Unraveling the Diploma Dilemma Louisiana’s Unapproved Schools Offer a Budget-friendly Shortcut for a Pricey Piece of Paper

Obtain a High School Diploma for only $465 Without Attending Classes Exploring Louisiana's Unapproved School Phenomenon

It was supposed to be her golden ticket, the key to unlocking better-paying job opportunities. After being expelled from high school and working in factories for eight long years to support her children, Arliya Martin believed that a high school diploma would open doors for her. Little did she know, she would receive a degree without taking any classes or passing any tests. In fact, she got her diploma from a school where students can purchase a high school education for the bargain price of $465.

Now, you may be wondering, “How is this even possible?” It turns out that in Louisiana, nearly 9,000 private schools don’t need state approval to grant degrees. These unapproved schools, which were initially created to serve homeschooling families, have become a rapidly growing trend in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As public school enrollment plummeted by over 1.2 million students, families across the nation started seeking alternative options for education.

Louisiana’s off-the-grid school system is a prime example of this educational exodus. With over 21,000 students enrolled in unapproved schools, the number has nearly doubled since before the pandemic. But here’s the catch – there’s no way to determine the quality of education these students are receiving, if any at all.

To some, this lack of state oversight is exactly what makes these schools appealing. Supporters argue that it’s all about parental rights and the freedom to choose how their children are educated. Take Springfield Preparatory School, for instance. Billing itself as an umbrella school for Christian homeschoolers, this institution offers a diploma to anyone whose parents claim they were homeschooled, even if it happened years ago. Principal Kitty Sibley Morrison believes in empowering parents and sees her school as a lifeline for homeschooling families.

But let’s dig deeper into the mechanics of these unapproved schools. Essentially, they operate as “lifetime services for homeschooling families,” according to Sibley Morrison. However, you might find it amusing that their services come with price tags. For instance, a diploma from Springfield Preparatory School will set you back $250, and that’s not including the application fee, diploma cover, or the extravagant opportunity to walk across the stage in a cap and gown for an additional $130.

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These unapproved private schools are popping up all over Louisiana. With whimsical names like the “Ballerina Jedi Academy” and the “Unicorn Princess School,” these institutions range from tiny home schools to ones with classrooms, teachers, and dozens of students. However, their existence is shrouded in mystery, as there is no way for the government to verify their safety, quality, or even their existence.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. Isn’t there a system in place to ensure the legitimacy of these schools? Well, there are two options for homeschooling in Louisiana. Parents can either enroll their child in the state-recognized home study program, which requires documentation and adherence to certain educational standards, or they can establish their own private school without any approval or oversight. It seems that the latter option has become quite popular, as families embrace the freedom to educate their children as they see fit.

But hold on a second! There have been reports of abuse scandals in some of these unapproved schools, such as the notorious T.M. Landry in Breaux Bridge. This school made headlines when it was discovered that they had abused students and falsified transcripts to secure admission into Ivy League schools. And what’s worse, the state’s Department of Education claims that it has no authority to intervene or take any action against these unapproved schools.

Despite the risks and uncertainties surrounding these unregulated educational institutions, families continue to flock to them. They have become a refuge for those who feel disillusioned with the traditional public school system. From parents seeking flexibility and freedom to students tired of unfair discipline and post-pandemic chaos, these unapproved schools offer an alternative path.

Take Jamie Vander Meulen, for instance. She started her own unapproved private school for her three daughters, who have dyslexia. Their unique educational journey involves a mix of homeschooling and enrichment classes at Springfield Preparatory School. And according to her daughters, school is not just fun; it’s artsy and magical. They get to learn at their own pace, dive deeper into subjects they love, and retain knowledge like never before.

But not everyone is thrilled with the idea of unapproved schools. Critics argue that backdating diplomas, claiming state approval when there is none, and operating without proper oversight is fraudulent and misleading. They highlight the risks of unchecked educational institutions and the potential pitfalls for students seeking higher education or employment opportunities.

With the state’s Department of Education unable to provide any reassurances or establish accountability, some question the future of Louisiana’s off-the-grid school system. Will it continue to operate in the shadows, free from regulations and standards? Only time will tell.

So, my dear readers, what are your thoughts on this alternative education movement in Louisiana? Are unapproved schools a solution to the problems in the traditional public school system, or are they a cause for concern? Share your opinions and let’s dive into a spirited discussion about the future of education.