Audrey asks

Audrey Asks... A homeschooler!

BY SARAH MEAD WITH AUDREY MEAD

Audrey is a curious ten-year-old who wants to learn more about everything. She is searching for kids in the Rochester area who are doing big things.

Today, she interviews ten-year-old Allison Hanna who homeschools in Webster. Alli loves French fries, Frozen, pop music and country. She lives with her mom, dad, one older brother, and younger brother/sister twins. She has a cat named Hazel. Chemistry and physics are her favorite subjects.

Allison Hanna

How long have you been homeschooling and why did you start?

Since kindergarten. My older brother was being homeschooled and my parents decided to try it with me too. We talk about it each year together to decide what the best choice is for me.

What subjects do you learn and who teaches you?

Math, language arts, modern history, chemistry, physics, Spanish, art, music, health, and physical education. I do independent learning for a lot of things, and my mom teaches, too.

Do you have to buy a lot of supplies? Not really. A few books, pencils, and paper. I use my computer to see what my assignments are.

What about tests? Do you still have to take them?

I take quizzes but not big tests.

Is homeschooling challenging enough for you?

Yes. I get to help pick some of my subjects and we can go as fast or as slow as I need to.

What are the advantages of being homeschooled?

Being able to do my classes on my own schedule. Being able to split up the work throughout the day and do things like nature walks, visiting museums, or playing outside.

Are there any disadvantages?

Not spending time with my friends during the school day.

Is it hard to make friends?

No. I go to a lot of different places and events where I make friends. I also have a lot of friends who live in my neighborhood.

Do your siblings homeschool too?

My big brother was until sixth grade. He goes to public school now. My little siblings learn at home.

How long is your school day? Do you have a schedule?

There isn’t a time limit. Generally, my classes take about thirty minutes each. Sometimes longer. Sometimes less. I don’t have all my classes every single day. I have a general schedule, but homeschooling is flexible so it can be different every day.

That sounds like so much fun! Do you get to sleep in?

I can but I like to wake up at 6:45 a.m. each morning.

What are your favorite hobbies?

Arts and crafts, reading, gymnastics, and styling hair.

Do you have any hidden talents? I can make my tongue into a star shape. I’m really good at art, and I can play the guitar. I am super flexible and good at body contortion.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

An interior designer!