People often think that cyber school students lack socialization. As the mother of a student who attends a public cyber school, I can attest: that has not been our experience.

I am a stay-at-home mom with three children. My oldest is a second grader who has been enrolled at PA Cyber since kindergarten, and my two younger children are not yet school-aged. Prior to becoming a stay-at-home mom, I utilized my psychology degree, most recently as a supervisor for a team that coordinated care for disabled individuals.

My husband and I made the choice, after our youngest was born, for me to become a stay-at-home mom and focus on raising my children as well as playing a hands-on role in my oldest daughter’s (and eventually our other two) schooling. During National School Choice Week, I’m grateful for the dynamic interaction opportunities available to us, the growth I’ve witnessed, and my part in our daughter’s education journey.

While much of the learning takes place in our home, we take advantage of so many in-person events, like field trips for students and families. In fact, at one point last year, we attended field trips weekly. Not only did all my children develop friendships, I also made friends and built a network with other PA Cyber parents. Being a stay-at-home mom, these friendships were much needed.

We have also taken our daughter (who has wanted to be a vet since she could walk and talk) to “Little Vet School,” which was offered at PA Cyber’s Allentown Regional Office. Our daughter also often plays virtual bingo with peers across Pennsylvania – this is one of her favorite activities.

During the school day, live classes are also a great opportunity for engagement. For example, at the beginning of each class, her teacher gives time for students to talk to each other, and they offer engaging touchpoints, such as show-and-tell, dressing up as your favorite book character, and showing your favorite pet. Students can socialize at the end of the live class period, as well.

Having talked to friends and relatives whose children attend brick and mortar schools, I’ve learned that there isn’t as much socialization throughout the day as one would expect. According to the Springboard to Active Schools, up to 40% of school districts across the nation have reduced or cut recess since the mid-2000s. In the U.S., only nine states require daily recess, to which Pennsylvania is not one, according to the State Policy Database. Once these students move onto middle school, recess is removed.

Each child learns and thrives differently, so for our family, it works. Some of the benefits I have personally witnessed with my daughter is how well she has excelled in school, making honor roll every year. As a parent, I also feel empowered – I have a hand in her schooling, as I am a part of her teaching team. This intimate approach to school ensures that she is learning and retaining the material. If she has trouble understanding the lessons, I have teachers, school staff, and tutors who I can easily contact for help. Plus, due to the pacing of PA Cyber, we can have that much-needed family time that we are not guaranteed every weekend due to my husband’s work schedule. We are also able to travel to see family in different states all while still being able to continue schoolwork!

School choice is so important to my husband and me. It enables us to have a say in and an understanding of our child’s schooling, ensures we get those precious moments together, and offers a variety of ways for her – and our family – to connect with others.

Michelle Blommel She is from the Schuylkill area. There are nine regional PA Cyber Charter offices across the state, with the nearest being in Erie.