumbing Down of America"
Source: WorldNetDaily.com; Published: December 2,1999
Author: Samuel L. Blumenfeld

Deconstructing the Western Mind: Gramscian-Marxist Subversion of Faith and Education
Source: www.petersnet; Published: Winter 1997
Author: Frank Morriss

Littleton Crisis to Government Control

The UN Plan for Your Mental Health

Here’s two ‘essays’ that are among the FR favorites ....enjoy.

Colonel David Crockett: "Not Yours To Give"
Source: U.S. Rep. Ron Paul Website; Published: Unknown
Author: David Crockett

The Pursuit of Liberty --- The Price of Free Corn
Source: The Liberty Valley Forge; Published: 1997
Author: Frank Redmond

[Aquinasfan]

"It came as no surprise," says Lawler today, "when I didn't get into Princeton."

Another Ivy League school on the cutting edge. Ivy schmivy.