It has been almost four years since my 20-year old self first stepped onto the campus of School of Tomorrow®, Philippines. My heart was pounding in anxiety because of the new experiences, new acquaintances, and new responsibilities that were ahead of me. Everything around me was far different from the things that I was used to. The horizon became wider for exploration and opened various opportunities.

It was in July 2017, when I first took the Parent Orientation and Training, that the SOT system and curriculum was introduced to me in more detail. The individualized instruction and Bible-based curriculum were the first things that caught my attention during that two-day training. It was totally different from what I had known from the time I was in kindergarten until I finished my Bachelor’s degree. Everything was contrary to what I had learned in college…… that collaborative learning is one of the best approaches used in teaching. The concept that learners benefit more when they are exposed to various viewpoints from people with different backgrounds.

I never experienced being homeschooled since it was not common in our province. We only had public and private schools in our area. With the economic status of my family, I was sent to a public school. It was only when I became an academic adviser in Philippine Christian School of Tomorrow – Home Education Program (PCST- HEP) that I understood the real meaning of homeschooling. The parents and the students are the main characters here and its success depends on how dedicated and committed the parents are. Parents, as teachers of their own kids, are responsible in facilitating, supervising, and ensuring that learning takes place at home. This responsibility is not easy for a mom or a dad, knowing that it will demand their time and effort. Time, since this is a day-to-day routine activity that they have to do in addition to household chores and other responsibilities they need to accomplish. Effort, because they need to ensure that all the set goals and activities are being done properly. All of this, time and effort, requires their unending patience.

Homeschooling using a Bible-based curriculum is also an avenue through which parents are able to hone the godly character of their children. Nowadays, children are most likely to pattern their behavior from social media or through the influence of the people around them especially when the parents are not present in their day to day activities. The success of parenthood is not based on bringing children into this world but on rearing them to become responsible and God-fearing individuals.

As an academic adviser, I have had the chance of hearing stories from the parents on how homeschooling built the relationships within the home – parents towards their own children and the children towards their siblings. A harmonious relationship at home provides a peaceful ambience and positive vibes with everyone. I did not have the opportunity to be homeschooled during my days as a student but I am grateful to be part of an institution that provides services to homeschooling families.

I am thankful for the things that I have experienced and will experience at PCST-HEP because I believe these are all part of God’s wonderful plan for my life.