Guest guest Posted March 24, 2010 Report Share Posted March 24, 2010 This whole discussion has prompted me to think about how we can better get this information through to teachers in schools. I'm a writer, as some of you know, and I first thought about creating a site dedicated to it. But I don't think teachers would actively log on there to get the info. So... I'm going to create a brochure that provides all the info. I'll create one for vegetarian kids and vegan kids. Then I'll put them online on my blog and people can download them for free, as needed, and give one to every teacher or school administrator they feel that needs one. The brochure would describe what a vegetarian/vegan is, have a place to put the child's name, what are some common things they can and cannot have, where they can get more information, alternatives instructions you may want them to have, etc. If you can think of something that is important to include on the brochure, be sure to drop me a line at my personal e-mail address. I'll work on this sometime next week and let you all know when it's done. I'm just thinking it may be more handy than us personally writing up a list for the teacher. Jacqueline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 What an awesome idea, Jacqueline! Would you be leaving it, maybe in pdf form, in the files section of this group, or would you keep it on your computer, to get by request only? The Feingold Association has similar brochures and even a teacher's packet, for parents to hand the teacher when a Feingold kid joins her class. This is a WONDERFUL idea! I would definitely want these, even though we homeschool, because you never know when your child will be cared for by others who might not understand. Marilyn Jacqueline Bodnar <jb Wed, Mar 24, 2010 4:10 pm vegetarianism and teachers/schools This whole discussion has prompted me to think about how we can better get this information through to teachers in schools. I'm a writer, as some of you know, and I first thought about creating a site dedicated to it. But I don't think teachers would actively log on there to get the info. So... I'm going to create a brochure that provides all the info. I'll create one for vegetarian kids and vegan kids. Then I'll put them online on my blog and people can download them for free, as needed, and give one to every teacher or school administrator they feel that needs one. The brochure would describe what a vegetarian/vegan is, have a place to put the child's name, what are some common things they can and cannot have, where they can get more information, alternatives instructions you may want them to have, etc. If you can think of something that is important to include on the brochure, be sure to drop me a line at my personal e-mail address. I'll work on this sometime next week and let you all know when it's done. I'm just thinking it may be more handy than us personally writing up a list for the teacher. Jacqueline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 Wonderful idea !!!! I live in Brooklyn, NY my daughter’s public school needs an eye opener. Thank you so much .Nellie --- On Thu, 3/25/10, youhavehowmany <youhavehowmany wrote: youhavehowmany <youhavehowmany Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Thursday, March 25, 2010, 8:58 AM  What an awesome idea, Jacqueline! Would you be leaving it, maybe in pdf form, in the files section of this group, or would you keep it on your computer, to get by request only? The Feingold Association has similar brochures and even a teacher's packet, for parents to hand the teacher when a Feingold kid joins her class. This is a WONDERFUL idea! I would definitely want these, even though we homeschool, because you never know when your child will be cared for by others who might not understand. Marilyn Jacqueline Bodnar <jb@jacquelinebodnar .com> @gro ups.com Wed, Mar 24, 2010 4:10 pm vegetarianism and teachers/schools This whole discussion has prompted me to think about how we can better get this information through to teachers in schools. I'm a writer, as some of you know, and I first thought about creating a site dedicated to it. But I don't think teachers would actively log on there to get the info. So... I'm going to create a brochure that provides all the info. I'll create one for vegetarian kids and vegan kids. Then I'll put them online on my blog and people can download them for free, as needed, and give one to every teacher or school administrator they feel that needs one. The brochure would describe what a vegetarian/vegan is, have a place to put the child's name, what are some common things they can and cannot have, where they can get more information, alternatives instructions you may want them to have, etc. If you can think of something that is important to include on the brochure, be sure to drop me a line at my personal e-mail address. I'll work on this sometime next week and let you all know when it's done. I'm just thinking it may be more handy than us personally writing up a list for the teacher. Jacqueline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 I'm thinking I'll leave it in PDF form right on my blog (like a link to it that is always visible). Then people can download it and print/fold as they need it). I am going on a vacation for Spring Break, but when I come back next week I'll work on getting this done. Once it's done I will send it to the group. You are right, it can be used for more than teachers... really anyone who will be watching your child. Thanks, Jacqueline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 I can't wait. I would definitely give this to my kids' teacher! Sometimes it seems like I'm endlessly having to talk to the teacher about these things - not that I mind, but I can't help but think that he gets a little sick of it. Jill ________________________________ Jacqueline Bodnar <jb Wed, March 24, 2010 3:10:25 PM vegetarianism and teachers/schools  This whole discussion has prompted me to think about how we can better get this information through to teachers in schools. I'm a writer, as some of you know, and I first thought about creating a site dedicated to it. But I don't think teachers would actively log on there to get the info. So... I'm going to create a brochure that provides all the info. I'll create one for vegetarian kids and vegan kids. Then I'll put them online on my blog and people can download them for free, as needed, and give one to every teacher or school administrator they feel that needs one. The brochure would describe what a vegetarian/vegan is, have a place to put the child's name, what are some common things they can and cannot have, where they can get more information, alternatives instructions you may want them to have, etc. If you can think of something that is important to include on the brochure, be sure to drop me a line at my personal e-mail address. I'll work on this sometime next week and let you all know when it's done. I'm just thinking it may be more handy than us personally writing up a list for the teacher. Jacqueline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 That is a great idea Jacqueline! My son just turned 3 and I am really dreading the whole school experience, especially after hearing some of the difficulties you all have had. I'm starting to get the inquiries as to when he will start preschool and it is very difficult. I would love to homeschool, but I'm just not sure I'm qualified. Plus, I would like him to get more contact with other children. I think it would be so wonderful if all of us lived close and we could start our own homeschool program, then we wouldn't have to worry about all this. It is a shame that we do have to worry about it. Anyway, I'm sure the brochure will help a lot, thank you Jacqueline for volunteering to do that. -Dawn ________________________________ Jacqueline Bodnar <jb Wed, March 24, 2010 4:10:25 PM vegetarianism and teachers/schools This whole discussion has prompted me to think about how we can better get this information through to teachers in schools. I'm a writer, as some of you know, and I first thought about creating a site dedicated to it. But I don't think teachers would actively log on there to get the info. So... I'm going to create a brochure that provides all the info. I'll create one for vegetarian kids and vegan kids. Then I'll put them online on my blog and people can download them for free, as needed, and give one to every teacher or school administrator they feel that needs one. The brochure would describe what a vegetarian/vegan is, have a place to put the child's name, what are some common things they can and cannot have, where they can get more information, alternatives instructions you may want them to have, etc. If you can think of something that is important to include on the brochure, be sure to drop me a line at my personal e-mail address. I'll work on this sometime next week and let you all know when it's done. I'm just thinking it may be more handy than us personally writing up a list for the teacher. Jacqueline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 Hi Dawn, We are in the process of making a homeschooling decision, and that is one thing that's hung me up all this time, too - I'm not sure I'm qualified. I have college degrees and run my own business and am a smart person and have taught preschool . but I didn't go to school to learn to teach children past preschool, so not sure I can do this. But, you might want to look into something we're looking into here - a co-op of homeschoolers who either hire a teacher to teach some things, or parents take turns teaching all the kids things they know or research and then know. Charter schools also offer you the option of homeschooling part-time and doing a day or more in classrooms so kids can learn the things you don't feel comfortable teaching at home. And there are also online homeschooling programs that sort of tell you what to do next. (We're looking into it all right now . so know how you feel!) But, yes, a vegetarian homeschool co-op would be the greatest, huh? :-) Lorraine On Behalf Of Dawn Hubble Thursday, March 25, 2010 12:31 PM Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools That is a great idea Jacqueline! My son just turned 3 and I am really dreading the whole school experience, especially after hearing some of the difficulties you all have had. I'm starting to get the inquiries as to when he will start preschool and it is very difficult. I would love to homeschool, but I'm just not sure I'm qualified. Plus, I would like him to get more contact with other children. I think it would be so wonderful if all of us lived close and we could start our own homeschool program, then we wouldn't have to worry about all this. It is a shame that we do have to worry about it. Anyway, I'm sure the brochure will help a lot, thank you Jacqueline for volunteering to do that. -Dawn ________________________________ Jacqueline Bodnar <jb@jacquelinebodnar <jb%40jacquelinebodnar.com> .com> @gro <%40> ups.com Wed, March 24, 2010 4:10:25 PM vegetarianism and teachers/schools This whole discussion has prompted me to think about how we can better get this information through to teachers in schools. I'm a writer, as some of you know, and I first thought about creating a site dedicated to it. But I don't think teachers would actively log on there to get the info. So... I'm going to create a brochure that provides all the info. I'll create one for vegetarian kids and vegan kids. Then I'll put them online on my blog and people can download them for free, as needed, and give one to every teacher or school administrator they feel that needs one. The brochure would describe what a vegetarian/vegan is, have a place to put the child's name, what are some common things they can and cannot have, where they can get more information, alternatives instructions you may want them to have, etc. If you can think of something that is important to include on the brochure, be sure to drop me a line at my personal e-mail address. I'll work on this sometime next week and let you all know when it's done. I'm just thinking it may be more handy than us personally writing up a list for the teacher. Jacqueline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 I think this is a great idea, thank you. It might be beneficial not only to include a list of OK and not OK items ( maybe with checkboxes for parents since each household handles dairy / eggs / soy / nuts / honey / etc differently ) but also to include some basic information about the effect junk sugars have on children's brains. I wouldn't want it to come off as lecturing, but as one PP said, it's pretty unbelievable that we're in 2010 and we still have to make a case against frosted cupcakes and soda for our children!! Regarding schools, my DD will start at the Waldorf this fall and nutrition was a huge factor for me. They prepare snacks in class, things like oatmeal and apples or home-baked bread. We touched on the subject of birthdays and they only allow cakes that were baked the day before in the class with the kids, no frosting or junky stuff. There is a gluten-allergic boy in the class and I noticed the teachers being informed and sensitive about it. I told them we're vegetarian and clearly, this wasn't the first time they had heard that :-) But their weekly snack schedule is vegetarian anyways so that was easy. It definitely made me feel comfortable about her going there. Julie , " Jacqueline Bodnar " <jb wrote: > > This whole discussion has prompted me to think about how we can better > get this information through to teachers in schools. I'm a writer, as > some of you know, and I first thought about creating a site dedicated to > it. But I don't think teachers would actively log on there to get the > info. > > So... I'm going to create a brochure that provides all the info. I'll > create one for vegetarian kids and vegan kids. Then I'll put them online > on my blog and people can download them for free, as needed, and give > one to every teacher or school administrator they feel that needs one. > > The brochure would describe what a vegetarian/vegan is, have a place to > put the child's name, what are some common things they can and cannot > have, where they can get more information, alternatives instructions you > may want them to have, etc. If you can think of something that is > important to include on the brochure, be sure to drop me a line at my > personal e-mail address. I'll work on this sometime next week and let > you all know when it's done. > > I'm just thinking it may be more handy than us personally writing up a > list for the teacher. > > > Jacqueline > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 Not trying to push you into homeschooling, but if you are qualified to be a parent, you are qualified to homeschool. Many schools are limiting child interaction these days. Most of the homeschooled kids I know enjoy much more socialization than public schooled kids. I know it is not for everyone, but it really is not that hard and can be a lot of fun. Linda My vegan blog: http://veganlinda.blogspot.com/ My business: http://triballife.net/ http://triballifeinc.blogspot.com/ My car free blog: http://cucarfree.blogspot.com/ Our veg radio show: http://fftradio.blogspot.com/ On Mar 25, 2010, at 2:31 PM, Dawn Hubble <dawnhubb wrote: That is a great idea Jacqueline! My son just turned 3 and I am really dreading the whole school experience, especially after hearing some of the difficulties you all have had. I'm starting to get the inquiries as to when he will start preschool and it is very difficult. I would love to homeschool, but I'm just not sure I'm qualified. Plus, I would like him to get more contact with other children. I think it would be so wonderful if all of us lived close and we could start our own homeschool program, then we wouldn't have to worry about all this. It is a shame that we do have to worry about it. Anyway, I'm sure the brochure will help a lot, thank you Jacqueline for volunteering to do that. -Dawn ________________________________ Jacqueline Bodnar <jb Wed, March 24, 2010 4:10:25 PM vegetarianism and teachers/schools This whole discussion has prompted me to think about how we can better get this information through to teachers in schools. I'm a writer, as some of you know, and I first thought about creating a site dedicated to it. But I don't think teachers would actively log on there to get the info. So... I'm going to create a brochure that provides all the info. I'll create one for vegetarian kids and vegan kids. Then I'll put them online on my blog and people can download them for free, as needed, and give one to every teacher or school administrator they feel that needs one. The brochure would describe what a vegetarian/vegan is, have a place to put the child's name, what are some common things they can and cannot have, where they can get more information, alternatives instructions you may want them to have, etc. If you can think of something that is important to include on the brochure, be sure to drop me a line at my personal e-mail address. I'll work on this sometime next week and let you all know when it's done. I'm just thinking it may be more handy than us personally writing up a list for the teacher. Jacqueline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 Really looking forward to seeing that, Jacqueline! Thank you! Marilyn Jacqueline Bodnar <jb Thu, Mar 25, 2010 9:09 am RE: vegetarianism and teachers/schools I'm thinking I'll leave it in PDF form right on my blog (like a link to it that is always visible). Then people can download it and print/fold as they need it). I am going on a vacation for Spring Break, but when I come back next week I'll work on getting this done. Once it's done I will send it to the group. You are right, it can be used for more than teachers... really anyone who will be watching your child. Thanks, Jacqueline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 26, 2010 Report Share Posted March 26, 2010 Dawn and Lorraine, I'd definitely be in on the veg homeschooling coop! It is unfortunate how distance prevents us. My current idea is to let my daughter do preschool, maybe kindergarten-2nd (before she stops enjoying school). I love our preschool and <gasp> the few hours I get to be kid-free. We have only had minor issues at this point but our school has the kids bring their own food so that helps. K-2nd may be a whole new ballgame. But I've been considering the homeschooling for about a year... still undecided since part of me wants to go back to work. Keep me posted on your decisions, please! Huyen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 26, 2010 Report Share Posted March 26, 2010 Thank you so much to all of you that boosted my confidence when it came to homeschooling. I will absolutely check out the homeschooling coops in our area and see what I can find. The way some schools have become with violence, bullying, and on top of all that what we veg parents have to worry about, homeschooling seems like a nice option. A veg homeschooling coop would be really amazing though wouldn't it? Thanks! -Dawn ________________________________ Huyen < Fri, March 26, 2010 2:37:59 PM Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Dawn and Lorraine, I'd definitely be in on the veg homeschooling coop! It is unfortunate how distance prevents us. My current idea is to let my daughter do preschool, maybe kindergarten- 2nd (before she stops enjoying school). I love our preschool and <gasp> the few hours I get to be kid-free. We have only had minor issues at this point but our school has the kids bring their own food so that helps. K-2nd may be a whole new ballgame. But I've been considering the homeschooling for about a year... still undecided since part of me wants to go back to work. Keep me posted on your decisions, please! Huyen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 27, 2010 Report Share Posted March 27, 2010 Hi Huyen, Well, there are homeschool programs that are supervised online – I’m sure someone’s doing co-op classes online with skype or something! :-) haha. And yeah, I’ll keep you posted … we’re looking today at state education standards that kids are to meet at different grades, and seeing that our son already has at least ½ of the kindergarten stuff down, before even starting the year … so kindergarten won’t be hard for us to homeschool. The hard part will be me fitting everything into my over-harried schedule of WAHM, co-op parent/homeschool parent (if that’s who I become), runner of the household, etc. Still balancing all that like slippery mango on a spinning plate. :-) I e’d with a homeschooling WAHM friend today who said that it’ll all work out somehow, it always does for them. And I realized some other vegetarian reasons that homeschooling will be helpful for us – never have to deal with “meat = protein” in the nutrition lessons, and never have to deal with biology dissection or even having to do release forms. Hmmm, interesting. Have a great day, Lorraine On Behalf Of Huyen Friday, March 26, 2010 11:38 AM Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Dawn and Lorraine, I'd definitely be in on the veg homeschooling coop! It is unfortunate how distance prevents us. My current idea is to let my daughter do preschool, maybe kindergarten-2nd (before she stops enjoying school). I love our preschool and <gasp> the few hours I get to be kid-free. We have only had minor issues at this point but our school has the kids bring their own food so that helps. K-2nd may be a whole new ballgame. But I've been considering the homeschooling for about a year... still undecided since part of me wants to go back to work. Keep me posted on your decisions, please! Huyen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 27, 2010 Report Share Posted March 27, 2010 our state offers for free an oportunity for k12 schooling, a form of homeschooling. You might check it out. There is a map to show what isavailable in your area http://www.k12.com/  Laura Ballinger Morales ________________________________ Dawn Hubble <dawnhubb Fri, March 26, 2010 3:34:22 PM Re: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools  Thank you so much to all of you that boosted my confidence when it came to homeschooling. I will absolutely check out the homeschooling coops in our area and see what I can find. The way some schools have become with violence, bullying, and on top of all that what we veg parents have to worry about, homeschooling seems like a nice option. A veg homeschooling coop would be really amazing though wouldn't it? Thanks! -Dawn ____________ _________ _________ __ Huyen < (AT) huyen (DOT) org> @gro ups.com Fri, March 26, 2010 2:37:59 PM Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Dawn and Lorraine, I'd definitely be in on the veg homeschooling coop! It is unfortunate how distance prevents us. My current idea is to let my daughter do preschool, maybe kindergarten- 2nd (before she stops enjoying school). I love our preschool and <gasp> the few hours I get to be kid-free. We have only had minor issues at this point but our school has the kids bring their own food so that helps. K-2nd may be a whole new ballgame. But I've been considering the homeschooling for about a year... still undecided since part of me wants to go back to work. Keep me posted on your decisions, please! Huyen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 28, 2010 Report Share Posted March 28, 2010 You might also check out your local area... if you're uncomfortable with homeschooling 100% of the time, there are often charter schools, etc. run through your local district, created for homeschoolers, where you can take your child to class just a day or two a week...or just to (insert individual subject here). Some will even give you funds for your own use. A friend of mine does homeschooling here that gives her $1500 a year to use for materials...plus PLENTY of activities/ field trips. Really, the possibilities are endless. There are many homeschool groups on . I myself belong to several of them. good luck! j. ________________________________ Lorraine <ldemi Fri, March 26, 2010 8:19:26 PM RE: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools  Hi Huyen, Well, there are homeschool programs that are supervised online – I’m sure someone’s doing co-op classes online with skype or something! :-) haha. And yeah, I’ll keep you posted … we’re looking today at state education standards that kids are to meet at different grades, and seeing that our son already has at least ½ of the kindergarten stuff down, before even starting the year … so kindergarten won’t be hard for us to homeschool. The hard part will be me fitting everything into my over-harried schedule of WAHM, co-op parent/homeschool parent (if that’s who I become), runner of the household, etc. Still balancing all that like slippery mango on a spinning plate. :-) I e’d with a homeschooling WAHM friend today who said that it’ll all work out somehow, it always does for them. And I realized some other vegetarian reasons that homeschooling will be helpful for us – never have to deal with “meat = protein†in the nutrition lessons, and never have to deal with biology dissection or even having to do release forms. Hmmm, interesting. Have a great day, Lorraine @gro ups.com [@gro ups.com] On Behalf Of Huyen Friday, March 26, 2010 11:38 AM @gro ups.com Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Dawn and Lorraine, I'd definitely be in on the veg homeschooling coop! It is unfortunate how distance prevents us. My current idea is to let my daughter do preschool, maybe kindergarten- 2nd (before she stops enjoying school). I love our preschool and <gasp> the few hours I get to be kid-free. We have only had minor issues at this point but our school has the kids bring their own food so that helps. K-2nd may be a whole new ballgame. But I've been considering the homeschooling for about a year... still undecided since part of me wants to go back to work. Keep me posted on your decisions, please! Huyen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 28, 2010 Report Share Posted March 28, 2010 Hi Jenni, Yes, we’ve been looking at local charter schools that supervise homeschooling. I like this as an option. I like that we can drop in or out of classroom services as we want them, get the educational units (EU) funds to pay for materials or other classes or field trips, and our local charter schools have curricula libraries we can borrow from and not have to buy them, and resource rooms that I hear are like Lakeshore Learning Stores where you can borrow manipulatives and stuff for your homeschooling! (Is it crazy that I’m so excited about that resource room!?) :-) And yes, the activities and field trips are alluring, too. I’m liking this option as I research all this! And I just got on homeschool , too. What did we do before ? :-) Oh, also, have you found standard school curriculum that is vegetarian/earth friendly? I’d love to have tips before we visit schools! Thanks for your views on all this – very helpful! Lorraine On Behalf Of jenni claire garverick Saturday, March 27, 2010 11:00 PM Re: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools You might also check out your local area... if you're uncomfortable with homeschooling 100% of the time, there are often charter schools, etc. run through your local district, created for homeschoolers, where you can take your child to class just a day or two a week...or just to (insert individual subject here). Some will even give you funds for your own use. A friend of mine does homeschooling here that gives her $1500 a year to use for materials...plus PLENTY of activities/ field trips. Really, the possibilities are endless. There are many homeschool groups on . I myself belong to several of them. good luck! j. ________________________________ Lorraine <ldemi <ldemi%40ucsd.edu> > @gro <%40> ups.com Fri, March 26, 2010 8:19:26 PM RE: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Hi Huyen, Well, there are homeschool programs that are supervised online – I’m sure someone’s doing co-op classes online with skype or something! :-) haha. And yeah, I’ll keep you posted … we’re looking today at state education standards that kids are to meet at different grades, and seeing that our son already has at least ½ of the kindergarten stuff down, before even starting the year … so kindergarten won’t be hard for us to homeschool. The hard part will be me fitting everything into my over-harried schedule of WAHM, co-op parent/homeschool parent (if that’s who I become), runner of the household, etc. Still balancing all that like slippery mango on a spinning plate. :-) I e’d with a homeschooling WAHM friend today who said that it’ll all work out somehow, it always does for them. And I realized some other vegetarian reasons that homeschooling will be helpful for us – never have to deal with “meat = protein” in the nutrition lessons, and never have to deal with biology dissection or even having to do release forms. Hmmm, interesting. Have a great day, Lorraine @gro ups.com [@gro ups.com] On Behalf Of Huyen Friday, March 26, 2010 11:38 AM @gro ups.com Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Dawn and Lorraine, I'd definitely be in on the veg homeschooling coop! It is unfortunate how distance prevents us. My current idea is to let my daughter do preschool, maybe kindergarten- 2nd (before she stops enjoying school). I love our preschool and <gasp> the few hours I get to be kid-free. We have only had minor issues at this point but our school has the kids bring their own food so that helps. K-2nd may be a whole new ballgame. But I've been considering the homeschooling for about a year... still undecided since part of me wants to go back to work. Keep me posted on your decisions, please! Huyen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 29, 2010 Report Share Posted March 29, 2010 That is such a tough question! I've found that the science curricula I've come across (speaking of what's in public schools, here) is generally pretty 'green'- at least for grades k-6. LOTS of discussions about recycling, caring for the Earth, reducing waste etc.- as it relates to whatever the topics are in that particular grade. As for dietary stuff, I've found they're pretty clear to include beans, etc., as other choices in the protein food group. But I still find the reliance on dairy, emphasis on meat, etc. fairly distasteful. I've resigned myself to the idea that I'm just not going to like that aspect of nutrition education (and let's face it, there's not much)- and when I was teaching, I was careful to include all the other choices available. I was also very open about my own dietary habits (and I mostly taught in low socio-economic schools, so it was the first time many of my students had ever heard the word 'vegetarian'), and 'haha, as you know, Mrs. Garverick doesn't eat turkey on Thanksgiving like it says here, but_____ instead'. Really, you're not going to find a whole lot of variability in public school curricula- only about 2 or 3 companies make 95% of what's out there, textbook-wise. Unfortunately.     For some reason, I'm thinking you live in CA, Lorraine? One thing I think is an advantage here is the ethnic/religious diversity- schools have to be more aware of these things because there is a diverse population of non-meat eaters, each with their own set of rules. My daughter is currently in 1st grade, and we've had nary an issue. But as you've found out, researching all of this, tons of people arrive at homeschooling for a variety of reasons. I figure each family has to work out what is best for them. Good luck, and let me know how it goes! j. ________________________________ Lorraine <ldemi Sun, March 28, 2010 1:02:11 PM RE: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools  Hi Jenni, Yes, we’ve been looking at local charter schools that supervise homeschooling. I like this as an option. I like that we can drop in or out of classroom services as we want them, get the educational units (EU) funds to pay for materials or other classes or field trips, and our local charter schools have curricula libraries we can borrow from and not have to buy them, and resource rooms that I hear are like Lakeshore Learning Stores where you can borrow manipulatives and stuff for your homeschooling! (Is it crazy that I’m so excited about that resource room!?) :-) And yes, the activities and field trips are alluring, too. I’m liking this option as I research all this! And I just got on homeschool , too. What did we do before ? :-) Oh, also, have you found standard school curriculum that is vegetarian/earth friendly? I’d love to have tips before we visit schools! Thanks for your views on all this – very helpful! Lorraine @gro ups.com [@gro ups.com] On Behalf Of jenni claire garverick Saturday, March 27, 2010 11:00 PM @gro ups.com Re: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools You might also check out your local area... if you're uncomfortable with homeschooling 100% of the time, there are often charter schools, etc. run through your local district, created for homeschoolers, where you can take your child to class just a day or two a week...or just to (insert individual subject here). Some will even give you funds for your own use. A friend of mine does homeschooling here that gives her $1500 a year to use for materials... plus PLENTY of activities/ field trips. Really, the possibilities are endless. There are many homeschool groups on . I myself belong to several of them. good luck! j. ____________ _________ _________ __ Lorraine <ldemi <ldemi% 40ucsd.edu> > @gro <% 40. com> ups.com Fri, March 26, 2010 8:19:26 PM RE: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Hi Huyen, Well, there are homeschool programs that are supervised online – I’m sure someone’s doing co-op classes online with skype or something! :-) haha. And yeah, I’ll keep you posted … we’re looking today at state education standards that kids are to meet at different grades, and seeing that our son already has at least ½ of the kindergarten stuff down, before even starting the year … so kindergarten won’t be hard for us to homeschool. The hard part will be me fitting everything into my over-harried schedule of WAHM, co-op parent/homeschool parent (if that’s who I become), runner of the household, etc. Still balancing all that like slippery mango on a spinning plate. :-) I e’d with a homeschooling WAHM friend today who said that it’ll all work out somehow, it always does for them. And I realized some other vegetarian reasons that homeschooling will be helpful for us – never have to deal with “meat = protein†in the nutrition lessons, and never have to deal with biology dissection or even having to do release forms. Hmmm, interesting. Have a great day, Lorraine @gro ups.com [@ gro ups.com] On Behalf Of Huyen Friday, March 26, 2010 11:38 AM @gro ups.com Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Dawn and Lorraine, I'd definitely be in on the veg homeschooling coop! It is unfortunate how distance prevents us. My current idea is to let my daughter do preschool, maybe kindergarten- 2nd (before she stops enjoying school). I love our preschool and <gasp> the few hours I get to be kid-free. We have only had minor issues at this point but our school has the kids bring their own food so that helps. K-2nd may be a whole new ballgame. But I've been considering the homeschooling for about a year... still undecided since part of me wants to go back to work. Keep me posted on your decisions, please! Huyen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 29, 2010 Report Share Posted March 29, 2010 Hi Jenni, Thank you for all this info! And yes, we’re in California. You give me an idea with your mention of religious sensitivity – I’m going to look into what science/nutrition curriculum the local Seventh Day Adventist school uses! That’ll be vegetarian! Yayyy, thanks for that idea! And you’re making me think maybe we should visit and interview charter schools to oversee our homeschooling sooner rather than later … so I can start reviewing their curriculum libraries over the summer. Thanks, Jenni! Have a great afternoon, Lorraine On Behalf Of jenni claire garverick Sunday, March 28, 2010 9:42 PM Re: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools That is such a tough question! I've found that the science curricula I've come across (speaking of what's in public schools, here) is generally pretty 'green'- at least for grades k-6. LOTS of discussions about recycling, caring for the Earth, reducing waste etc.- as it relates to whatever the topics are in that particular grade. As for dietary stuff, I've found they're pretty clear to include beans, etc., as other choices in the protein food group. But I still find the reliance on dairy, emphasis on meat, etc. fairly distasteful. I've resigned myself to the idea that I'm just not going to like that aspect of nutrition education (and let's face it, there's not much)- and when I was teaching, I was careful to include all the other choices available. I was also very open about my own dietary habits (and I mostly taught in low socio-economic schools, so it was the first time many of my students had ever heard the word 'vegetarian'), and 'haha, as you know, Mrs. Garverick doesn't eat turkey on Thanksgiving like it says here, but_____ instead'. Really, you're not going to find a whole lot of variability in public school curricula- only about 2 or 3 companies make 95% of what's out there, textbook-wise. Unfortunately. For some reason, I'm thinking you live in CA, Lorraine? One thing I think is an advantage here is the ethnic/religious diversity- schools have to be more aware of these things because there is a diverse population of non-meat eaters, each with their own set of rules. My daughter is currently in 1st grade, and we've had nary an issue. But as you've found out, researching all of this, tons of people arrive at homeschooling for a variety of reasons. I figure each family has to work out what is best for them. Good luck, and let me know how it goes! j. ________________________________ Lorraine <ldemi <ldemi%40ucsd.edu> > @gro <%40> ups.com Sun, March 28, 2010 1:02:11 PM RE: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Hi Jenni, Yes, we’ve been looking at local charter schools that supervise homeschooling. I like this as an option. I like that we can drop in or out of classroom services as we want them, get the educational units (EU) funds to pay for materials or other classes or field trips, and our local charter schools have curricula libraries we can borrow from and not have to buy them, and resource rooms that I hear are like Lakeshore Learning Stores where you can borrow manipulatives and stuff for your homeschooling! (Is it crazy that I’m so excited about that resource room!?) :-) And yes, the activities and field trips are alluring, too. I’m liking this option as I research all this! And I just got on homeschool , too. What did we do before ? :-) Oh, also, have you found standard school curriculum that is vegetarian/earth friendly? I’d love to have tips before we visit schools! Thanks for your views on all this – very helpful! Lorraine @gro ups.com [@gro ups.com] On Behalf Of jenni claire garverick Saturday, March 27, 2010 11:00 PM @gro ups.com Re: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools You might also check out your local area... if you're uncomfortable with homeschooling 100% of the time, there are often charter schools, etc. run through your local district, created for homeschoolers, where you can take your child to class just a day or two a week...or just to (insert individual subject here). Some will even give you funds for your own use. A friend of mine does homeschooling here that gives her $1500 a year to use for materials... plus PLENTY of activities/ field trips. Really, the possibilities are endless. There are many homeschool groups on . I myself belong to several of them. good luck! j. ____________ _________ _________ __ Lorraine <ldemi <ldemi%40ucsd.edu> <ldemi% 40ucsd.edu> > @gro <% 40. com> ups.com Fri, March 26, 2010 8:19:26 PM RE: Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Hi Huyen, Well, there are homeschool programs that are supervised online – I’m sure someone’s doing co-op classes online with skype or something! :-) haha. And yeah, I’ll keep you posted … we’re looking today at state education standards that kids are to meet at different grades, and seeing that our son already has at least ½ of the kindergarten stuff down, before even starting the year … so kindergarten won’t be hard for us to homeschool. The hard part will be me fitting everything into my over-harried schedule of WAHM, co-op parent/homeschool parent (if that’s who I become), runner of the household, etc. Still balancing all that like slippery mango on a spinning plate. :-) I e’d with a homeschooling WAHM friend today who said that it’ll all work out somehow, it always does for them. And I realized some other vegetarian reasons that homeschooling will be helpful for us – never have to deal with “meat = protein” in the nutrition lessons, and never have to deal with biology dissection or even having to do release forms. Hmmm, interesting. Have a great day, Lorraine @gro ups.com [@ gro ups.com] On Behalf Of Huyen Friday, March 26, 2010 11:38 AM @gro ups.com Re: vegetarianism and teachers/schools Dawn and Lorraine, I'd definitely be in on the veg homeschooling coop! It is unfortunate how distance prevents us. My current idea is to let my daughter do preschool, maybe kindergarten- 2nd (before she stops enjoying school). I love our preschool and <gasp> the few hours I get to be kid-free. We have only had minor issues at this point but our school has the kids bring their own food so that helps. K-2nd may be a whole new ballgame. But I've been considering the homeschooling for about a year... still undecided since part of me wants to go back to work. Keep me posted on your decisions, please! Huyen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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