Navigating Bullying: Should Parents Home School Their Child?

When a child is being bullied at school by other students, teachers, administrators, school boards, and law enforcement must be involved in addressing the issue. The decision to home school your child might seem like a quick fix, but it requires a thorough evaluation of the situation.

Understanding the Complexities of Bullying

Bullying can range from minor meanness to severe danger and sexual abuse. Not all schools handle bullying the same way. Some have established effective strategies to curb and change the behavior of bullies, while others might not take sufficient action at all. Similarly, the school staff, classmates, and even law enforcement can vary in their response.

Learning from Coping with Bullying

Your child can learn a lot about human relations by effectively coping with bullying. This doesn't mean ignoring the problem. It means learning to stand up and fight back within reason. Parents should also advocate for their child, ensuring that the school takes appropriate action. Engage with the teacher to understand if the bully is being punished. If your child uses self-defense, let the school and law enforcement know that you'll support them and will sue for failure to protect your child if necessary.

When is Home Schooling the Right Option?

In some cases, the bullying might be so severe and dangerous that home schooling becomes a viable option. However, it requires a significant time and energy commitment from the parents, often resulting in one parent's income being lost. If you are not willing to take on this immense challenge, you should reconsider.

Handling Severe Forms of Abuse

Sexual abuse and other forms of physical abuse should never be tolerated. If your child is experiencing such abuse, it is crucial to seek help from legal authorities. Private schools might be another option, and suing the school board for the loss of income or tuition at a private school could be a viable legal measure.

Documentation and Legal Measures

Ensure you maintain detailed records of the bullying incidents. If legal measures are considered, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer to understand your rights and options.

Ultimately, each case is unique, and the decision to home school must balance the needs of the child with the realities of the situation. Parents should consider all available resources and support systems before making a decision.