By: Julia Bennett
Updated: September 30, 2023
Originally Published: September 30, 2023
In recent weeks, another tragic school shooting occurred, this time in my region. The community was shaken when a shooting at Maple Valley Elementary resulted in the deaths of two students and one teacher. The perpetrator, a teenager, also fatally shot his father before carrying out the attack. After the incident, he was subdued by a local volunteer and subsequently taken into custody by law enforcement. This event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present in today’s educational environments.
For me, this incident was a significant factor in deciding to homeschool my children. I fully acknowledge that homeschooling is not feasible for everyone; those with demanding jobs or single parents often face challenges that make this choice difficult. It requires resources, time, and often the presence of a dedicated caregiver, of which I am fortunate to have.
My partner works as a public school teacher and participates in detailed safety drills that include securing doors and ensuring no one enters during a lockdown. These drills are becoming commonplace, even for younger students. A recent viral image captured a preschooler practicing active shooter protocols, leading her mother to reflect on the loss of her child’s innocence.
Experts, such as Joe Miller, who trains students in active shooter response, emphasize that even young children can be taught to act by throwing objects to distract an intruder. However, the thought of my children being asked to engage a shooter is unfathomable.
While safety concerns are not the only reason for our homeschooling decision, they play a pivotal role. The frequency of mass shootings has escalated dramatically; research shows that incidents have tripled since 2011, with averages now occurring every 64 days. Reports from Everytown document numerous firearm-related incidents, including fatal and nonfatal events within school environments. I cannot accept the risk of my children becoming part of these statistics.
Moreover, my youngest son struggles with the anxiety these drills induce. While my oldest may brush them off, my middle child, Max, becomes consumed with fear. He asks countless questions about the potential for violence in schools, leading to sleepless nights and increased anxiety. Homeschooling alleviates these pressures, allowing us to foster a more supportive learning environment.
Our reasons for homeschooling extend beyond safety. We reject the standardized testing culture prevalent in many American schools. With my background in education, I prefer to teach historical narratives that are more nuanced and representative. At home, we enjoy the flexibility to explore subjects that ignite our children’s interests, such as my six-year-old’s fascination with astronomy, particularly dark matter. Each child learns at their own pace, free from the pressure of standardized benchmarks.
In conclusion, while the fear of school shootings significantly influences our decision to homeschool, it is one of many factors. The alarming rise in violence in educational settings is a reality we cannot ignore. Our children’s safety remains paramount, and homeschooling offers a path that minimizes their exposure to such dangers.
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Summary:
The decision to homeschool is heavily influenced by the fear of school shootings, which have become alarmingly frequent in recent years. This choice also allows for a more tailored educational experience that prioritizes individual interests and learning paces, while also addressing safety concerns.
Keyphrase: Homeschooling safety
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