Mindblowing homeschool debate on About.com

I stumbled upon a homeschool war on About.com, which seems a bit uncharacteristic for the site, to begin with.  The "debate" between Jerry Webster and Kathy Ceceri (who unceremoniously replaced Beverly Hernandez some months ago), pits special education against homeschooling, which is a real shame because many families have found relief and safety for their special-ed children in homeschooling.

But perhaps, that is Mr. Webster's problem.  Maybe he feels disregarded by homeschoolers, a group that doesn't hang onto every word of his expertise.  Perhaps people who could take or leave his advice as it suits them are a bit full of themselves and need to be put in their place.  But it is not my place to try to see into the brain of Mr. Webster.  It is also not his place to try to peer into our brains and motivations either.

You can go ahead and read the blogs if you wish, but he has made it clear, that he has said his peice, and now wants us homeschoolers to "go away" now.  (Notice to Homeschoolers) Good luck with that! The thing I am having the most problem with is that he is whining about being  drawn into a debate by Kathy Ceceri.  Isn't that the adult equivalent of "she started it"?

Likewise, I'm not sure why Kathy entertained him.  Homeschoolers have been largely quiet in the homeschool debate for a while because most of us have realized that there is no point in arguing with a wall.  If someone has already decided that homeschooling is for crazies, not even the most intelligent, relaxed, thoughtful response is likely to change their minds.  In my experience, the only thing that will make a person change their mind about homeschooling is seeing a student be successful.  I.e. most of my biggest detractors when my kids were young, are now our biggest supporters.

So my final thought on this toxic online homeschool debate is to stop arguing, and keep homeschooling.  Prove the success by your actions, not by your words.  Let the detractors show their ignorance, and if you must write about education, or homeschooling, try to keep it positive.