Why I Chose to Homeschool: My Journey as a Black, Single Mother Taking Education Into My Own Hands

Making the choice to become a homeschool mom was actually easy for me—my mind had long been made up that homeschooling was the best path for my kids. It just took me longer to start.

I began the homeschooling journey with 3 out of my 4 children later in life (high school), during a time when many parents had already started homeschooling their younger children due to the pandemic. Even though my timing was different, I’m sure many of our reasons were the same.

I had always dreamed of homeschooling my kids, but for years, I didn’t feel confident, supported, or informed enough to begin. Deep down, though, I knew I’d eventually answer that calling. I’m the kind of parent who made bold decisions early—like stopping immunizations when my kids were as young as two. My children, now between the ages of 19 and 26, were raised with a mindset of questioning the norm and seeking what truly works for them. So when the time felt right, I leaned into what I had always believed was best.

As a young mother of four and a single parent, I carried the weight of not only raising my daughters, but educating them—often alone. Their fathers was physically present at times, but emotionally and mentally checked out. I realized no one cared about my daughters’ education more than I did—and I couldn’t wait for someone else to step in.

I knew, from my own life experience, how essential it was to get an education and, more importantly, to learn beyond what the classroom teaches.

Fighting for My Daughters’ Education: The Eye-Opening Reality

I remember the many times I had to fight with the school system just to get my daughters the education they deserved and was their right. They had IEPs, and every step of the way I had to push, question, and advocate for basic support. I sat through countless meetings, had to get legal help, took off work, and walked into rooms where I often felt dismissed or unheard. That fight drained me emotionally, but it also fueled me. It made me realize the system isn’t set up to truly support our kids for LIFE. It’s not completely broken, but it’s far from whole. That fight revealed just how many cracks exist in public education, and it became even clearer to me that I had to take matters into my own hands.

A New Beginning: Transitioning to Homeschooling

Fast forward to 2008, when news started spreading about an unknown illness—what would later become known as COVID-19. There was talk of virtual learning and new school requirements. I remember thinking, “They’re definitely going to make immunizations a requirement soon.” By then, my girls were older, and it felt like the perfect time to let my twins finish their last years of high school virtually. That was my moment, and I took it. I did my research, connected with a homeschool parent/consultant, and enrolled them.

The whole process was easier than I thought it would be, especially since I didn’t have to shadow them constantly. But even that short time—two years—felt powerful and right. I had always felt traditional schooling wasn’t enough. It didn’t prepare kids for real life. Most of what we’re taught in school is forgotten or never applied—aside from basic math or general knowledge. They need more.

Homeschooling as a Lifelong Investment

To every homeschooling parent out there: you’ve made the right choice. I didn’t start early, but I want to encourage you to keep going. Make the sacrifices, because your child’s future is worth it. Let the doubters talk; your success will speak louder. You won’t just prove them wrong—you’ll inspire others who are considering homeschooling, too.

You’re blessed to have a community of homeschoolers now. Let’s support one another. Let’s support our kids, continue to grow into the best versions of ourselves, and become the parents they truly need us to be.

What do you think

What do you think? If you’re a parent, what helped you make your decision about schooling your kids? If you’ve ever thought about homeschooling, what’s holding you back? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Let’s talk about it.