EPISODES
What happens when a dedicated special education teacher realizes the system she works in isn't what she wants for her own children? In this revealing conversation, Terry shares her remarkable journey from classroom teacher to homeschooling mother of four (soon to be five).
Growing up as a first-generation Mexican-American, Terry was raised believing that college education and professional success were the ultimate goals. She dutifully followed this path, becoming a special education teacher for five years in Arizona. Yet what she witnessed behind the scenes – from rigid behavioral expectations to concerning pandemic responses – gradually shifted her perspective on public education.
Making the leap to homeschooling wasn't easy. Terry and her husband took the dramatic step of relocating across the country to South Carolina, significantly downsizing their lifestyle to survive on a single income. Despite her educational background, she still battled self-doubt about teaching her own children – a sentiment many homeschooling parents will recognize.
The rewards have been profound. Her children have thrived away from the pressures of traditional schooling. Her son, once labeled a ”class clown,” now focuses better on academics without constant social distractions. Her daughter, who experienced testing anxiety even in kindergarten, has rediscovered the joy of learning. Perhaps most beautifully, the family has grown closer through shared daily experiences, including welcoming a new baby.
Terry doesn't shy away from discussing the practical challenges – from curriculum choices to balancing the needs of multiple children at different levels. She shares her approach to finding community through library meetups and church connections, and her thoughts on preparing for the high school years ahead.
Whether you're considering homeschooling, already on the journey, or simply curious about educational alternatives, this conversation offers valuable perspective from someone who's seen both sides of the educational divide. As Terry reflects, ”You're never going to regret having that time with your children.”
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