Two years ago, after putting together my own curriculum for 6 years, I switched to STAA. It was the best decision I've made in 8 years of homeschooling! The STAA curriculum is wonderful, with excellent selections in all the subjects. Their choices - especially in history, grammar, math, and the fine arts - are often texts that I may
never have come across on my own. Having such a well-thought-out curriculum means that a huge burden has been lifted off my shoulders; I no longer have to worry if we're "covering the right things", or "doing enough". I'm confident that by following the STAA program, we are doing just what we should be. At the same time, the program is flexible. When we a have a particular text that we really like, and that's working well for the kids, that's fine with STAA; they're not at all rigid, and always are respectful of each child's individuality and the parents' wishes. They also understand that when you have children of different ages, you need to be able to adapt the program accordingly, which works out beautifully for my children (ages 13, 11, 6, and 4). Another benefit is that record-keeping is far easier now. I used to wonder what I should keep each year, so I ended up keeping almost everything, but without a very good system for it. Now I follow STAA's quarterly reporting system, and at the end of each year I have a complete and succinct portfolio of accomplishments for each child. Finally, the STAA advisors are outstanding. Their insights into my children have been extremely helpful; they really know what it's like to homeschool day in and day out; they are encouraging and supportive, confident that parents can educate their children (even on days when the parent might not be so sure!); they are always professional and courteous. My husband and I are both so thankful for STAA. We couldn't be happier with the program, and would encourage any Catholic homeschool family to give it a try.
(submitted anonymously)