by Cecilia, Fall ‘23 Intern
Two years ago, I made the decision to leave public school to pursue a classical homeschool education. This was a difficult, but ultimately extremely edifying process. I chose the online homeschooling route: taking classes with online Christian academies. I was very unsure of what to expect when I first began this journey, so I hope this article will offer some clarity and encouragement to those exploring homeschooling, specifically the online option. I will elaborate on the reasoning behind my switch to classical homeschooling, the Orthodox homeschool pedagogy, and its effect on my spiritual life.
Why I started homeschooling
In middle school, I was beginning to experience struggles with my public school’s curriculum, method of teaching, and atmosphere. The direction the school district was heading was alarming–to say the least– and I felt unable to continue being taught in such a secular and progressive manner. The teaching undeniably had an agenda, pushing ideas upon me that I did not agree with as an Orthodox Christian. I was beginning to realize that the aforementioned secular teaching was damaging my spiritual and academic health. I felt a sincere longing for an Orthodox–or at the very least, a Christian–perspective on school subjects, so I decided to completely change my style of schooling. My parents did not force me to make this switch; I decided personally. I am so blessed to have their support through this journey!
Beginning my freshman year in high school, I started online homeschooling, taking classes from two Orthodox schools: Saint Athanasius Academy and Saint Raphael School. I now take classes with Classical Learning Resource Center and Scholé Academy as well. I can earnestly say that this was a life-changing experience, and one I would recommend to anyone struggling with the public school system as I was.
Expectations vs. reality
There are many stereotypes concerning homeschoolers, which may unnerve anyone exploring homeschooling, but let me assure you that most are merely myths! I was extremely worried that I would become the homeschooled kid prototype: awkward, socially unaware, and improperly educated. In reality, I have noticed that homeschoolers are often the opposite of these stereotypes, particularly concerning the notion that they are improperly educated. If anything, homeschoolers explore more subjects and topics than possible in a public school. To address the “socially unaware” misconception, I have found that homeschoolers can pick up a conversation with just about anyone due to their education in so many varying subjects.
In addition to the stereotypes, the prospect of isolation concerned me as well, as I was worried that I would have no community or friendships. In reality, I entered into a much healthier and faithful community when I started homeschooling. I have been able to interact with peers from Saint Emmelia Ministries, my classes, and online school clubs. I have met so many inspiring people and feel very connected, having ample opportunities to socialize, both online and in-person.
Orthodox homeschool pedagogy
The curriculum of my classes has been extremely edifying and nourishing, as we study classical literature and the liberal arts in addition to the standard subjects. In class, we have interactive discussions and debates, leading to more thorough comprehension of subjects. Oftentimes, my public school taught topics in correspondence to what would be on the standardized assessments, which led to my simply memorizing things for a test. On the contrary, in my classical online classes, I have found myself genuinely soaking in knowledge and being able to retain information.
The teachers in these online classical academies educate their students in a manner that allows for the expressing of opinions and points of view. They teach them how to think, not what to think; there is no agenda.
Additionally, homeschooling (particularly through online classes) allows for a smoother transition from high school to college, if one should choose this path after graduating. The schedule I now have is effectively a college schedule, with classes generally running twice a week. Homeschooling calls one to learn time management and take accountability of one’s own homework schedule, which are both vital skills in college.
Spiritual life
The flexibility of my schedule has allowed me to be more actively involved in the Church’s feast days and lenten services, which was something very difficult to do when I was public-schooled. Moreover, my teachers’ and classmates’ zeal for the faith has been very inspiring and formative. I am so blessed to receive an Orthodox Christian foundation in my learning! In every class, we start and end with a prayer, which may seem insignificant, but makes a substantial difference in our learning. It allows our minds to acknowledge and concentrate on the reason behind learning: to grow in the knowledge of God’s creation, beauty, and greatness. Orthodox online academies also offer Catechism classes, which have increased my knowledge of the Saints, Church history, and Orthodox theology.
The atmosphere of an Orthodox homeschool classroom is very spiritually nourishing, as the students are taught to glorify God in all things; this has prompted me to genuinely see God in every subject.
Switching from public school to online classical homeschooling has been a transformative experience. Learning and discussing every subject with Orthodox Christianity at its base has truly reshaped my perspective on the world, the arts, and my faith.