Jacquelyn Morran- Blog 4

This week's chapter discussed the structure of education in Canada and the different forms it takes in all the areas of the country. The very first thing that struck me, which I actually did not know previously, was that "Canada is the only country in the world with no federal education department." (89) I just thought that was an interesting fact because education is such an important part of a nation, I thought for sure it would be governed federally. I was also surprised by the variety of schools in Canada and how certain types of schools only exist in specific areas- like charter schools in Alberta. The text states that "supporters of charter schools argue that such schools provide much-needed flexibility within the public school system and allow parents more choice about where they can send their children" while opponents say they "raise concerns about equity and fairness around access." (104) I didn't know Canada even had charter schools, and I was intrigued by them.

When I was growing up, I was only aware of public and private schools, and while I would have loved the opportunity to go to the private Christian school in my area, I knew it was impossible for anyone in my family because we could not afford it. I attended public schools for my entire education, there was never a choice because we could not afford other options.

I was homeschooled for one year, however. The text describes home schooling as an arrangement where "children do not attend school, but are educated at home, usually by a parent." (106). I was homeschooled by my Mom in the first grade because I had major surgery that year, and the school I was attending did not accommodate me properly. I was in a wheelchair for several months, but even after I began to walk with my walker, the principle and my EA made me sit on a chair by the door for every recess and watch the other children playing, because they felt it was too dangerous for me to be on the playground. My mom tried to fight them so I could join the other students but they refused, so one day she pulled me out of school. I really enjoyed being homeschooled, and did well. I had to take specific tests but otherwise I could learn at my own pace. Best of all, my Mom allowed me to go outside, both to learn and to play. After we moved, I began going to a new school, but homeschooling was a very positive experience for me.

Overall, I found this chapter's summary of education in Canada to be both interesting and thorough, and I think it is very important to have a variety of options available to students when it comes to education.

Discussion question: Should homeschooling have more regulations put in place, and should parents have to meet any sort of qualifications to homeschool their children?