School Daze

This year Coco is a student of The Florida Virtual School (and has been since kindergarten). When we were still at home, on land, it was the best fit for her and our family. Flexible, but still traditional. 

Now... Not so much. For several reason:

1- We have to have an Internet connection on a pretty regular basis. This usually isn't a problem, but in the event that it is, it effects what and how Coco gets her info. 

2- Because of #1 we aren't able to move around the way we would like. Every Monday we have to be still and connected. 

3- The curriculum is designed in much the same way as a brick and mortar classroom. For some that works , for us, not really. There have been so many times this school year, especially now living aboard, that actual real life learning opportunities have presented themselves... But we had to log in, or it wouldn't fit into our day because of what was required. 

4- The above requirements don't always really apply.  For example, Coco is an avid reader... More so than most adults. So, when I'm testing her on 2nd grade phonics, we both get a little frustrated. It's a total waste of time. 

Other times~ its not enough. This mostly occurs in Science and Social Studies. The unit is over before it even gets started and its time to move on. 

The curriculum is a one size fits all, but it no longer fits us. 

(Coco doing an online presentation... Monday requirements)

Next year I am going to approach it a lot differently. There are some subjects we will purchase (math) and others we won't (probably science and social studies). There are so many opportunities for real, practical, life-experience learning that is completely applicable with 'school standards'. 

I'm super excited about it too. The possibilities are endless.