In this episode, Shawn and Kimberly are joined by Paul Lazenby, president of Mother of Divine Grace School, a Catholic homeschooling organization that serves over 6,300 students worldwide. The conversation begins with Paul discussing the remarkable growth his school experienced during the COVID-19 lockdowns, with a 40% increase in enrollment. Many families, particularly those previously unfamiliar with homeschooling, were disappointed by the curriculum they encountered through virtual learning and consequently opted to continue homeschooling, with over 80% of new families choosing this path.
The conversation further explores the increasing recognition of parents' role as primary educators and the transformative nature of a classical Catholic education. Paul highlights how students not only benefit academically but also form a deep bond with their faith through subjects oriented towards God. Additionally, he shares how older siblings often serve as mentors to younger ones, fostering a strong sense of family and community within the homeschooling environment.
The conversation delves into the varying attitudes towards homeschooling in different countries. While some nations, such as Germany, have banned homeschooling altogether, others like Ireland and the UK have seen a rise in its popularity due to concerns about curriculum. Paul emphasizes that Mother of Divine Grace is an accredited institution, and its graduates are accepted into a wide range of colleges, including Catholic universities.
For families who are unable to homeschool or lack access to good Catholic school options, the episode highlights the importance of creating a Domestic Church within the home. Paul explains that Mother of Divine Grace provides valuable support to such families by pairing them with experienced mentor moms and offering curriculum and resources.
Finally, the episode explores the importance of increased father involvement in homeschooling. Paul shares his own excitement about teaching math to his son and reading classics with his daughter. Research indicates that fathers have a significant impact on children's religious faith, and homeschooling allows parents to engage in tag-team learning, further strengthening their bond with their children.