After rearranging and cleaning the family room, I sat down to work on my 15 year olds transcripts and portfolio for the year.  Once again I was amazed by the non-standardized.....standardized requirements.  For example,  Georgia has just "upped" their credit requirements for their HS students again....now requiring 4 maths, 4 sciences and 3 foreign language I believe.  However, they continue to be one of the lowest ranking states, ranking 48th in SAT scores.  In Colorado, they have just "upped" their requirements to just three maths, three sciences and just now 2 foreign language I THINK, and yet, they currently rank 17 in SAT scores. However, Jordan's portfolio will be reviewed in Maine and the requirements for a HS diploma from that state are completely different yet again.

     Of course, since we live in Colorado, I will be sure that my 15 year old completes all requirements for this state as well as any college that he is interested in attending....but, I'm trying to make a point.  The point being.....requirements for a HS diploma vary from state to state and in some cases, from school district to school district within that state.  From looking at the way the standardized test scores vary from state to state, it looks like the requirements for a HS diploma have very little to do with how well the students do on their standardized testing.

    In my humble opinion, these facts make a great supporting argument for individualizing the approach to a child's education to meet HIS specific needs rather than teaching to the masses or the lowest OR highest common denominator.  It also is a great supporting argument for home schoolers who wish to study their child.....and to walk a path that may be different from those around us who are more than happy to share their opinion about OUR children with us.  We cannot be driven by fear of "requirements"....each child is unique and must be taught according to his "bend", gifts and weaknesses.

    This "individualized" approach takes time to really know your child......to find what works best for your child, and to listen to your child.  I would love to hear some comments from some of you on ways you have found that have helped you to individualize your approach to teaching your children. Perhaps you have had some individuals discourage you from this approach.....perhaps you have caved to "fear" from time to time...perhaps you are finding joy in the journey.  Whatever the case...we would love to hear from you on teaching to the Heart of your child.

Faith and Courage,

Lori

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