Saturday, December 22, 2012

Penelope Trunk said my little video describes "something huge about the world that this is the bleeding edge of education reform." And the thing is, she's right. The video is simplistic and amateurish and no
big deal. Its just a bunch of moms conveying love and tips for homeschooling. Made by someone who mostly just wanted to learn how to make a slide show.

But homeschooling is the bleeding edge of education reform. Its a movement run mostly by mothers and its the very most radical thing I've ever been involved with. The irony, that radical change comes from hearth and home, is rich. The other irony, that education reform is predominantly driven by two opposing forces: conservative Christians and free thinking hipsters, is wonderful.

Most of the best things happening today are radical, ironic, and driven by a mixed community of Christians and hipsters: homebirth, homeschool, and home dairies. Perhaps when people who are driven to the fringes of society begin to notice what really works well in the world, and find common contact there, the rest of the world really should stop. 

Pay attention. We've found a way that works. Its cheaper, faster, lovelier, simpler, and it works better. And surprise of all surprises, not only is it the opposite of what they tell you in school, you find it at home for less money with your Mother!

3 comments:

  1. yes, yes, yes

    and the same is true of food....where radical right wing NRA members and local hippy farmers meet over local, organic, free range and home-grown.

    Home. It's essential.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Surprised finding people who didn't fare well in school and had to forge a path--or "bloomed" later--still worry about "getting into college" and that kids who homeschool and play a lot are not learning "enough."

    Brainwashing runs deep. If the kids want to get into college, there's a way. It's like asking how a person with an ailment will get into a hospital: don't worry; they're motivated to get you in there.

    ReplyDelete
  3. As I drove southbound home with Christmas groceries, I planned to swing in, hug your neck, tell you the ice cream was melting and yell Merry Christmas to the whole house. As it turned out, I was on one road to the east, dag, and blew my moment. Merry Christmas! I love you back.

    ReplyDelete