Educational Disobedience™: FAQ on Homeschooling and Homeschool Cooperatives
General Questions
Educational Disobedience™ started as the memoir of Dr. Annise Mabry, a homeschool mom who takes readers on a thought-provoking exploration of the transformative power of homeschooling. Drawing from her own experiences as an educator turned homeschool advocate as well as the stories from the students graduated as homeschool graduates, Dr. Mabry sheds light on the systemic challenges within traditional education systems and offers a compelling argument for educational disobedience as a means to achieve academic success.
The book delves into the reasons why many students, particularly those from marginalized communities, struggle within conventional school settings. Dr. Mabry discusses how rigid structures, educational biases, and lack of individualized attention can hinder student potential. She shares powerful narratives of families who have opted out of traditional schooling in favor of homeschooling, sharing the positive outcomes of those decisions, and highlighting their journey to becoming a high school graduate.
The book then became a movement for education reform, homeschool awareness, and ultimately homeschool graduate acceptance. It advocates for personalized learning, critical thinking, and empowering parents and students to take control of their educational journeys, including through homeschooling and cooperative learning environments.
Dr. Annise Mabry is an educator, advocate, and founder of The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation. She specializes in alternative education and community engagement, with a focus on creating inclusive and empowering learning opportunities.
Educational Disobedience workshops combine a homeschool information session with strategic planning to identify community needs.
Homeschooling Questions
Homeschooling is an educational approach where parents or guardians take primary responsibility for educating their children at home. It allows for a customized learning experience tailored to the child's needs, interests, and learning pace.
Homeschooling offers several benefits, including personalized learning, flexibility in scheduling, the ability to incorporate diverse educational philosophies, and opportunities for experiential learning. It can also provide a safe and supportive environment for children with special needs or those facing challenges in traditional school settings.
Legal requirements for homeschooling vary by state or country. Parents typically need to notify educational authorities of their intent to homeschool, comply with attendance and curriculum standards, and maintain records of their child’s progress. It is important to research and understand the specific regulations in your area.
Choosing a curriculum involves considering your child's learning style, interests, and educational goals. Research various homeschooling philosophies and resources, such as Classical, Montessori, or Unschooling, and select a curriculum that aligns with your values and objectives.
Peer interaction can be achieved through extracurricular activities, sports, clubs, and community events. Joining local homeschooling groups or cooperatives can provide additional opportunities for your child to interact with peers and participate in group activities.
Homeschool Cooperative Questions
A homeschool cooperative, or co-op, is a group of homeschooling families who come together to share resources, organize group learning activities, and support one another. Co-ops can offer classes, field trips, and social events, providing a collaborative learning environment for children.
Joining a co-op can enhance the homeschooling experience by providing access to diverse teaching expertise, group learning opportunities, and social interaction. It also offers parents support, resources, and a sense of community.
To find a co-op, start by joining local homeschooling groups online, attending homeschooling events, and networking with other homeschooling families. Many communities have established co-ops that welcome new members, and you can also explore online resources and directories.
Co-ops typically operate through a collaborative effort among participating families. Parents may volunteer to teach classes, organize activities, or contribute in other ways. Co-ops can vary in size, structure, and focus, so it is important to find one that aligns with your educational goals and values.
If existing co-ops do not meet your needs, consider starting your own. Reach out to other homeschooling families with similar interests, define your goals and structure, and collaborate to create a co-op that suits your educational objectives.
Additional Resources
- Books and Articles: Read books and articles about homeschooling philosophies and co-op structures.
- Online Communities: Join online forums and social media groups focused on homeschooling and co-ops.
- Local Libraries: Utilize resources at your local library for educational materials and guides.
- The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation: Visit the Foundation’s website for resources, support, and community engagement opportunities.
For more information about Educational Disobedience™ and related topics, you can contact Dr. Annise Mabry through her Foundation’s website or follow her on social media for updates and insights.