I appreciated the Dec. 9 Maine Monitor article, “Homeschooling is growing in Maine. Here’s what that looks like.”

Missing, though, was a thorough description of home schooling, its good outcomes and the support for it in Maine established by law.

Maine’s home school students can use their local schools to take the same courses as enrolled students, for example science with labs — which may be difficult to do at home — or any other course. They can also do athletics, art, drama and clubs.

The biggest difference with “regular” schooling is that home schooling is based on mastery of the subject matter before moving forward. This allows students to fully understand the material and progress at their own pace. The impact of missing critical lessons, due to absences and interruptions, is averted. This is very helpful.

In a home school, there is freedom of choice within basic academic guidelines from the state. Today, there are many good curriculum options available. Different learning styles can be honored and content areas pursued. Home school guidance, home school groups and co-ops exist in many areas and access to the local schools — with all that they have to offer is right there, thanks to Maine’s support for education.

Home schooling is very demanding, full time, and takes a lot of work. This is not possible for many families. For those who can manage it, it is a successful method of educating children — with the added reward of spending time with them.

George Lawson
Gorham