Resources for Alternative & Supplemental Schooling

As families around Western Montana look ahead to the upcoming school year, many are considering different options for their child’s education in the midst of a pandemic.

Let’s be clear though, the ability to have any choice in the matter is a huge privilege that is not afforded to every family in our community. There are parents balancing childcare and work, students who need access to specialized services and individualized education plans, and other caregivers who have no choice but to send their child back to school. There are also families and children who are higher risk and cannot take a chance with the possible risk that their child brings home a virus.

For those that are looking into alternatives to “school as normal” or supplemental activities to full or part-time remote learning, we have put together a quick crash course in some of the options and ideas that other families are exploring.

Homeschooling vs Remote Learning

Both are doing school at home, right? They are, but it is an important distinction to make as parents plan for their kids’ education this fall.

Homeschooling is a broad category that may look different for every family. Parents can choose what curriculum they want to follow (or not follow) and there is a variety of programs each with different costs, focuses and even methods of delivery (online, workbooks, etc).

Remote learning, on the other hand, will be determined by your child’s school district. Although many of us dipped our toes in the water of remote learning this spring when COVID-19 arrived on the scene, it is unclear what remote learning will look like in the fall. It will most definitely vary between school districts, and may even be specific to your particular school and teacher. Staying enrolled in school while opting for remote learning does have its upsides though: no cost, technology will be provided (as available), no trying to figure out which curriculum to use, and enrollment in your local public school offers them needed funding to provide services and resources.

We have linked some resources, tools, and options for homeschooling and remote learning families further down.

*Note MCPS is releasing more info about their phased re-opening including their “Academy Online” option here.

Pods

A popular idea that is gaining traction among families is “pods.” These small groups of local families are working together to supplement either homeschooling or remote learning. There is no formal structure or organization behind the idea, but the flexibility is what makes it appealing to many. Some families are organizing themselves based on similar interests or schedules, while others are connecting via shared schools or grade levels. This may be a good option for someone looking to have some socialization time for their children or to find a group to share childcare or tutors for a small group. Two Facebook groups we know of that families are connecting through are “Homeschool & Remote Learning Pods for Missoula” and “Montana Mommies + Daddies,” for families with any age who are continuing physical distancing to connect with one another for shared childcare resources and more. There is also a page that has started for those who are interested in joining a Free Forrest School that is working on starting.

Learning with Meaning

Learning with Meaning is a homeschool co-op located in central Missoula near Southgate Mall. The organization offers classes in a variety of subjects, plus a ton of resources for those who are homeschooling or supplementing their alternative schooling plans. For Kindergarten through 5th grade, their eNDVR program offers outdoor, STEM, and Physical Education classes, along with a lending library of homeschool curriculum. For middle school and high school students, Aspire offers student-led learning and academic classes. The co-op also runs Makerspace, giving students and parents the chance manufacturing their creations with a laser cutter, 3D printer, vinyl cutter, and CNC machine.

Turning the Wheel

Want to merge traditional academics with movement and play? Turning the Wheel Missoula provides social emotional learning through the expressive arts. They offer inclusive movement play that meets some school standards for dance, PE and theatre instruction. The result is a playful, collaborative romp where learning is fun and all children are seen and appreciated. 

TTW is very interested in serving families this fall. Due to limited availability they may only be able to work with one “pod” or group of families per semester, but are well versed in designing experiences around themes and/or the needs of the group. To learn more email lulu@turningthewheel.org

Homeschool Resources

Missoula Homeschool Idea Exchange

Missoula Area Homeschool for Preschoolers Network

Homeschool Curriculum Exchange Bitterroot and Beyond

Missoula County Homeschool Info & Forms

Read our summary of MCPS’ plans to re-open here.

Read our post about parents making tough choices about their children’s education this fall here.