The Homeschooling Revolution

The Revolution Was Blogged

2007-11-05T09:30:00.000-02:00

Ladies and Gents, Adios.

Today is the beginning of the end of The Homeschooling Revolution blog.

I began blogging five years ago, at THR, and have now posted over 4000 entries even live blogging from Alaska and Hawaii.

It has been a great ride, and I'm grateful to have had the time to share my thoughts and photos - from the silly to the serious - and be a part of the conversation. Truly, it remains a golden age for blogging about and linking to newsworthy stories about homeschooling and other worthy educational alternatives.

A heartfelt "thank you" to those who stopped by and to those who offered information, family news, helpful critiques, and friendship.

I plan to keep writing columns and articles about education and other timely topics, so our paths may cross again somewhere in cyberspace. Till then, "peace, love and hoops."

National Vocabulary Championship

2007-11-02T00:00:00.000-02:00

If you like words and you enjoy contests, consider entering Win with Words which is being sponsored by the Game Show Network and the Princeton Review. The event is open to students in grades 9-12 and scholarship monies will be awarded to the winners. It costs nada to participate, and the finals will occur in Los Angeles next April.

The web site is here. Information about last year's winner.

And He Can't Be Educated Online? Huh?

2007-11-01T00:00:00.001-02:00

A registered sex offender may have to consider homeschooling, and he's not happy about it. The offender in question is a 19-year-old high schooler who has been attending a public school in Gallatin County, Montana. However, the newly expelled student is not really considered a student under Montana law, but he has been a model non-student student.

"(Albert) Brown had been attending Belgrade High for three years and was close to graduating. He had been earning good grades and had no disciplinary problems. His goal was to finish high school, rather than earn a GED, and get a mechanics degree," according to one newspaper account.

More here.

Update here: The non-student formerly known as the student is changing his tune about home ed.

'Nother Update: I agree with most of this letter.

Emily and her Buddy

2007-11-01T00:00:00.000-02:00

A homeschooled girl who lives in Wisconsin gets her wish - a doggie. But she had to earn it.

From the Beloit Daily News: "When Emily wanted a border collie, however, her dad, Keven Remillard, told her to get a job. That motivated Emily to start what she called Emily's Kennel Kreations dog treats. The family had already experimented with cooking dog treats for the family's blind and aging beagle. Emily figured she would take it a step further and sell dog treats for $2 a bag at the market."

To date, the 'treats for canines' business is a success. Now Emily wants to sell dogwear.

HT: Homeschoolbuzz (which now has a blog of book reviews).

Trick 'r Treat

2007-10-31T00:00:00.001-02:00

ABC Teacher's Outlet makes an offer:

"Spook~tacular savings 1 day only (October 31, 2007). Write Boo in the Enter Coupon box on the shopping cart page and receive an additional 5% savings on everything on the website. Total savings 15% below retail price."

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-30T09:35:00.000-02:00

Mug Shot Heaven. Sprittibee is hosting the 96th Carnival of Homeschooling. Theme: The Yearbook Edition.

Results of the Economist's 1st Education Debate

2007-10-30T00:00:00.000-02:00

Reports Jeff Koo: "The Economist has declared the winner of the first of three debates on education. With 56 percent of total votes, the house rejects the proposition that 'The continuing introduction of new technologies and new media adds little to the quality of most education.'

In his closing statement, Dr. Robert Kozma, Emeritus Director and Principal Scientist at SRI International acknowledges 'that educational systems are notoriously slow to change' but urges readers to vote for him to as he believes that 'technology is making a positive difference in education.' To illustrate his point, Kozma cites numerous anecdotes from teachers he's met in Uganda, Chile, Catalonia, Norway and the Philippines where technology is making an impact in the classroom."

The second debate is scheduled for Dec. 10, and this time the topic is more contentious: "Should governments and universities everywhere be competing to attract and educate all qualified students regardless of nationality and residence?"

Campeones: Medias Rojas de Boston

2007-10-29T00:30:00.000-02:00

In the spirit of "Manny Being Manny," read (or fake it) about the Serie Mundial en Univision.

Photo: Po Lyman on vacay in Canada.

Prof: Less Lawsuits, More Elections

2007-10-29T00:00:00.001-02:00

Last week, I linked to an Amazon book review by one Kevin Gutzman.

The reviewer, I've come to learn, is also Dr. Gutzman, who teaches history at Western Connecticut State and is the author of the Politically Incorrect Guide to the Constitution.

In this article, the professor/reviewer reflects on the disconnect between the federal constitution and constitutional law. He also isn't shy about airing his disillusionment with the study of the law and the judicial system.

Perhaps Dr. Gutzman's candid comments will be helpful to others:

"Americans should stop deferring to federal judges, because going to law school, which I did myself, is not any kind of instruction in morality, business ethics, the meaning of life, art, or any of these other things that federal judges are constantly undertaking to instruct us about," Gutzman said.

"Legal training should not be confused with an education," he added. "Legal training is not an education, it's trade school. It's like learning to be a carpenter."

Who Will Win the 2007 Heisman Trophy?

2007-10-26T13:22:00.000-02:00

Like political junkies obsessing about the presidential race, sports writers are already making their choices known.

For now, Tim Tebow ranks fourth on this ESPN guy's list. (T-Bow had a big game against Kentucky last week.) Now, here's what Sports Illustrated had to say about the home scholar: "Not only is he the nation's top-rated passer (177.5), but he's also on pace to rush for 1,000 yards. Tebow would be the first sophomore to win the 72-year-old award."

Tomorrow: Florida plays Georgia at 3:30 ET. The game will be televised on CBS.

Green Acres is the Place for Them

2007-10-26T00:00:00.000-02:00

Christianity Today gives a detailed look at the 'agrarian-homeschooling' movement.

It's decidedly a difficult lifestyle but a satisfying one for those Americans who have fled the rat raciness that accompanies suburban or city living and chosen to go organic in a life-changing way. These families are also injecting new blood into languishing rural communities.

Joel Salatin, who operates a farm in Virginia and is a self-described "Christian libertarian environmentalist capitalist," has a edu-sociological take on the trend:

" 'Once you opt out of the conventional paradigm [of public schooling] and find it satisfying, then you begin searching for other paradigms to opt out of.' Like the Lehrers, families that homeschool often start looking for ways for fathers to leave their office jobs. 'How do I leave my Dilbert cubicle at the end of an expressway,' Salatin says, 'and instead invest in my family, my kids, my community?' "

A photo at the Salatins and an explanation of their maverick farming methods and the apprenticeship program at Polyface for young men.

Marketed to the Masses

2007-10-25T00:00:00.000-02:00

The Invincible Vince Papale. Fall is the ideal season to watch a sis-boom-bah football movie. If you're partial to underdog stories set in South Philly, with actors sporting non-moussed hairdos, accompanied by a 'hit songs from the 70s' soundtrack, this one is for you. Cheesesteak, anyone?

(The parental review is here.)

Insta-History. Thomas Woods, a homeschool parent and Templeton Enterprise award winner, has a new book out. It's called 33 Questions About American History You're Not Supposed to Ask.

Amazon.com reviewer Kevin Gutzman briskly sums up the contents: "Woods takes up 33 commonly accepted notions about the American past (and present) and shows that they absolutely 'ain't so.' What FUN it is to read one of his little essays, each of which is about 7 pages long, and leave with a completely new understanding of a really important aspect of the past."

The Achy Breaky Guy's daughter. It's word association time.

I say "Montana," and you say, "Joe?" "Tony?"

Negative.

The correct answer is "Hannah." The cultural juggernaut has shifted, and the loud noise is all about a 14-year-old with a husky voice named Miley Cyrus. An unschooling mom has even offered tips about how to create a Hannah Montana costume for Halloween.

Ruth's Land of Enchantment

2007-10-24T00:00:00.000-02:00

Ken Robinson reports that his wife - author and illustrator Ruth Sanderson - has her new and improved web site up and running. Set up by daughter Morgan.

Ruth, a homeschool mom emeritus and an accomplished equestrian, is enormously talented and imaginative. She works out of a home studio often using regular folk as models (as opposed to professional art models) for the characters in her books.

And, it looks like Jane Yolen, another beloved kiddie lit author, posed for the cover of the Mother Goose and Friends book.

More of the artist's work (showcased at the Michelson Gallery).

"Do, re, mi, A, B, C, one, two, three!"

2007-10-23T10:30:00.000-02:00

The 95th Carnival of Homeschooling has come to town. Hosted by Kris, it's the alphabet version.

Maureen Get Your Gun

2007-10-23T00:00:00.000-02:00

One for the Where are they now? mental file

Certain home education veterans will remember Maureen McCaffrey's editorial contributions to the homeschooling revolution. Maureen was the former editor and publisher of Homeschooling Today magazine. She was also a Conservative Book Club vice-president.

I wrote for HT when Maureen was the boss, and she was a joy to work with - this was back in the 20th century before e-mail exchanges between editors and writers were the norm, so we conversed on the phone a few times.

During our last chick chat, I learned that Maureen, who is from the East Coast, had married a transplanted Westerner, moved to Wyoming, and enthusiastically embraced the outdoor life. Her husband, in fact, is Chilton Williamson Jr. who is also a well-known name in conservative publishing circles. Chilton has contributed to Chronicles and National Review, authored several books, and was an editor for St. Martin's Press. His forte is penning descriptive essays about life in the rugged Rocky Mountain West.

Here's an advice article, published in 2003, that Maureen wrote about the homeschool market.

Who knows? Maybe one of these days she'll co-author an article with her hubby for The Sportsman Channel.

Desperate College Gals Mock Housewives

2007-10-22T00:00:00.001-02:00

Homeschool mom Melanie K., and several of the coeds in her Bible study group, went to hear Attorney Schlafly speak at UMass/Amherst. (The poster advertising the event.)

Various drama queens also attended: "Our field trip was definitely eye-opening! There was much rage and anger in the room. College women wearing aprons and carrying mixing bowls and wearing signs that asked, 'Are you happy now???' Women with duct tape over their mouths."

Oh, ~~brother~~ sister.

Mel, sans duct tape, spoke during the Q&A. Brava.

BTW: Phyllis is now in her eighties and still looks stylishly chipper. The New York Times profiled her a few years ago, and the article notes that Mrs. Schlafly's two daughters don't exactly personify the 'stay-at-home and bake cookies' cliche. In fact, Liza (Schlafly) Forshaw, mother of three, made it on a corny-sounding (but, no doubt, prestigious) "super lawyers" list a couple of years ago.

A quote from the NYT piece that is vintage P. Schlafly: "Feminism has changed the way women think, and it has changed the way men think, but the trouble is, it hasn't changed the attitudes of babies at all."

For further reading: The libertarian ifeminist.com position on women's studies programs and affirmative action programs.

Former HEK Winner of the 2006 Harlon Hill Trophy*

2007-10-19T00:00:00.000-02:00

The "most prolific rusher in college football history" happens to have a homeschooling background. He's Danny Woodhead from North Platte, Nebraska, and he plays for Chadron State College which is also located in Cornhuskerland. Danny has a 3.72 GPA (math ed. major), but upon graduation he may be headed to the NFL not the classroom.

Sports Illustrated profiled him in the latest issue.

The smile-inducing intro: "When he (Danny) was five, he scrawled numbers on the backs of his cowboys and Indians and then spent hours moving the plastic figures around the floor of his bedroom in make-believe games. Once when his mother suggested that he find a more creative outlet for his energies, he drew a football field on the living-room carpet with a green marker."

The carpet artiste is the first football player at Chadron State to be offered a full-ride scholarship.

*Info. about the D-II award

Is it or Isn't it?

2007-10-18T10:50:00.000-02:00

Two opinion pieces (one from Missouri, one from Florida) gave me an idea. Maybe that Economist Oxford-style education debate series could include this topic in a future debate ...

Proposition: Publicly-funded virtual schooling is a form of homeschooling. Yea? Nay?

Throw in a pair of to-the-point opening statements, recruit a couple of argumentative know-it-alls, and then let the discussion and voting begin.

Like A Telenovela for Policy Wonks

2007-10-18T00:00:00.000-02:00

Skip Oliva passed along a blog entry he wrote for Mises.org about the Federal Dept. of Justice's Antitrust Divison's latest pursuit: Forcing the Anchorage School District (ASD) to contract with a different school bus service.

His closing exposes the monopoly crusade charade: "And the other obvious absurdity is that ASD is itself a monopolist. Where is the Antitrust Division's commitment to protecting Alaskan taxpayers from the estimated $700 million they're forced to spend annually on ASD? And ASD itself deals with a number of monopoly vendors, including the Teamsters that supply labor to the bus vendor, and of course the Alaska Education Association, which controls the supply of teachers (and which participated in a lawsuit to force Alaska to confiscate even more taxpayer funds to 'invest' in the schools.)"

Aside: I like how Paul Craig Roberts describes this fedgov entity: "Department of Justice (sic)."

Fun at the Lancaster Hockey Rink

2007-10-17T00:30:00.000-02:00

I attempted an action shot of Wid III manhandling the puck, but this is the best I could do (more like, no can do).

Jeremiah (Wid III's fab boss) and Nicky (Jer's fab wife) stay warm and focused.

Last week, the Ironman got to talking politics with Fred, the Zamboni driver. This week, he introduced Fred to Mr. Bastiat.

Bite-sized Education News

2007-10-16T00:00:00.000-02:00

- Today, the Thinking Mother hosts the weekly Carnival of Homeschooling.

- The Ventura County Star (California) whittled down my Mises.org piece and published it over the weekend.

- Two UMass/Amherst students (male) were brutally attacked in their dorm by a former suitemate.

-Pennsylvania g-school teachers would be prohibited from striking, if this bill becomes law.

- The current issue of Family Times (for home educators) is up.

Update: October highlights from Home Education Magazine are here.

Update: Mary C. blogs about binge drinking at ZooMass.

Seagull chillin' in Hampton Beach, N.H.

Now, She's the Teacher

2007-10-15T00:00:00.000-02:00

I was a 22-year-old Florida State grad., when I met 9-year-old Dina Hobby. I was her rookie English teacher, and she was one of my excellent students. Teaching elementary school, in small town Georgia, was my first "serious" job. I have many sweet memories of that time in my life, including interacting with Dina and her fun-loving parents, Rhonda and Bobby Hobby.

Today, Dina is "Mrs. Branch." Married with three kids. She recently sent me a note to share her thoughts on the "s" word and her homeschooled children.

She writes: "The people who think that home schoolers are not socialized have not peeked in our windows. Ben is 10. He is a black belt in Taekwondo, a sharp-shooter in 4-H BB competition, and a budding artist. Annabelle, 8, is a prima ballerina or, at least, considers herself to be. She takes dancing in town as well as home schooling dance lessons. She is also a budding artist. Celiabeth, 2, is just a rambunctious toddler who likes to show off by reciting the seven continents and her limited Spanish. There is never a dull moment."

A link to Dina's husband's (Bennie) company. Take a peek at the machinery used in row crop farming. 'Tis a work of art.

Photo: Dina has a pet dino. (Branch family on vacay in Kentucky.)

"May Intelligence Prevail"

2007-10-12T13:50:00.000-02:00

The Economist Debate Series formally begins on Monday.

If you voted, here's the upshot: "The Winning Debate: The community has spoken! The three winning propositions have been determined by popular vote, and our first debate on proposition #1 begins on October 15th. 'This house believes that the continuing introduction of new technologies and new media adds little to the quality of most education.'

Expert Debaters: Two global thought leaders in technology and education will square off on either side of the issue.

SIR JOHN DANIELS (AGREE) - President and Chief Executive Officer of The Commonwealth of Learning.

vs.

Dr. Robert Kozma (DISAGREE) - Emeritus Director and Principal Scientist at SRI International (formerly known as Stanford Research Institute)."

The time: Jeff Koo says that the debate site will go live at 9 a.m. Pacific.

Extracurriculars 101: Keeping College Enjoyable & Pricey (But Not Rigorous)

2007-10-12T00:00:00.000-02:00

Brad DeFlumeri, president of the UMass/Amherst Republican Club, gave me his blessing to post the attention-grabbing ad that was used to advertise a debate featuring a famous granny:

Wonder if students went to hear Phyllis or went across the river to hear Gloria?

Sidebar: Brad also has another title: Petty Officer, United States Naval Reserve. He spoke, candidly, of his military experience in this article.

Another sidebar: The Skipster blogs about the economics of "student life" and George Washington U. That's one ridiculously expensive school.

A 'Mike and Mike' Style Education Show?

2007-10-11T00:00:00.000-02:00

I received this announcement from the Florida-based Intel Radio Network (a conservative newcomer to the mass media scene):

"The premise of our programming is simple: 'If you have to yell, cuss, scream or intimidate to make your point, then upon closer and rational review, you probably have no point.' Rick Senninger, IRN founder and Executive Producer states 'We at IRN are not about partisanship, we are about citizenship.'IRN is currently contacting stations nationwide and has already secured 40 stations for their exciting debut this November."

Bob Parks, a guy I've blogged about before, will be hosting a program called "Outside the Wire." Kelly Cox, PR person, says IRN is looking for more talk show ideas. If you're game: "Submit an MP3 along with all pertinent information to the attention of rick@intelradionetwork.com."

Why a Rich College Gets Richer and Other Tales

2007-10-10T00:00:00.000-02:00

Mr. Dave Keenan has been fighting the town government of Amherst, Massachusetts, for several years, over the "dirty-dirt" underneath the house he purchased for $2500. He just forked over $63,000 in back taxes (and other expenses) to the town.

To mark the occasion, these cheeky signs were made and hung on his "shack."

Coincidentally, he lives on the street named after Daniel Shays, the rebel farmer.

Blogger Larry Kelley reminds readers of three entities in Amherst who will never get hauled into Housing or Land Court for not paying taxes. Two are educational institutions, and one of those has a multi-million dollar endowment.

Ironic, how the Amherst College trustees are terribly principled about divesting in companies that broker deals with the Sudanese government, but are downright nonchalant about finding solutions to bring relief to the cash-poor homeowners in the community where their precious school is located.

The inequity is enough to make Captain Shays twirl in his Sparta, New York grave.

Update: Larry reports that the Amherst College endowment is actually 1.3 billion. What was it that Ron Paul said last night on that Wall St. Journal debate? Oh, yeah: "That's why you have more billionaires than ever before. Today, this country is in the middle of a recession for a lot of people. Michigan knows about it. Poor people know about it. The middle class knows about it. Wall Street doesn't know about it. Washington, D.C., doesn't know about it."

Neither does A.C.

Another Update: The Harvard endowment is $34.9 billion! Visualize all the tax-free property that chunk of change buys.

Homeschool Carnival Time

2007-10-09T15:10:00.000-02:00

The 93rd one is up. This CoH is being hosted by the Tutor of Apollos Academy.

Battle of the Harvard Wannabees

2007-10-09T00:30:00.000-02:00

Allan Wall (photo below of when he was in Iraq) passed along this article by Gary DeMar who notices that Patrick Henry College and New Saint Andrews College have been attracting attention from the highbrowish media.

Writes Mr. DeMar, "Liberals are threatened by 500 students! Liberals control nearly all the major colleges in America, and they're afraid of Patrick Henry College."

An excerpt from the New York Times Magazine article that Gary footnotes:

"When you ask teachers and students what sort of school New St. Andrews is, they often cite one school they are not: Patrick Henry College, the evangelical college in Purcellville, Va., with a reputation for training home-schooled Christian students to wrest the reins of power from 'secular humanists' in Washington. 'We believe in a much longer view,' says Joshua Appel, a professor at New St. Andrews.

The curriculum is modeled on the vision of 'New England’s First Fruits,' a 1643 Massachusetts Bay Colony pamphlet describing the college lately founded in Cambridge. Besides required coursework in Latin and Greek, students at N.S.A. study natural philosophy (mostly taxonomy and creationist science), the Western literary canon, Euclidean geometry and theology; they also practice public speaking at a weekly declamation. Students drag themselves out of bed for classes that meet at 7:30 am, only half an hour later than classes once did at Puritan Harvard."

Ya think some of those Puritan-centric students need assistance from a large Costa Rican to make it through the early morn. lectures?

Coffee, that is. Costa Rican coffee. Dark roast. Yum.

FYI: Allan is on the right.

Life in the Swamp, Part Deux

2007-10-08T00:00:00.001-02:00

It's Monday! Time for another T-Bow update.

It continues to be a hoot to watch Tim "the walking freight truck" Tebow make college football history.

This past weekend's game - against number one Louisiana State - was terrific. However, it was the second week in a row that the Gators have been chomped in the fourth quarter by Tigers, but QB Tebow and his teammates gave LSU all they could handle. Next Gator game: Oct. 20 at Kentucky.

There's a photo of Timmy on this page working at the orphanage that his family runs in the Philippines. The schedule for the ministry's upcoming short-term mission trips is posted, and new volunteers are welcome.

And the hype machine rolls on: "Tebowmania is easy to understand. The guy doesn't look like a home-schooler. He looks as if he graduated summa cum laude from Central Casting High. He's got the blue eyes, the buzz cut, the rock jaw. His faith is unshakable, but he doesn't flaunt it. He peppers his sentences with the word 'awesome,' he says 'yes sir' and 'no ma'am' and he genuinely doesn't see what all the fuss is about. On the field, he never backs down from a tackler.

Mothers pray their daughters will bring him home for pot roast night. Fathers pray their sons will grow up to be like him. Linebackers pray he won't connect with that stiffarm."

Somewhat amusing, but g-schools have no shortage of geeks.

2 Home Scholars in Sports Illustrated

2007-10-05T02:42:00.000-02:00

SI's "Video Faces" features two HEK's in two sports that don't garner as much attention as activites that draw tens of thousands to stadiums: table tennis and racquetball.

Joey Cochran, the paddle guy, hails from Indiana.

Aubrey O'Brien, the girl with the racquet, resides in California.

These two are already world travelers. Look where Joey has been, and look where Aubrey is headed.

The Economist Wants YOU!

2007-10-04T00:00:00.000-02:00

My pretties, Jeff Koo, of the Economist, invites me to invite y'all to vote in an education poll that the venerable magazine with the esoteric (translation: can't be solved by mere mortals) crossword puzzle is sponsoring.

Go here, and click on "vote."

Part of the purpose: "The Economist Debate Series is an ongoing community forum where propositions about topical issues will be rigorously debated in the Oxford style by compelling speakers."

FYI: I don't receive even a complimentary issue or an Oxford-style speaking tip for plugging this contest. Jeff is just doing his job in corresponding with various education bloggers to spread the word.

Better Late Than ...

2007-10-03T00:00:00.000-02:00

I didn't post this yesterday, but the show went on anyway.

CoH, number 92, was hosted by Tami with the theme of "Fall."

Speaking of autumn, last month, when the Ironman and I were in Washington County, Maine on an overcast day ... I took a photo of two houses in Cutler, ME that face a pleasant cove where the lobster boats dock.

The larger, older home displayed the Masonic square and compass symbol.

That New England ambiance just can't be beat.

Lofty, Responsible, and Lofting

2007-10-02T00:00:00.000-02:00

"I have seen a ton of kids being homeschooled, and they are very smart," said 10-year-old Emily Micciantuono. "The best part of homeschooling is many more opportunities." This observant kiddo was quoted in this article about home ed. in Massachusetts.

"The idea that people can be taxed at whatever rate the government wants and continue to stay and pay high taxes is an antiquated one. People are very mobile and capital is even more mobile." Rep. Jason Murphey speaking about Oklahoma, but he could be addressing any greedy tax collector in any tax-crazed state. And lookee, lookee what former HEK turned legislator was present for 99% of his roll call votes.

"There seemed to be very little to write to youngsters from the front; the news was either too horrible or too dull. One thing that kept forcing itself more and more upon my attention was the very considerable part the animals were playing in the war." Author Hugh Lofting's (who served in World War I) explanation for how The Story of Doctor Dolittle came to be. For the first eight years of his life, Mr. Lofting was a homeschooler.

His Life in the Swamp

2007-10-01T00:00:00.000-02:00

This past weekend several college football powerhouses, including Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida, were upset by unranked teams. The football gods had a soft spot for underdogs, not Longhorns or Gators.

Florida is of particular interest to THR since QB Tim Tebow, a sophomore, is a former HEK.* During the game, the commentators frequently gushed about Timmy, and his stint as a foreign missionary was so noted.

Tebow, an all-purpose quarterback, made a heroic effort in tying the game. But, in the end, the Auburn Tigers, behind the leg of one Wes Byrum, a freshman, chomped the Gators.

More highlights from the weekend.

*Home Educated Kid. Phrase originally coined by Doc Cobranchi.

Update: The photogenic Dutchers attended the OU-Colorado game, and Lincoln posts pix of some really big hombres.

Ratracerebellion.com

2007-09-28T00:00:00.000-02:00

The Pied Pipers of this web site - Chris and Mike - have produced an information-packed resource for those seeking a virtual career or portable jobs. Folks, there's a plethora of possibilities - from translator opportunities to mobile notary work to legal studies tutoring.

Writes Mike, "(We) look forward to the day when homeschooling, neighborhood life, the environment, and families everywhere are strengthened under the wing of this powerful alternative to the Rat Race norm."

This 'rebellion' against the status quo even has its own plucky bill of rights.

Update: Their book is available here.

Commitment Isn't Performance Art

2007-09-27T00:00:00.000-02:00

Or, is it?

One of my sons is the proud owner of this piece of cloth.

Harhar.

This one is even saucier.

Wiseguy bachelors can order the tee here.

Now for the international home ed. news. (I got no clever segue. Sorry.) A Canadian harpist delights in homeschooling her brood of five. Grandpa helps out, too!

UK's Channel 4 does an extensive report on home ed. complete with those smashing British accents. Even the dreary statists manage to sound charming.

OK. Coach Has Texas-Sized Meltdown

2007-09-26T00:00:00.000-02:00

They sure can get carried away with their football in Oklahoma.

Mike Gundy, who coaches the Oklahoma State Cowboys, launched the rant heard round the virtual world. What a performance. Give the man an honorary ESPY.

He was (over)reacting to this rather silly column by Jenni Carlson, although she does insinuate that the QB is a mama's boy. When the brouhaha receives closure, Mrs. Reid might be poised to become the next Wilma McNabb.

The columnista's response to the response.

The coach calms down, and the public learns that he uses his phone as much as he reads the newspaper. (Hardly ever.)

One suggestion: Oklahoma's education resume needs work. Since he's in the teaching-mentoring-bellowing business, Coach Gundy should call a press conference and throw a good ol' boy fit over the Oklahoma Education Association's stranglehold on schools. It costs a ton of taxpayer money to keep students this clueless, and the coach could perform a much-needed public service getting mad about a real injustice.

Update: Pat Fiorde, of ESPN, has an opinion on Gundy's favorite quarterback: "For the record, Reid is 21 years old. He was old enough to vote in the 2004 presidential election or to die in Iraq. But few people are afforded the means to grow up more slowly than major-college athletes."

Exactly. (But it's still a silly column.)

Another update: Whitlock the Great sticks up for Gundy and Reid.

And while we're on a roll examining the sports/school culture, the Great Whitlock on the Jena 6.

For Serious Bloggers

2007-09-25T17:00:00.000-02:00

This guide - Law of the Blog - may well be worth the
ten bucks it costs.

It's written by Nicholas Carroll who is not a lawyer but who is a widely-published journalist. So, it'll probably be a snap to read and digest.

Update: Jim Bovard has an opinion on Mr. Caroll's work. In short: He really likes it.

'Nother Update: I finally read this guide and it's very well done. Highly recommended for those - journalism students, wannabe legal eagles, bloggers with an active comments section - seeking accurate information about intellectual theft, fair use rule, slander, and libel.

Carnival of Homeschooling, 91

2007-09-25T11:20:00.000-02:00

The "Fall County Fair" is in full swing. Possibly the first CoH hosted by a teen.

Another teen speaks (well) of her alternative education experience and astutely notes that homeschooling isn't just for kids. Go here.

Culture War Commandos

2007-09-24T00:00:00.000-02:00

Today, I post various writings that passed my picky Terse Test. Rambling is for the starry-eyed or the rude. In real life, a rapid-fire response may save you from harm, as Ms. Mann (see below) discovered this past weekend.

Although I don't necessarily agree with some of the larger points made by some of the communicators, you may want to read the articles in their entirety especially the talk by Mr. Walker, our nation's accountant. For a bureaucrat, he's an alarmingly sensible thinker.

And away we go ...

"Rep. Christopher Speranzo, D-Pittsfield, is reportedly concerned about the strong morality tone of abstinence education, according to The Eagle. Take an honest look at the life-long effects of teen pregnancy, and the rampant march of STDs among adolescents, and then ask yourself: what's wrong with a strong morality tone?"

Former Mass. state senate candidate Matt Kinnaman writing here.

"The verdict: the little guy would be forced to take anti-psychotic drugs Risperdal, Concerta, and Seroquel, plus the stimulant Clonidine and the anti-anxiety drug Klonopin.

This outcome begs the question of whether a six-year-old child, let alone children as young as three, can be diagnosed as psychotic. And, whether children should be drugged by potions so powerful that most of them are not approved by the FDA for use in children."

Attorney Greg Hession writing here.

"... giving teens time and motivation to pursue careers, de-emphasizing popularity and herd mentality and allowing the development of GOOD role models - which means that, by homeschooling, you are doing FAR more than raising children. You are raising adults."

Blogger Daniel Macintyre writing here.

"The problem is, the college administrators and the local laws are loath to crack down on the little darlings. They blame it on hijinks and high testosterone, but I think it has more to do with high tuitions."

Columnist Howie Carr writing here.

"The plain but simple truth is that a status quo path for our federal government is imprudent, unsustainable, and arguably immoral."

Comptroller General of the United States David M. Walker delivering a speech.

"He was just tugging me and the purse, and I just started slashing at him."

A pregnant Tracy Mann quoted here.

2007-09-21T12:10:00.000-02:00

Like the Flying Wallendas But Without the Trapeze

Get acquainted with the Homeschooling Cimorellis - an upbeat-looking family with 11 children who reside in the northern part of California.

I'm always curious as to how large middle American families manage the grind of daily living, and this article provides a peek into the kitchen detail: "Lynne (the mom) recognizes it would appear overwhelming to clean the kitchen every morning after 13 people just had breakfast. They take it one chore at a time. 'We break it down as a team,' Lynne said. 'One person clears the table, one person loads the dishwasher and one person hand washes the pots and pans.'

Mike (the dad) provides those hearty breakfasts with this thriving business.

2007-09-21T00:00:00.000-02:00

Doggie-Style Amber Alert

Starring: A lost dog with a kidney ailment. A heartsick owner who is also seriously ill. A caring community that diligently hunts for the collie and even blogs about her.

Bottom line: Noel is back at home. Yay!

The short story.

2007-09-20T00:00:00.000-02:00

Wangeducation.com

Frank Wang, who used to work for Saxon Publishers (amend that to 'used to run the company'), mentions his adventures trying to find employment as a math pub ed teacher. Can you believe his Ph.D. from MIT in pure mathematics didn't impress the ed-certification-crazed bureaucrats?

A fortuitous encounter: Frank shares how he met the late John Saxon.

2007-09-19T11:00:00.000-02:00

Two Grooms: College President Marries His Partner

File this one under ... oh, I don't know.

One thing's certain: Pricey Hampshire College's reputation as an "experimental" institution remains intact.

2007-09-19T00:00:00.000-02:00

Van Cliburn: Honorary Homeschooler

Now in his seventies, one of the modern world's most accomplished pianists is an American named Van Cliburn. Mr. Cliburn, a mannerly child prodigy, achieved a level of international recognition that is remarkable, given that he was lionized by the Russians during the Cold War era.

This Time magazine cover says it all.

During my easily-bored teen years, my mamacita gamely invited me to hear Mr. Cliburn perform at the Miami-Dade County Auditorium. The setting was austere - a bare stage, one grand piano, and one lanky man. The only adornments were the elegantly-dressed crowd and, of course, the music. Even though I was more enthralled by dance tunes than classical concertos, it was quite a night. His flawless rendition of either "The Mephisto Waltz" or "Rachmaninoff's No. 3 in D-Minor" netted him a standing ovation.

(He can play a 12-key spread.)

Turns out that Mr. Cliburn was taught and guided by a woman who was a one-of-a-kind music teacher:

"Cliburn's ties to the grand romantic school of piano were close from the start of his career: His only teacher for the first 17 years of his life was his indomitable mother, herself a pupil of Arthur Friedheim, who was a pupil of Franz Liszt. Later, at the Juilliard School, the young pianist studied at his mother's urging with the acclaimed Russian pedagogue Rosina Lhevinne. 'Van was so teachable,' recalled a proud Mrs. Cliburn in 1958, 'and always so respectful and quick to learn.' "

Rildia Bee O'Bryan Cliburn didn't become a mother until she was 37 years old, and Van was her only child. She died in 1994 at the age of 97.

Mane Man: That's Liszt, not V.C., in the little photo.

2007-09-18T11:40:00.000-02:00

Number 90. Beverly hosts this week's CoH. Along with providing the usual feast of home ed. entries, this carnival also tackles the serious topic of autism. Go here.

2007-09-18T00:00:00.000-02:00

Dead White Male Advocated for a Zombie Nation

Dr. Newton Bateman, who was an Illinois school superintendent and bigtime compulsory education proponent, wrote in the late nineteenth century that government has a 'right of eminent domain' over the 'minds and souls and bodies' of us all; therefore education 'cannot be left to the caprices and contingencies of individuals.'

Ambitious chap.

I came across that quote (and Mr. Bateman) in the "Compelling Belief" chapter of this book.

2007-09-17T00:00:00.000-02:00

Learning Large (as Opposed to Living Large)

Two articles I wrote about home ed were published this month. Thanks very much to those who linkity linked (or bloggedy blogged) or left a comment at the respective sites or sent a note. As to the latter ... I share the following:

Evelyn Davis, of California, writes about her son: "At the age of 11, Jorden applied to California State University's (Los Angeles) PACE program. (PACE stands for Pre-Accelerated College Enrollment.) After a trial summer quarter taking two college courses, Jorden has been admitted as a college student to CSULA.

Currently a homeschooled 8th grader, Jorden is starting, having just turned 12, the fall quarter ... He can, literally, obtain his bachelors degree before getting a high school diploma or being able to drive. We are all very proud of Jorden and excited about supporting him in his academic goals. Homeschooling is truly a wonderful way for families to live, learn, and play together."

Information about the PACE program is here.

2007-09-14T00:00:00.001-02:00

The Tesseract and The Final Act

As is my custom when I travel, I grab a copy of the local paper and eagerly scan the pages. On Tuesday, when I was in Maine and reading the Bangor Daily News, I learned that Madeleine L'Engle, the prolific author and Smith College grad, had died. She was 88.

Wrinkle in Time remains one of my favorite fantasy books and was part of our "curriculum." Such a strange tale, yet such a captivating one. Remember how much Meg disliked school?

This WaPo staffer also likes Miss Murry and Mrs. Whatsit.

Wheaton College is the caretaker of the L'Engle papers.

2007-09-13T09:40:00.000-02:00

Cosmopolitan: International Freedom in Education Day

Here's a portion of an email I received from a home educator and a doctoral candidate in the UK:

"An International Freedom in Education Day (IFED), an idea originating this year in France, is proposed for Saturday, September 15th, 2007.

The aim is to promote the idea of the importance of free choice in education, and to spread information about the alternative ways of learning that are available, or are being fought for in various countries.

The focus will be on Home Education, but we also welcome alternative and free schools to take part in this global event.

In Paris, a giant picnic on the theme of home education is planned, preceded by a press conference on September 10th.

In London, a Home Education Fair is planned. For more details please contact: homeeducationfair@ hotmail.com

In Vienna, an evening event on September 7th, will be dedicated for a discussion of Freedom in Education, and the practice of home education and unschooling."

2007-09-10T00:00:00.000-02:00

Away From My Desk. I'm in coastal New England enjoying a little vacay. Have a great week, and do read Skip's post.

2007-09-07T16:00:00.000-02:00

Obsessed with Patrick Henry. The MSM can't get enough of the tiny college. What's the deal? Do these reporters not get out enough? (Duh.) Is it mostly because of Rosin's book? (Duh, for right now.) Truth is, there are many conservative colleges, in the United States, which aren't large and and whose smart grads want to change the world and which draw in home scholars and who have students with the same evangelistic mindset and who attract those not inclined toward the politics of Moveon.org. To name a few: Northland Baptist Bible, Pensacola Christian, New St. Andrews, Bob Jones, Grove City, Colorado Christian, and Master's College.

Update: Coming at the debate from a completely different angle, this blogger argues that PHC is epistemologically incorrect.

2007-09-07T15:00:00.000-02:00

The Color of Greed. Seeking an exorbitant amount of pecuniary relief at taxpayer expense. Bad move, Dukies.

2007-09-07T10:10:00.000-02:00

At this Rate, Even Oprah May Want to Talk to Him

The ex-bank robber and former Vincent Bias (now Talib Sadiq) who I blogged about here, has undergone a transformation worthy of the late Mother Teresa. At least, if you believe the comments served up by his supporters.

Prison is supposed to be about rehabilitation and Mr. Sadiq, to his credit, seems to have learned that lesson well. But the psychodrama, over a middle-school counseling job, has become absurd. Even a well-known state legislator has gotten involved in pleading his case to the Boston-based Dept. of Education, after the DOE rejected his application for a license. (They won't disclose why they did so.)

A sidebar to this story is the bureaucratic rigamarole involved in the hiring and denying process (CORI background checks, committees, appeals) - again a ridiculous amount of human resources expended over a job that has nothing to do with delivering (their word) basic academics to the students.

P.S. The fourth letter is from a well-indoctrinated adult who raps the paper for using the word "rap."

2007-09-06T11:30:00.000-02:00

Walking the Talk in New Hampshire

Crunchy homeschool mom campaigns for the Doc. (HT: Lew's blog.)

BTW: If you missed last night's debate, this exchange between Paul and Huckabee* and Moderator Wallace is riveting. (First 5 minutes.) Discussion here and here.

*"Honor" has a price tag.

2007-09-06T00:00:00.000-02:00

Go With the Flow, Deal with the Bullies

This writer, based on his experience as a tennis guru, seems to have helpful intentions (he argues against homeschooling budding tennis pros), but it's obvious he's not familiar with homeschoolers who are talented athletes and who have mastered the art of playing hard and expending energy into something(s) other than their sport.

For instance, Tim Tebow, the Florida Gator's QB, was a solid student, memorized Scripture, and worked in an orphanage in the Philippines during his homeschool heyday. But even as a BMOC,* he still does volunteer work.

Tennisista Browne, regrettably, does manage to lose his compassion (altho it's hardly the first time this peculiar survival of the fittest argument has been made): "Kids need formal schooling for an abundance of reasons ... Students must deal with the class bullies and other factors that can distract from learning."

He should take a look at Purdue's study about gifted children and bullying. Distressing and depressing.

*Big Man on Campus

2007-09-05T00:00:00.000-02:00

He's Not Your Average Joe

Penn State's incomparable Joe Paterno, 80 years young, is still coaching football and motivating young men to earn decent GPAs. He is also an old-fashioned disciplinarian.

Here's how the coach is handling a 'boys will be boys' incident that occurred in State College last spring: "The players had been forced to trade in their cleats, helmets and shoulder pads for brooms, shovels and yellow gloves.

Mr. Paterno, upset that several of his players were involved in an off-campus fight on April 1, decided in May to punish the entire team, ordering them to clean up the stadium after all seven home games this season.

Yesterday, Penn State's cleanup crew made its debut, less than 17 hours after they had pasted Florida International 59-0 in their non-conference season opener."

No glory in that gig for the muscular laddies. But, thanks to JoePa, these Nittany Lions have a new-found respect for the 'real' clean-up crew, and they probably won't be getting into any serious mischief this season.

2007-09-04T08:45:00.000-02:00

Consent of the Governed hosts the 88th CoH. The 'foodie" edition.

2007-09-03T10:00:00.000-02:00

Homeschoolers: Those Backwater Mousy Dolts

Rod Dreher's column - about his son's journey from homeschool to institution and the Dreher family's raison d'etre for selecting a classical Christian school - annoyed several sophisticates in the Big D.

Sophisticates who manage to come off as provincials: "First off, home schooling is for rural families who live a great distance from an educational facility and for people who are afraid of their own shadows."

Meanwhile, this writer (who reviewed a book about the high-achievers at Patrick Henry Collges) marvels, "We might not have suspected the homeschooling movement to cultivate such outgoing personalities."

"We," as in liberals from Massachusetts who write for the San Fran. Chronicle?

2007-08-31T11:15:00.000-02:00

Don't Know; Don't Care. Mark Dice asks San Diego State University students about 9-11. (Dumbing-down alert: Possible ad before the video rolls.)

2007-08-31T09:44:00.000-02:00

Sojourners and Partners in the Education Process

Andee Hochman, who writes with flair, has penned a 'back to homeschool' story for the Philly Inquirer.

Note the part about the mom who graduated from virtual charter school user to homeschooler.

2007-08-30T10:30:00.000-02:00

An FYI to Blogger.com users, please read this advisory.

2007-08-30T00:00:00.000-02:00

Rufus' 'Ritin Rawks, Knuckleheads

("Knuckleheads" is the friendly way that Mike Wilbon, co-host of "Pardon the Interruption," addresses the show's viewers.)

After reading this compact essay, about Lewis and Clark and Jeffersonian government and the Louisiana Purchase, it's easy to understand why Dr. Fears, who teaches classics at the University of Oklahoma, is known for his "riveting" lectures. Probably not barb-free, either: "It always amazes me that academics whose main task is to drive to their office a few days a month criticize Lewis and Clark for making their way 8,000 miles."

2007-08-29T00:00:00.000-02:00

In a Village in Central Asia

An American man builds a school. No small feat given that this part of the world is both remote and dangerous.

How it came to be: Greg Mortenson's (of Bozeman, Montana) unsuccessful attempt to summit K-2 sparked a vision which led to the founding of the Central Asia Institute.

The CAI's "Pennies for Peace" project is tailor-made for student participation.

Do peek at Greg's photos.

2007-08-28T09:50:00.000-02:00

The Common Room hosts the 87th Carnival of Homeschooling.

2007-08-28T00:00:00.000-02:00

But Can She Locate a Tanning Booth on a Map?

Poor L. Caitlin Upton. Miss Space Cadet has become a pretty poster child for the wackiness that passes for American schooling. Her answer was a verbal stew. Hey, if she'd thrown in the phrase "world peace," she mighta won the pageant.

Apparently, Caitlin's attendance at a "blue ribbon" g-school, or her 3.5 GPA, or the glowing bio description (scroll to the end), or her professional modeling career didn't properly prepare her for the national spotlight.

She's going to re-answer, today. Whatever.

Let's leave the geography queries to the 14-year-old pros, shall we?

Redemption Update: Here she is ... Miss U.S. America.

Update: Daniel, who blogs at Key Words, debunks myths about the now famous question posed to Mademoiselle Upton.

2007-08-27T00:00:00.000-02:00

Rise of the Pro-Am* Media

Just like the homeschooling revolution has played an important role in transforming the educational status quo - the virtual school phenom comes to mind - so has the amateur media, clicking on their mice, impacted how newspaper chains collect and dissemniate news. The once cautious publishing companies are now soliciting help from readers and customers, because they are taking an unsentimental look at the bottom line. But the industry insiders have also learned that amateurs can be a goldmine of helpful information.

For example, a newspaper in Florida decided to ask the reading public to play detective and find out why residents in a new housing development were being charged an exorbitant amount of money for their water and sewer connection. The results of this experiment in colloboration? Illumination:

"The response overwhelmed the paper, which had to assign additional staff just to deal with the volume of tips, phone calls, and emails. The News-Press posted hundreds of pages of documents to its site, and readers organized their own investigations: Retired engineers analyzed blueprints, accountants examined balance sheets, and an inside whistle-blower leaked evidence of possible bid-rigging.

In the end, the city cut utility charges by more than 30 percent, an official resigned, and the fees have become the driving issue in an upcoming special election of the city council."

Score one for the Pajamahadeen and John Q. Public.

*professional amateurs

2007-08-24T00:00:00.000-02:00

Encouragment to Get Pregnant and Forego Shoes, Too

A reporter on Wolf Blitzer's "The Situation Room" did a story about Texas-based Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary's new degree program in "homemaking." For women only. There was the usual tut-tuting (from a male critic) about turning back the clock and keeping the fairer sex out of the workplace. Paige Patterson, the president of the seminary, explained (paraphrasing here) that the courses and undergraduate degree - which begins this fall and has attracted 15 students - are designed to encourage and instruct ladies who are committed to making 'the home' their vocation.

The coursework appears pretty harmless and more useful than the typical menu served up at most Womyn Studies Departments, like, "Feminist Reconceptualizations of Knowledge" or "Sociology of Gender."

Dr. Dorothy Patterson, wife of President Paige, teaches several classes. She also describes herself "as first and foremost a homemaker." Frankly, more of today's unfettered young ladies would benefit from a mentoring relationship with a stable, older woman like Mrs. Patterson.

Robert Parham, professional curmudgeon, had a snarky comment about the voluntary degree program. This is the same fella that was loudly opposed to the 'exit strategy.'

2007-08-23T01:30:00.000-02:00

Still Time to Leave Your Child Behind

Judy A. passed along this editorial by Alan Caruba, head of the National Anxiety Center. It came in handy, as I quoted from it for a 'back to school' piece I'm finishing up.

Alan blames the present public educational woes on Congress. They of the extremely low approval ratings.

In one sentence, he explains why foregoing guvmint edukashun, at this juncture in American history, makes sense to them that have ears to hear:

"From the Head Start program to the International Baccalaureate, the whole purpose of 'education' today is to create new generations of Americans who think that the United Nations should govern the entire planet and who uncritically accept politically correct beliefs about gender issues, diversity, multiculturalism, and environmentalism."

Of course, some parents may find that agenda quite acceptable. To each his own. But the scheme of continually raising property taxes to fund school-based agitprop needs to be reformed. Hoy! These Hoosier activists are attempting to accomplish the impossible.

Back in 1980, Massachusetts voters passed Prop. 2 1/2, a ballot initiative backed, in part, by elderly homeowners of limited means. This tax revolution was spearheaded by the dynamic Barbara Anderson.

2007-08-22T00:00:00.000-02:00

Family Values and Spiritual Treasures

Two superb reasons to homeschool: 1. The unprecedented opportunity to live a family-centered life instead of an institution-oriented one. 2. The unprecedented opportunity to develop your child's (and yours!) spiritual life by cutting down on the outside "noise" that institutionalized education unintentionally creates.

Two meaty and lengthy essays address both those topics. One directly. One indirectly.

1. An essay by the Kasemans simply called, "Strengthening Families Through Homeschooling."

2. In "Wall of Sound," Aaron Wolf doesn't discuss schooling but this deeply affecting piece will make perfect sense to those families eager to curtail modern distractions to better listen to the still, small voice.

2007-08-21T10:10:00.000-02:00

Gary, of Homeschool Buzz (or is that Buzzer?), is hosting CoH number 86 and has posted several amusing retro-ads from a magic tricks catalog.

2007-08-21T00:00:00.000-02:00

Laissez Faire Education in America's Past

Writing for the Mackinac Institute of Michigan, Matthew J. Brouillette penned a short essay, in 2001, about educational choice in the colonial era. He writes, "There were common schools (often partially financed by local taxpayers, but primarily funded through private means) and specialized private schools of every sort (church schools, academies that prepared students for college, seminaries, dame schools for primary education, charity schools for the poor, and private tutors). Free schools were established by philanthropists and religious societies throughout the country to meet the educational needs of the very poor."

The first time I ever heard of a "dame" school was the one managed by Kit and Mercy in the Witch of Blackbird Pond.

Photo: A colonial-era hornbook, although it's not our idea of a book.

2007-08-20T00:00:00.000-02:00

It Takes Interviewing a Village to Get a Soundbite

This article, mainly about home ed's steady growth in the Shenandoah Valley (Virginny), offers quotes from a diverse cast: A homeschool mom emeritus who is now working on a doctorate in education; a Fordham University professor who has authored a book about issues relevant to home ed; the Colfaxes, the maverick home educators who sent several sons to Harvard; and the standard issue educrats. Bonus: Fuzzy thinking on display on both sides of the aisle.

FYI: More information about the book that Bruce S. Cooper edited.

A Harvard Crimson golden oldie about the Colfax family's no-nonsense life on the ranch.

Over, in 'nearby' Hickory, North Carolina, U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry wants to picnic with home scholars tomorrow. (Blooper fantasy: An absent-minded copy editor substituting "party" for "picnic" in the headline.)

Update: Another regional home ed article (Northern Santa Barbara County, California) - in fact, a cover story.

A star is born: "Ultimately, the Monettes opted for home schooling. Although their son's public school teacher had warned that he would not be able to learn how to read for two more years, Keysha began home schooling her son last winter, and he was reading in three months.

Keysha Monette used a phonics program and worked with her son at his own pace, providing a level of personal attention that would not be possible in a large classroom. The Monettes now are home schooling their other children."

2007-08-17T00:00:00.000-02:00

A Mother and Daughter's Travelschool Adventure

Amy and Caroline Haroldson, of Oregon, are going to pack maps, a laptop, and other necessities into their station wagon, and go on a cross-country educational extravaganza.

The 6-week itinerary includes: "... non-stop learning on a variety of subjects, starting with the fossil beds in Eastern Oregon, through the Midwest to the historical cities of Boston, New York and Philadelphia to the Deep South.

Along the way, Caroline will read books and other materials pertaining to what they'll see. That could include portions of 'Huck Finn' in time for the Mark Twain House stop, or poems by Edgar Allan Poe preceding their visit to the writer's historic site in Philadelphia. Maybe, at Graceland, they'll throw in an Elvis tune or two for good measure."

I vote for an Elvis sighting. Bon voyage, ladies, and remember, Caroline, this president was initial-free.

2007-08-16T00:00:00.000-02:00

Homeshoring: Beneficial to Employers and Employees

If you are exploring legit. opportunities working as a virtual assistant or a customer service rep, at home, this Fortune magazine article is must reading.

Anne Fisher, who wrote the piece, works out of her home. The numbers don't lie: "Take Alpine Access: The company handles calls for retailers like J. Crew and 1-800-Flowers using 7,500 home-based agents - more than 80 percent of whom have 4-year college degrees, with an average of 17 years' work experience. They're in it mainly for the chance to set their own hours and avoid having to commute. Alpine says it gets about 80,000 job applications a year."

Who knew 'homework' had become so popular?

2007-08-15T00:42:00.001-02:00

Montana Comes to Montana & a Writer Who Wouldn't Dig

(No, the two don't relate, but I've misplaced my creative license.)

When athletic scholarships are used to fund criminal enterprises ... In a tough-minded piece of investigative reporting from Sports Illustrated about wayward athletes and shady coaching practices at Montana State University, the little paper that could - the Belgrade News - gets noticed. Congrats to Editor Andy Malby and the staff. (Andy kindly ran a recent piece about NASCAR I wrote for the BN.)

"(He) had formed a college for himself..." Ralph Waldo Emerson, the Unitarian and transcendentalist, wrote this essay about education. His point of view is sympatico to unschooling and homeschooling, although the renowned lecturer doesn't use those words. Apparently, R.W.E. didn't enjoy his stint as a schoolteacher. The anecdote (towards the end) about Sir Charles Fellowes who re-created an Ionic trophy/monument for the British museum is awash with significant details.

2007-08-14T13:00:00.000-02:00

Not Back to School Reading

This one - posted at Mises.org - is a golden oldie as it was published in 1999.

Andrew Young and Walter Block even take a poke at the great Milton Friedman. Why? Because the essence of the pair's argument is as follows:

"Contrary to most modern arguments claiming to favor the 'privatization' of schools, we do not view the government contracting of private companies, the issuance of government vouchers for payment of education, or the direct subsidization of private institutions as free-market solutions.

Indeed, the only free-market solution is the abolition of all governmental ties to primary education."

Block and Young rationally, intellectually work they way through each argument in favor of government schooling.

2007-08-14T09:30:00.000-02:00

The homesquirrels at Dewey's Treehouse go shopping for the Carnival of Homeschooling. Edition number 85.

Reepicheep sends "hamster heys" to Snowball.

2007-08-13T00:00:00.000-02:00

Epstein Unleashed

The Case Against Adolescence author, Robert Epstein, is interviewed by Andrea Longbottom for the Home School Court Report. Turns out he's a father of four who is thinking about home education for his two youngest children. With his well-connected background and research interests, Dr. E. will make a powerful apologist for the cause.

This comment is refreshingly radical: "Homeschooling is still part of a larger system of compulsory education."

It's an action-packed Q&A for those eager (all 25 of us) to hear more arguments against the infantilizing of teens. One tidbit about the past he shares: "If you look through most of human history or you look at many cultures today, you find that teens spend most of their time learning to become adults. Here, they spend most of their time trying to break away from adults."

Or, being babysat (instead of taught) by adults in the school setting.

Read and discuss the whole interview.

FYI: The "Dr. Helen Smith" mentioned is the Instapundit's Instawife.

Further reading on the topic: David Carr, NFL QB, chose to get married at 19.

2007-08-10T00:00:00.000-02:00

"Anti-Czar Czar" Applauds Home Educators

James Bovard, author of Attention Deficit Democracy, and Lost Rights, challenges the brainwashed to stop feeling like they "owe" the government a debt and, therefore, should be "grateful" for everything from public-sector mail services to road construction.

He also has a few choice words about edukashun: "Public high schools graduate an estimated 700,000 functionally illiterate teenagers each year. Regardless of how badly school officials fail to serve students, parents are left no recourse but to file complaints with the same unresponsive bureaucracy."

Fortunately, he closes that section on a note of hope, not despair: "The rapid spread of the home-schooling movement (whose students consistently outscore public-school students on standardized tests) vivifies how parents can do better on their own."

Keep on vivifying, people!

2007-08-09T01:21:00.000-02:00

Dept. of You Can't Make This Stuff Up

The cushy guidance counselor positions, in the Amherst, Massachusetts school system, always draw a ton of applicants whenever there's a job opening. So, what does it take to get noticed by the muckety-mucks? The right degrees? Yup. The right recommendations? Sure. Experience? Not really. But if you've also got street cred and a liberal-approved nouveau identity - come on down!

From the Amherst Bulletin: "The new guidance counselor at Amherst Regional Middle School, Talib Sadiq, is a 1988 graduate of Amherst Regional High School. He's also been a soldier, fighting in Desert Storm, the first Iraq war. And once, he was also a bank robber. In December, 1993, Sadiq, who was known then by his birth name, Vincent E. Bias, was arrested after robbing a BayBank branch in Springfield with a loaded 9mm handgun. He was sentenced to five to seven years for armed robbery, assault with a dangerous weapon and assault and battery on a police officer.

Over the course of the next 14 years, Sadiq converted to Islam, changed his name, earned college degrees and turned his life around, he and his employers at the regional school say. Sadiq says he has left Vincent Bias and his crime far behind, and he is ready to make a full-time contribution to the school and the town where he lives."

Mr. Sadiq, btw, hopes to be a principal someday.

Meanwhile, a fella in Amherst has started a "church" dedicated to the writings of Kurt Vonnegut.

The flakes in this town are more entertaining than HDTV.

Photo: Amherst Regional Middle School student artwork.

2007-08-08T00:00:00.000-02:00

Reasonable Reasoning. Despite dealing with illness in the Nerd Family, Nerd Mom found the energy to organize CoH number 84. Enjoy!

Summer Issue of Home Education Magazine: "'Homeschooling for the Rest of Us' by April Duritza defines some archetypical homeschool families. 'Full-Time Work- Full-Time Homeschooling' by Kate Frishman tells how when her husband lost his job, her family made adjustments and sacrifices to be able to continue homeschooling even after she went to work full time and R. Williams shares her tips for keeping your sanity in the housecleaning wars in 'Keep it Clean.' "

For more information about HEM subscriptions and news tidbits, go here.

Paging the freedom-minded wristband wearers.

2007-08-07T00:00:00.000-02:00

Former Home Scholar Offers "Legendary Customer Service"

I felt like I had downed a triple espresso after reading this one.

It's about a high-energy, friendly young man who loves his job at the drive-thru of a Starbucks in Eagle River, Alaska. Neat facts about Brad Eberhardt: architecture student at U/Alaska/Anchorage employing the "pay as you go" plan, adopted (originally from Calcutta), and a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity.

If he hasn't already received one, Brad is due for a raise.

2007-08-06T00:00:00.001-02:00

When Action Sports Athletes Need an Education

Catch the crazy X Games 13? Even if watching daredevil BMX bikers isn't on your "to do" list, it's the season to revisit this New York Times article. The colorful piece showcases those who bypass brick and mortar schools not to avoid bullies, promote religious values, or achieve better academics. Instead, homeschooling reigns as the convenient lifestyle choice for, say, a teenage professional skateboarder, who can command six figures, but is still bound by the ruling class' anti-free market compulsory education strictures.

The money quote: "As athletes get younger and these sports get more competitive, you have to stay in the game,' said Circe Wallace, a retired snowboarder turned action sports agent. "I've been in this business 15 years, and it's always been those with parents that understand the freedom and flexibility of home schooling that go the furthest."

Photo: Nyjah Huston, 12-year-old skateboarding sensation.

2007-08-03T12:30:00.000-02:00

Jennifer Danielle Duggar, Number 17

The homeschooling family extraordinaire welcomes another bambina to the clan. She weighed a healthy 8 pounds, 8 ounces and is 21 inches long. Michelle is doing great!

The AP says the D's will be on TV again: "The Duggars have been featured on several programs on cable's Discovery Health Network. The next special, the Duggar Family Album, is scheduled to air next month, Jim Bob Duggar said."

2007-08-03T01:00:00.000-02:00

Think Locally, Blog Globally

Judy, who is thrivin' in the blogosphere's unique culture, was, again, awarded. This recognition is called, "Bloggers for Positive Global Change."

The purpose for the award: "There are a wide range of bloggers on the Web who, like Atlas from mythology, have taken the weight of the world upon their shoulders and are trying to build awareness among their readership in order to create a more sustainable and enlightened future."

Consent of the Governed's operator selected cinco bloggers who are trying to "change the world in a positive way," and generously invited THR in on the group hug. Thanks, Mrs. A., and eat your heart out, Algore. Your turf has been invaded.

Now I get to select five:

Larry for pursuing citizen journalism long before Drudge ever did.

Mary for being a fair and balanced MSM political reporter.

Carol, the humble, who sings better than what's her face Spears.

Melanie, a Proverbs woman, who will soon be a kiddie lit. author.

Jason who continues to stand against guvmint corruption.

2007-08-02T00:00:00.001-02:00

Girlish Not Churlish

Josefina and Molly Look-Alikes, Come on Down. The Hands-on Museum is looking for local (south central Penn.) gals to model "American Girl" fashions, based on the popular dolls. Fifty models will be selected for four shows in November. Details here.

The Dignity Factor. Mona Charen writes about Wendy Shalit's new book, "Girls Gone Mild." The author doesn't care for the tarted-up "Bratz dolls." (Barbie-lite?) Wendy shared (via email) that a few of the "high-standard" gals she interviewed for the book were homeschooled during the early part of their schooling.

Ruminating Ain't Liberating. Henry discovered a study that argues that chick chat isn't a healthy lifestyle choice for flighty teens. States Amanda Rose, "Co-rumination also may lead to depression and anxiety because it takes so much time - time that could be used to engage in other, more positive activities that could help distract youth from their problems."

Stylish Statement. For older girls who seek relief from high property taxes and unfair assessments. Here's more about this movement.

2007-08-01T00:05:00.000-02:00

CoH number 83 is now up. This week's theme is "Time to Get a Physical."

2007-08-01T00:00:00.001-02:00

The Lab Issue: Parent Educators Find a Solution

An excerpt from Indiana Wesleyan University's "Volunteerism" section:

"IWU chemistry professor Dr. Dennis Brinkman smiled as a chorus of 'ooos' and 'ahhs' spread throughout the lab room as the mystery solution flashed into brilliant colors. Although this was an ordinary experiment, it was not an ordinary day. On this day forty homeschool children, ranging in ages from five to thirteen years old packed into an IWU chemistry lab with their parents to watch the many experiments Dr. Brinkman had planned just for them.

Jill (Garner) Steinke '81 approached Dr. Brinkman with the idea for a science day. Ms. Steinke, who homeschools her two children, currently works part-time at IWU as an adjunct nursing professor. 'She asked if I would be willing to do some chemistry experiments for the Homeschool Association of Grant County in May,' Dr. Brinkman said.

As a father who previously homeschooled his two daughters for ten years, Dr. Brinkman knows first-hand the problems with attempting science experiments at home. 'It's one thing to read about experiments and another to see them in action,' Dr. Brinkman said. 'It can be difficult and expensive for a parent to get materials.'

'He piqued the children's interest in science,' Ms. Steinke said. 'It really was positive exposure to chemistry.' "

Well done, Professor Brinkman, and kudos to IWU for sharing their facilities with area home scholars.

2007-07-31T15:15:00.000-02:00

Detroit Democrat Notices Home Education, Etc.

"Education in the city of Detroit cannot continue to be looked at as the Detroit Public Schools only. Our children attend charter schools. Our children attend private schools. Our children attend parochial schools. Our children attend inner-ring suburban schools. There is even an emerging homeschool base growing in our city." - Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick

HT: June issue of Perspective.

2007-07-31T00:00:00.001-02:00

"Schools are for Fish"

This is the tote bag I ordered and received from Inflatable Studios:

For those interested in more fishy gear, please go here.

2007-07-30T00:00:00.000-02:00

Principled? Yes. Sincere? Yes. Conservative? Well ...

The Home School Legal Defense Association's PAC has endorsed Mike Huckabee for president. Not a shocker given that the former Arkansas governor is an ordained Baptist minister, staunch pro-lifer, friend of homeschoolers, and Iraq War supporter. He's even married to his high school sweetheart which given the marital piccadillos of several of the Republican candidates is quite the personal feat.

I met Mr. Huckabee at a party in D.C., several years ago. His band, "Capitol Offense," provided the entertainment. On a whim, I decided to interview him and found him to be an affable man with a sense of humor. A talented musician, too.

But he's auditioning for the role of president as a "principled conservative," not vying for Mr. Congeniality or for a spot on "America's Got Talent." His political positions deserve scrutiny. As I've previously noted, his views on public education are similar to that of Congressman Dennis Kucinich, the left's lefty. Indeed, Mr. Huckabee is a 'for the children' candidate in that expensive, legalistic kind of way. (Scroll down.)

While Attorney Farris may be impressed with the Arkansan's 'secure the borders' rhetoric, Allan Wall sure isn't.

A couple of Paulite bloggers are miffed by HSLDA's choice.

But this we can agree on: Candidates are courting homeschooelrs early in the game.

So, who is going to look our way next? My money's on Rep. Tancredo.

Update: Conressman Duncan Hunter also weighs in on homeschooling. Go down to number 16.

All's fair in love and war: Mike's son, David, is getting noticed. Not Patrick Henry College material, is he?

2007-07-27T01:11:00.000-02:00

Homeschool Dad Authors Book About Classical Education

Dr. Drew Campbell, of western Massachusetts, has written The Latin Centered Curriculum. Published by Memoria Press, the book, among other things, "explains why the central principle behind classical education is the study of Latin and Greek."

Drew earned his doctorate from Washington University (Missouri) in Germanic Literatures and Languages. He has a blog which features a FAQ about the Latin-centered way.

The Lilting House likes the book.

2007-07-26T00:05:00.000-02:00

Tennis Champ Excels in Languages

Lynne, formerly of Berlin (now of Florida), shared a piece of exciting academic news about her homeschooled son. She writes, "Stefan aced the Advanced Placement test in the Italian language this year at age 14. Last year, at age 13, he aced the CLEP test in German. Top scores on these two tests are good for 8 semesters worth of foreign language study at most colleges."

Here's the budding linguist winning the Lake Cane Tennis Tournament in Orlando.

2007-07-26T00:00:00.001-02:00

All Together Now, "It's not FREE!"

Sigh. A homeschool parent is critical of the SoBaptist's education "exit strategy."

Jeannie Babb Taylor has a thing for collectivist, la-la land thinking: " ... the church could reach children even earlier by offering free daycare to the community's children. With free Christian daycare available to all, the majority of area children would learn to pray before they learned to ride a bicycle. They would grow up believing in God. They would be far more likely to attend church and identify with Christ as adults."

Given that this incident occurred in Oklahoma, it's highly likely that the caretakers in question were church-going types. The kind Jeannie has in mind, perhaps?

Two items of interest: Voddie Baucham delivers a "whoa" anti-g-school soundbite, as did the late Jerry Falwell.

Update: The "bless the child" and knock-em-out daycare worker. Go here.

2007-07-25T00:00:00.000-02:00

Legally Blonde Home Scholar Leads Colorado for Equal Rights

I met Kristi Burton two summers ago in Oklahoma City, and she's the epitome of perky. If you like hearing about grassroots activists who are committed to the pro-life cause, you'll enjoy reading this Denver Post piece about Kristi's crusade.

The article, however, makes it seem like Oak Brook is only for homeschoolers (and why do they care if Kristi has a college degree, anyway?). Nope. Mid-career professionals, with no ties to home ed, are also an important part of the 'student body.' The stick-with-it homeschooled kiddos and their remarkable ability to pass the Baby Bar and Bar (like the fella I blogged about on Monday) are a big reason why the school has received well-deserved props from LawTutor.org and is attracting adult learners.

Bit off the subject: Another affordable (but equally as challenging) online law school is Northwestern California University. Phil Maymin, the libertarian writer, is enrolled in NWCULAW's JD (Bar) program. There's also a non-Bar program which is ideal for those who don't aspire to be attorneys.

Back to the topic: Ingrid Schlueter interviews Kristi (and Mark).

The website for CER is here.

2007-07-24T13:00:00.000-02:00

Tami hosts the 82nd Carnival of Homeschooling. She's posted lots of purty state flowers.

2007-07-24T00:00:00.000-02:00

Homeschoolers Back Religious Righter

Underdog presidential hopeful, Senator Sam Brownback (R-Kansas), has added homeschool parents to Team Brownback. Mark and Marie Scherbaum of Iowa are the parents of five children, and they are also serve on the candidate's Faith and Family Leadership Committee.

So notes the press release: "Sam Brownback understands the unique role that parents play in the lives of their children and he believes that parents should have the freedom to homeschool their children," said Marie, a mother of five and member of the Marion Home School Assistance Program. "For years, Senator Brownback has been a consistent advocate of parent's rights and expanded access to educational opportunities for home educators, and there is no better champion than Sam Brownback for the fundamental family values we cherish so dearly."

(Wonder what the "expanded access to educational opportunities for home educators" means.)

In May, Mike Farris asked the Senator a question which revealed his personal ties to home education.

On other issues: The Kansan scored well on the "Freedom Index" but did very poorly on the Americans for Better Immigration report card. Maybe Dr. Paul could assign Sam some homework, also.

2007-07-23T00:00:00.000-02:00

Choosing the Disciplined Way over the Frivolous Way

I just submitted an article to an education publication in which I briefly mention a Minnesota home scholar turned lawyer. Last month Micah Stanley, age 19, learned that he had passed the California general bar exam. He was a student at Oak Brook College of Law who started his legal studies at age 14!

A TV station got in on the fun and interviewed the well-spoken, newly minted attorney who says, "As I was going through law school, there weren't many sacrifices that I had to make ... But those that I did, it was just trading the temporary for the more permanent, in the future. I don't have any regrets."

Micah told me that, for now, he is staying put in Minnesota and is currently finishing up a self-help book: "How to Escape the Holding Tank: A Guide to Help You Get What You Want You Get."

Given what he's pulled off, it could very well become a bestseller. Legal kudos to Micah and his supportive family.

2007-07-20T14:00:00.000-02:00

History from the Vantage Point of the Domestic

Larry shares a neat vignette about Tom Kelley, his great great grandfather who, sadly, lost an arm in a work-related accident but was beloved by Amherst's most famous family - the Dickinsons.

The scrappy Irish grandpa: "Even with only one arm, his work ethic inspired the respect and friendship of the reclusive brilliant poet, who once wrote to her sister Lavinia, after hearing tragic news 'ran to his blue jacket and let my Heart break there - that was the warmest place.'

And after almost 20 years of routine service - including grounds keeping, plumbing, and delivering her letters, poems and gift baskets to the neighborhood - his final act for Miss Emily was the most impressive: To carry her white casket out the back door, acting as Chief Pallbearer along with five other Irish workers, and transport her all the way to West Cemetery."

Photo: Lavinia Dickinson