Mother knows best

There was a recent debate here on the virtues and vices of homeschool. I used to hold similar views as Mrs. Dubb, however after my kids entered public school my views changed. Once they are in the public system your kids are no longer your own. I recently received a letter from our school because they claim McKenna has more than 5 unexcused absenses (which I disagree with but cannot fight because of their "no tolerance" policies). In their letter they said, "Please be aware that following your child's sixth unexcused absence, F* County School system may refer your case to the Solicitar-General's office for prosecution. Our office will then prosecute your case according to the law." The consequences of such prosecution could result in a $100 fine, imprisionenment up to 30 days, community service, and Deprivation/Educational Neglect charges filed in Juvenile Court (where they could take our kids away). I understand that schools need to have policies that protect kids from deadbeat parents who are too lazy to get them to school, but I am obviously not one of them and should not be threatened in such a manner. I believe that stewardship for my kids is MINE, not the school systems, and that I should have the right to determine what is best for my kids. According to school policy I could be thrown in jail if my kids missed school for a family vacation. And the attendance policy is just the tip of the iceberg. I am grateful for all of the people who currently contribute to my children's education. I love their teachers and appreciate the time and energy they invest into my children. I do not, however, appreciate being made the enemy by unreasonable school policies. In a perfect world administrators and parents would work together to ensure the best education for our children, and hopefully as I continue to be present and vocal in my children's schools the administration will come to that realization, but for now it is a source of major frustration. I prefer public education, but in order to reclaim my kids I sometimes consider homeschool.