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Home-schooling may 'teach' sectarian animosity

Home-schooling may 'teach' sectarian animosity

Date published: 4/7/2004

I read with some sadness the story on the growing trend in home schooling in the area ["Home-schooling extension: Parents form private school for upper-grade education," March 29].

I don't think anyone can argue the benefits that home schooling provides (one-on-one attention, self-paced learning, more creative options, safety), but I am concerned about the growing chasm between the different cultures, religions, and socioeconomic groups that I see not only in our community, but also in our world at large.

Do we no longer value the importance of exposing our children to those who are different than they are? How do we learn the lessons of tolerance and understanding otherwise? I don't accept that religion has to be taught in schools. I am more than capable of teaching my son my religious views at home. I am not threatened by his being exposed to those who believe differently.

This is how I hope he will learn not only understanding another's point of view, but he will also hone those important critical thinking skills that are learned when one's world is juxtaposed against another's.

Have we learned nothing from the hatred that so many cultures around the world harbor for Americans now? Shall we build more walls around our children to completely incapacitate their ability to deal with this when they are our nation's leaders?

Gina Martin

Hartwood

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Date published: 4/7/2004