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This article is from Today's
Native Father, issue #105, September/October, 1999. Related articles
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"Schooling
is Parents' Job," says dad by David Hertzler |
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"I can tell you all about Canada,” boasts nine-year-old Jeremiah. Then he proceeds to back up his claim by reciting facts about the CN Tower and Niagara Falls. Jeremiah’s parents, Barry and Nikki Chabluk, decided three years ago to start a homeschool for their children. They based the decision on their belief that the Bible shows schooling to be the job of parents, not the system. They were also unhappy with the ways in which Jeremiah was being asked by his public school to celebrate Halloween, Christmas and other holidays. In addition, Barry was inspired by observing the respect and obedience of a friend’s 21-year-old son who had been homeschooled. Jeremiah and his sister Hannah (6) have a regular schedule of studies in the family’s basement schoolroom. There are also kindergarten activities for Rachel (3). Barry and Nikki have planned the school day to be as much like “regular school” as possible. “It’s not easy,” says Nikki, who does most of the supervision while Barry fills his shift at the paper mill. “Before Jonathan (3 months) came during the March break, it was the extra work of carrying the baby. Then it was the extra work of caring for him. Homeschooling is a 24-hour job. But it’s worth the effort.” A major advantage for the family is that the home- school permits them to travel any time of the year, taking their school work with them. Already the children have been to Toronto, Georgia and other places full of memories. These trips not only enhance their education. They also provide rewards for work well done. “Public school is always a pull,” says Barry. “They have computers and other attractive technology that we can’t provide. Sometimes John 3:16 just can’t compete. But we believe this is the best way to pass on our values to our children.” The Chabluks are grateful for their local public school principal, who gives legal oversight to their home school and has helped them find ways of meeting Ontario curriculum standards. While acknowledging that a home school may be too much for some parents, Barry adds, “We know one single mother who home schools five children. But she has very strong support from her church. We believe that with discipline, sacrifice, willingness to work hard and set priorities, and strong church support, more parents could do it.” Barry and Nikki Chabluk live in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Nikki is of Ojibway descent. |
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