MANGROVE REALTY ASSOCIATES
Lori Madden, MANGROVE REALTY ASSOCIATESPhone: (941) 780-8443
Email: [email protected]

Custom Fit Education

by Lori Madden 08/18/2019

Homeschooling has been a growing educational option in the last decade or so. The possibilities for homeschooling at all grade levels have significantly increased in recent years due to both demand and easy access to the internet. Although each state differs on the guidelines and requirements for students, homeschoolers have a lot of choices on how they get their educational requirements fulfilled. 

Independent Homeschooling

Traditional homeschooling usually constitutes that you provide not only all the curriculum but also the instruction and schedule. When you chose this method, you are considered completely independent. You will need to file minimal paperwork with the local school district. Check the state's requirement on what to submit and when. The cost of learning materials, electives, and field trips are up to you with this educational option. There is a lot of customization available in this way of schooling. Your student can progress through subjects that really spark their interest and take extra time when an area takes a bit more effort to understand. Record keeping and transcripts are your responsibility for each of your student(s). 

Public School Online 

Many school districts are offering online learning either through individual districts or state level. Your student is considered a public-school student and all learning materials are provided by the program. If your student(s) are enrolled with the local school district, there is usually one day a week of face to face interaction. You student will most likely check in with an advisor teacher and go over the weekly assignments be able to ask any questions and clarify the next tasks. There is also a chance to meet and interact with other online students. During these on-campus days, electives are offered to allow students to explore additional areas of study. If you choose the online option that is overseen at the state level, your student will then check in with an instructor via email, phone call or video chat at scheduled intervals or when your student requests assistance. Field trips are often offered by regions and provide for students to meet each other and learn together. 

More Choices the Better

No matter what options you choose the flexibility for today’s students are on the grow. Try to keep in mind your student’s learning style. One size does not fit even within a household so take your time and find what will work for your family environment and each individual student. Remember that whatever school district you live in also affords your student with organized sports that they can participate. 

So take some time and research what your local school district offers as far as off-campus learning, you may be surprised at the variety that is out there.

About the Author
Author

Lori Madden

As a Florida native growing up in Sarasota, I have seen my hometown grow from a sleepy coastal town to a highly sought-after destination along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. After working in Chicago for 5 years, I returned to Sarasota and saw it through a new lens and really began to appreciate what makes Sarasota so desirable, including temperatures that allow for year round outdoor activities including tennis (a personal favorite), golf, boating, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, or just relaxing and/or shelling on our pristine sandy shores, including Dr. Beach’s #1 beach in the United States for 2017, Siesta Key! Sarasota’s cultural amenities are many and diverse, appealing to a wide range of arts lovers. Downtown Sarasota has become a destination in itself, drawing many new developments for those who want to be within walking distance of Main Street's offerings and the picturesque bayfront and marina. Foodies will find an eclectic mix of locally owned and operated restaurants offering something for everyone, and there are now Farmers Markets every day of the week in various locations throughout Sarasota, but the Saturday morning Farmers Market in downtown Sarasota draws the biggest crowds. Since 1988, my passion has been selling real estate, representing both buyers and sellers. I have been recognized by my clients and customers for an uncompromising work ethic and dedication to helping them achieve their real estate goals. Relying on my experience as a real estate paralegal and being highly organized, I am able to help make the transition between contract and closing a smooth one for my clients. With an eye for interior and landscape design, I've been known to pitch in and help Sellers minimize and/or reorganize their belongings in order to stage their home to maximize its sale potential. I specialize in out of state buyers looking for their piece of paradise along the Gulf Coast and make it a priority to keep them up to date on our quickly changing local real estate market. I welcome the opportunity to share with you all Sarasota and her surrounding islands have to offer!