Are there any Alternatives to Home Schooling without losing the involvement in

[Xaxi]

curriculum planning? I want to be involved in my child's education and would like to be able to have a say (and herself to have a say) in what she is taught and what she learns. I know I can do this through home schooling and love the idea, but in order to survive, I must work during the days and won't be available as a stay at home mom. Does anyone know of any "not quite" home schooling programs? Or ways to have the home school feeling of having a hand in what is taught in a small group class setting? If not, should I just hire a tutor (in a professional setting?) and pay a lot of money? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[HS Mom]

It sounds like what you are looking for is a virtual public school. It's a mix between public B&M school and homeschooling - sort of a halfway point. (Side note - virtual schooling has opponents on either end of the spectrum - PS teachers hate it and those who think "pure" HS'ing is the way to go hate it.)

If your state has allowed virtual public charter schools, then I'd start your search there. They typically supply a computer and printer, the curriculum and sometimes reimburse Internet access fees. They are paid for w/ tax dollars so they are "free" (normal PS fees apply). Most VCS's are managed by either K12 (K12 curriculum) or Connections Academy (Calvert curriculum). Here are the links from both that show what states have their schools:

http://www.k12.com/getk12/index.html

http://www.connectionsacademy.com/ourschool/passthroughMap.asp?loc=bottomImage&pageName=home.a sp

I've used the K12 curriculum as an independent (Cosumer Direct) user for over five years and LOVE it.

[Rosie_0801]

Not really. Not even school teachers have complete control over what is taught and how in their classrooms. If you don't can't find a way to homeschool, try looking at Steiner/Waldorf or Montessori schools. Their philosphies may be more palatable to you than the average public school.
You can homeschool in the evenings (if you have the energy), on weekends and during holidays. School doesn't have to happen between 9 and 3. That can only work if you have a supportive mum or someone around to take care of her while you're at work. Paying someone would be impossible unless you earn enough to pay someone a decent wage and still have enough left over for you.