Each week, we spotlight a unique family from A One-Room Schoolhouse, sharing their homeschooling journey, favorite traditions, and experiences with our hybrid model. Whether you’re curious about homeschooling or already part of our community, “Friday Family” offers inspiring stories, practical tips, and a peek into the lives of families who value education, flexibility, and quality family time. Join us every Friday to meet a new family and discover how AORSH can enrich your child’s learning experience!
Journey with A One-Room Schoolhouse
Family Friday Facts
The Sharma family is a vibrant and adventurous group of six, consisting of four spirited daughters aged 12, 10, 7, and nearly 5. They share a passion for travel and exploration, delighting in road trips, international journeys, and discovering new parks, beaches, museums, and theaters. The Sharmas also enjoy trying diverse cuisines, making every trip a culinary adventure.
All four girls are dedicated members of year-round swim teams, showcasing their commitment and enthusiasm for the sport. In addition to swimming, they are exploring new interests, including gymnastics and piano lessons, further enriching their extracurricular activities. The family’s journey with A One-Room Schoolhouse (AORSH) began with their eldest daughter, and they have since observed remarkable progress in her confidence and academic achievements, particularly in reading and math.
Educational Choices
As a family with four young children and two working parents, the Sharmas faced significant challenges in considering homeschooling. Initially, they enrolled their children in a private school that emphasized hands-on learning, time in nature, foreign languages, culture, and diversity. However, high tuition costs and a shift towards political agendas during the COVID-19 pandemic prompted them to seek an alternative educational environment.
Their subsequent experience at a classical education school was marred by excessive worksheets, tests, and a stressful environment. The pressure of memorization, testing, and homework led to significant depression in their eldest child, exacerbated by a lack of recess and the high financial burden.
Discovering AORSH was a turning point for the Sharma family. They found a community that met their educational needs and values, including:
- Hands-On Learning
- Time in Nature
- Cultural Emphasis
- Academic Rigor without Tears
- Foreign Language Instruction
- Community Engagement
- Affordability
- Parental Involvement
Experience with A One-Room Schoolhouse
AORSH has been more than just a school for the Sharma family; it’s a unique and cherished experience for their children. The school offers a nurturing environment where children can explore their interests and passions away from the pressures of modern social standards. The family particularly enjoys the serene and beautiful surroundings of the central campus, which enhances their daily commute and sets a positive tone for the school day.
The challenging curriculum at AORSH allows for personalized learning, enabling each child to succeed at their own pace while also engaging with peers of the same age group. The Sharma family appreciates the flexibility to place their children at appropriate levels to ensure comprehension and mastery of subjects.
One of the highlights of their experience has been the Thursday field trips. These outings are not only educational but also offer a chance for the children to learn outside the classroom in a hands-on setting, guided by experts. These experiences have been invaluable in fostering a deeper understanding of various subjects.
Personal Insights
The Sharma family believes that each educational path—public, private, or homeschooling—comes with its own set of challenges. However, they have found that the hybrid model at AORSH offers the best of multiple worlds. This approach allows them to actively participate in their children’s education while benefiting from the support of trained teachers. It provides a balanced environment where their children can grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
For the Sharmas, the commitment to AORSH signifies a dedication to their children’s holistic development. They appreciate the values instilled by the school and the supportive community it fosters. Witnessing their children’s personal growth and happiness has been a source of immense pride and satisfaction.
The Sharma family expresses their gratitude to Genevieve and all those who work tirelessly to build and sustain the A One-Room Schoolhouse community. They are thankful for the positive impact AORSH has had on their family’s educational journey and look forward to many more enriching experiences.
Interested in the A One-Room Schoolhouse?
Due to adding a classroom this year, we have a could of spots for students in grades 4 and up at our North Hills campus and at our Plum campus. Click here for the application.
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