August is typically when vacations are wrapping up and we are gearing up for a new school year, typically. This year, however, has been anything but typical. Plans for the 2020-2021 school year look different as our state continues to respond to the pandemic. School districts and parents shoulder a heavy responsibility evaluating what this school year will look like. I encourage you to pray for the leaders of our schools who are trying to make the best possible plan for their students and staff. I’m so grateful for the godly teachers and administrators who serve in the schools across our state and nation. What an opportunity we have to shine for Jesus by choosing to pray for and encourage for our teachers and administrators as they walk through this time.
I also recommend that you intercede for parents as they are deciding if their children will attend school on campus, virtual school or homeschool. If you are that parent, ask God to give you guidance about the decisions you will make for your children. God has given you one of the highest calls – that of raising children. As James 1:5 and Isaiah 30:21 remind us, God will equip you and guide you as you seek him. There’s no cookie-cutter response. We just need to have a dependence on the Lord to follow his lead for your family.
Whether you’re processing the school’s new protocols or considering the option of homeschool, change is involved. Change can bring excitement, but it can also create stress and fear. God’s word is again the best source for the path through these uncharted waters. The words the Lord spoke to Joshua are also for you,
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Another way God encourages us is through other believers. He intends us to do life in a community of believers who can encourage and offer support. When God led us to teach our children at home over 13 years ago, I remember my thoughts: What if…? Do I have the patience? Can give them what they need? Can I really teach my own kids? But God gave me a network of people to help me on this journey and he has guided me through each step, much like the Christian walk.
If you’re a parent exploring homeschool, I’d like to offer some encouragement through an article written by a retired homeschool teacher, Laura Taylor, https://sbtexas.com/caring-for-kids-covid-19.
Additionally through researching and talking with others, you’ll discover many methods and curriculum resources. As you’re considering what will best meet the needs of your children, here is a brief list of some curricula/publishers to help you get started: Sonlight, Bob Jones, Abeka, My Father’s World, Apologia, Wallbuilders, Drive Thru History, Answers in Genesis, Math U See, Teaching Textbooks, A Reason for Spelling, Sequential Spelling, Liberty Online Academy, and Alpha Omega Academy.
Remember, God has a plan for your family. Whatever decision he leads you to make in regards to school, obey him! Don’t let fear keep you from the blessings God has for your family and the opportunity to bring him glory!
