If you have any problems unsubscribing, please see further instructions at the bottom of this edition of Streetmail. Don't be a scrooge. Across the state, parents dissatisfied with the state system are choosing to involve themselves actively in their children's education through homeschooling. It's a trend that worries some educators. A study from the University of Tennessee suggests that homeschooling has become extremely popular in Tennessee over the past ten years, perhaps even surpassing private school enrollment as the most popular alternative to traditional, public school education.
Some parents choose homeschooling because it is less expensive than private instruction.
Actually, there are stringent state guidelines for parents wishing to organize their own home schools. There are also many local and regional organizations dedicated to bringing homeschooling parents and children together to make the homeschooling experience positive and enriching for everyone involved. Personally, I think homeschooling is a fine alternative to traditional education for those who have the time and the dedication. Make sure you include your full name and town, and then check next week's issue for a summary and samples of Volunteer State views. I'm going to send your thoughts along to Gov. Don Sundquist and to Deputy Commissioner Mark Reynolds.