And so it ends...

Homeschooling isn't ending for our whole family, but Bee has decided to make the transition to public high school, preferably a magnet program.  We've really struggled with structure since school has started, and he wants to be around more people.  I am feeling stretched too thin.  My husband and I went to our high school reunion this summer, and I think that got Bee thinking that he didn't want to miss that experience. 

I'm happy and relieved about the whole thing, to be honest.  He was supposed to be doing 9th grade this year, but he's a relatively young 9th grader, and my husband suggested that the best thing would be for him to apply to the magnet programs as an 8th grader this year, to avoid complications with trying to apply as a transfer student from homeschool.  To my surprise, Bee was amenable to this.  He can still go to college if he wants to on time because we have dual credit options, but he doesn't have to.  I am happy about this choice because I think he needs the additional year to mature.  I think he will be extremely well prepared for a magnet program or honors classes in the coming school year. 

So, this year will be focused on planning and study skills for Bee, as well as continued academic development.  And next year, I will only be home schooling Bug!  (Dot will still be too young to be in school.) 

This has also made me think about Dot.  She is a May birthday, and I think I will have her start "kindergarten" at age 6 and keep her a year back.  And then if she wasnts to accelerate in middle/high school, she can have that option.  One thing I've finally learned in my 14.5 years as a parent is this:  Don't rush!!! 

EDITED TO ADD: Three semesters later, a new beginning; we brought our Bee back to homeschool!