Home schooling

To the editor:

Your recent articles on home schooling were thorough and balanced, and I appreciate the chance to take part in the discussion. Home schools are often wonderful, enriching and good for students. Tutoring is generally the best option for young learners because of the individual attention and the intense learning that can take place when there is “nowhere to hide.” This is why the emperors, kings and the very wealthy hired tutors for their children for centuries.

Mass education has a downside, which everyone acknowledges. On the other hand, pubic schools must meet specific standards and are monitored by outside agencies and the local board of education. I laud all home schooling parents who are providing an adequate and comparable education. Unfortunately, with the Kansas system there is no reason to decide which schools are doing well and which are not without having a court hearing on each home school. This situation is a consequence of state laws and regulations that are among the most liberal in the nation.

Paul Getto,

Topeka