San Antonio Home Educator Profile:
Melanie

Want to know what real home educators look like in the San Antonio Area?  The following is a brief overview of one San Antonio homeschoolers. Her real name is not used to protect her privacy.

How long have you been homeschooling?
This is my second year.

How many children do you have? 
Two.

Do you homeschool them all?
Yes

What are their ages?
11 and 9

Why did you decide to homeschool?
My son was having difficulty in school after I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  The school put him in ISS and wanted us to put him on medication. He was just looking for reassurance from the teachers--he would ask for help with some of his work by asking to go to the learning lab and they said no. They have a learning lab for special ed kids but didn't want to let him it.

Did you try public/private school?
Yes, both

What has been the hardest thing about homeschooling?
Not having TIME to my self however, I've learned to find the time

What has been the best thing about homeschooling?
Getting to know my kids.

Do you use a set curriculum?
No

What kind of curriculum do you use? 
I do a classical curriculum that I made up not one that I purchased.

What do you wish you had known when you first started homeschooling?
How much support is out there and the opportunities for the kids and moms.

Are you a part of a homeschool support group or coop? Has it been useful for you?
No

What would your advice be to someone considering homeschooling?
JUST DO IT!!!

What has been your experience in preparing/sending a homeschooler to college?
Nothing at this point                                                                        

Explain your family circumstances:
Married 20 years to Will. Two children Kyle and Katy, two dogs, and one cat.  At this time I'm not working or going to school, I'm back in treatment for breast cancer. 

Give a typical week of homeschooling for your family.
Monday: Odyssey of the Mind
Tuesday: school in the morning fencing and gymnastics in the afternoon
Wednesday: school in the morning, chess in the park in the afternoon
Thursday: school in the morning, fencing in the afternoon
Friday: school in the morning, girls scouts in the afternoon.