A Word From the Director                      

I enjoy working with homeschoolers. It is something I believe in and enjoy doing. Homeschooling is a subject I know since I have been there--first, as a homeschool student, and later as a homeschooling parent. I personally know the frustrations, the joys, and the alternatives.

When I taught in the multi-grade classroom, (in both private and public schools), I watched for new ideas and better methods. I learned that nothing is fool-proof and that each student is unique and has different needs. Incidentally, I believe every student is gifted in some way, and we may have to look for that gift. To make it even more complex or difficult, I learned that something might be grasped by one student on a certain day, while another student doesn't even hear what is discussed. Both are in the same class; personal differences or circumstances play an important part, one is not tuned in. Because of these experiences, I reassure parents learning will take place even though at times they may feel uncertain.

Before starting to school my mother taught me as I showed an interest, and I began to enjoy learning. When I started to school, I had a great teacher and was allowed a lot of freedom. I am thankful for my teachers and learned something from each one--in a few cases how not to. Looking back, I realize how fortunate I was, because I was allowed to progress at my own rate. I remember the special projects and the unusual things we did. All of this resulted in my completing grade school in seven years and high school in three years, and I don't consider myself any smarter than my peers.

In college I took some special education classes and observed in many special classrooms. When I saw some of the neat things the teachers did with these students and how they progressed, I asked my supervising professor what was provided for the gifted students, and what would happen if these same neat activities were used with the gifted. His answer was, "Go find out." I did, and it changed my outlook and philosophy on teaching. Creative teachers allowed their students to be creative. When children are provided with materials and encouragement, higher quality learning takes place.

My challenge to you is: Go find out!

Ila Edwards, M.Ed.

Director of HPS PREP SCHOOL