5 Points Students of Color and Their Families Must Consider
Homeschooling in New York is not a new phenomenon, it has been there for decades. Parents often might be dissatisfied with the education system and the kind of treatment or socialization their children attract at school. These experiences majorly inform the decision to home-school for most black parents.
Before the pandemic, only 6% of homeschooling was done by the African American communities. However, the idea of schooling children at home has risen since the spike of Covid-19. Currently, black homeschoolers have risen to 10 percent since the pandemic.
However, what does it take to really home school a black student in New York? Read on to find out the top 5 things to consider when homeschooling students of color.
Compliance with New York Home Schooling Legislation
Compliance with all governing legislation in New York state tops the list. Homeschooling is allowed in all 50 states but the laws that guide this process differ from one state to another. Homeschooling in New York state demands that any parent who wishes to home school should write an intent letter to the school district involved within 14 days, record-keeping is vital to track the progress of your child’s education, and communicating the same for your quarterly assessment.
In addition, homeschooling graduation forms are mandatory for all home-schooled children in New York. Graduation forms are needed when seeking to join a college. It is prudent to have all the documentation ready and available for your children.
Lastly, should you wish to transfer to a public school; homeschooling records should be provided to involved public schools to help understand your child’s education level and needs.
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Establishing a Fitting Curriculum
Being compliant with all homeschooling legislation in New York state will not be enough. There are ‘stickler’ subjects parents are mandated to include in the curriculum. Though parents may find this too conventional, the only practical way out is try getting creative with your child’s curriculum at this point.
For instance, between grades 9-12, students are taught American history, be creative here, and delve deep into African American history. take your child to the National African American Museum. This approach will compel your child to be deeply rooted in black origins and also appreciate the sacrifices black ancestors made.
Integrate a more practical curriculum, like coding or designing to keep your child more engaged, while nurturing their creativity and adding more future-oriented skills.
Signing up to a Sports Facility
Sporting activities play a significant role in all students’ development and particularly so, students from a marginalized background. Not only does this give them an opportunity to find a sport they can explore as a hobby, but also to interact and share with their peers and to get energy out.
Rather than being confined to the house all the time, students can be signed up to a community sports facility. Even better signing them up to a black sports community, where the concern around discrimination would be minimal.
Sporting activities contribute to students’ fitness and health, reading every day can be tiresome. Having a sports break will do a lot of good while also keeping them active and energized for the daily program.
Time for Relaxation and Meditation
Black students get tired, not only physically but especially mentally. Due to their subjection to harsh societal issues, especially discrimination among other disparities. It is prudent to consider having time and a place where they get to unplugged, relax and analyze the experience.
Meditation will significantly improve black students’ mental strength, lower stress levels, and allow them to function effectively. This is also an opportunity to bond more with your son or daughter. Get to understand their pain points, talk through issues, rejuvenate and get back stronger to the designed curriculum.
The homeschooling process and required legislation are quite stressful. That is why finding time to unwind and reflect is necessary.
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Incorporate Volunteerism Activities
Homeschooling for black children should consider a holistic approach. This approach prepares them to be responsible and reliable within and beyond the community. Signing them up for volunteering programs within the community is recommendable. Volunteering helps them stay in touch and connected to the daily happenings of society.
Volunteering activities help them learn the values of humanity earlier on in life and this will help them as they grow up into adulthood. This program, also helps them to enjoy every process of their homeschooling schedule.
Ready to Join the Movement?
Once you’re fully compliant with all homeschooling requirements in New York state; then you are ready to elevate your children’s education. Be fully present and active in your child’s education and development by guiding them in the direction you believe is right for them.
What are your thoughts on homeschooling black children? If you are already homeschooling your kids, what are your experiences thus far? Please let us know in the comments.
