Should I homeschool my rising 9th grader? Need to decide soon!

April 4, 2010

Hello Everyone,

Let me re-introduce myself. I'm Patti, from land. I have 2 sons, 5 and 13.

The older one is nearing the end (finally!) of a school-requested assessment to

see if he is on the Spectrum.

The school wanted him assessed because he has not made any friends, and gets

anxious in class sometimes-- sometimes to the point of tears. We had previously

homeschooled, so this year (8th grade) was his first time in school since

kindergarten.

Despite his issues, he likes school and gets along with his classmates. His

school is very small and supportive. Even more essential, I get 75% off tuition

for both boys because I teach in the elementary program.

Here's the problem-- my husband and I recently separated. He wants to file for

divorce immediately. He also does not want to pay private school tuition-- even

at the reduced rate. My lawyer says he can't be made to pay for private school,

UNLESS, possibly, ds is diagnosed with HFA or similar. Then the judge MIGHT

rule that he needs to stay in his small, familiar school. I cannot pay for

private school by myself. I'm extremely frugal, and still struggle to pay the

rent and put food on the table.

So, I'm considering homeschooling my 13 year old for 9th grade. I can't quit my

job, so this would entail me being at work (7:30-4:30), little brother being at

school, and the 13 year old home by himself.

He's trustworthy to stay by himself, but I know he'd just sleep or be on the

computer all day. There are no hs'ing families in our area with kids anywhere

near his age, so a co-op is out. Our area is also not conducive to a young teen

getting to activities by himself, so he'd be stuck in the house (or at least in

the neighborhood) until I got home to give him rides (I might be able to get

help from SAHM friends on this point).

I worry he'd be lonely and isolated, and he's already shy and socially awkward

enough!

Just to make matters worse, enrollment is next week! I need to figure this out

fast. I'd appreciate any wisdom you have! Thanks.

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