Since Esme, my oldest, started school eight years ago, we’ve done school a few different ways. We’ve done some home schooling, public schools, and a Montessori school for five years. I’ve realized that what works for one child doesn’t always work for the next. I’ve also realized that we will probably need to keep making changes along the way.
This year I have three kids in public school and one doing an online school program here at home with me.
Esme is in eighth grade this year, her last year of middle school! She loves school and is making the most of her time there. She’s in the National Honor Society, the school orchestra as well as a youth symphony outside of school, the chess club, student council, and a drama club led by the Santa Fe Opera Company. In the Spring, the opera club ends and she’ll join the track team again.
For high-school next year, we’ll probably move away from the public schools again. But this year, we’re really grateful for all the fantastic teachers and staff at our local public school. She went there last year too and it was a good experience for her.
Eila would have started sixth grade in the middle school this year, but it just didn’t feel right yet. So, she’s doing an online school program here at home instead. We’re using Connections Academy, which works along with the public schools here to keep her on track. She’s very self motivated and I think this will be a good fit right now.
Adelaide and Rory are together at the public elementary school this year and I’m so glad they’re there together for the next two years! We walk to school most mornings – it’s about 2 miles round trip for me and is the nicest way to start the morning.
Ada is in fourth grade this year and she’s had a little bit of a rocky start. She didn’t get into a class with any of her friends, which has been hard on her. She’s also my kid that has a difficult time going to school. But, it’s been a few weeks now, and she’s feeling a lot better about it. She’s really excited to try out for the archery team this month – fingers crossed!
Rory, my sweet little kindergarten king, is loving school. He comes home and practices writing his name on every scrap of paper he can find. We keep discovering little Rory name tags taped all over the house!
The full day of kindergarten (with one half day per week) has been a big adjustment and he definitely seems tired by the end of the day, but he’s handling it all so well. I’m still missing him during the day, but I’m glad he’s enjoying school so much.
We’ve been adjusting to the new school routine for a few weeks now and I think, fingers crossed, that we’ve finally hit our groove. I’m excited for the new school year!
What does your school year look like? I’m so interested in all the many ways education happens.
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