Michelle Summitt’s journey from a thriving IT career to becoming a passionate homeschooling advocate is both inspiring and enlightening. Her story offers a unique perspective on how professional skills can be repurposed to create a fulfilling family-centered lifestyle. As someone who transitioned from the fast-paced world of IT to the nurturing environment of homeschooling, Michelle demonstrates how a methodical approach can be applied to education, particularly in adapting to different learning styles. This transition also reflects a broader shift in priorities, focusing on quality family time and personalized education, especially in a faith-driven context.
Michelle’s journey began with a desire for early retirement, which led her family to reevaluate their life priorities. This revaluation highlighted the importance of spending quality time with her sons and providing them with a personalized education. Her background in IT allowed her to apply a methodical approach to homeschooling, catering to her sons’ unique learning styles. Michelle’s older son, being a reflection of her structured nature, benefits from this organized approach, while her younger son requires a more patient and compassionate teaching style, mirroring her husband’s personality.
From IT to Homeschooling: Flexibility & Biblical Values
Homeschooling offers the flexibility to incorporate biblical values into daily learning. Michelle emphasizes the importance of nurturing children’s spiritual growth alongside their academic development. Through family devotions, Bible verse recitations, and gratitude activities, Michelle integrates faith into her children’s education, reinforcing the significance of spiritual learning in their everyday lives. This approach not only cultivates a peaceful and joyful home environment but also helps her children grow into godly individuals, prepared to navigate life’s challenges with faith.
Michelle’s practical approach to homeschooling includes embracing outdoor activities and experiential learning. She advocates for meeting children at their developmental level and providing hands-on learning experiences. This philosophy is exemplified by her incorporation of forest school activities, which allow her sons to learn through interaction with nature. Such experiences foster active learning and help children develop essential life skills, emphasizing the idea that education extends beyond traditional classroom settings.
In addressing the challenges faced by homeschooling families, Michelle discusses the societal pressures on women to achieve perfection. She advocates for prioritizing meaningful family interactions over maintaining a flawless home. By focusing on intentional living and reducing time spent on social media, Michelle fosters deep relationships within her family, emphasizing the value of nurturing children’s unique paths.
Tennessee Homeschooling Resource
Michelle’s dedication to community support is evident in her efforts to build a faith-based homeschooling community in East Tennessee. She created the Tennessee Homeschool website as a resource for new homeschooling families, offering guidance on navigating state regulations and access to local co-ops. This platform also highlights discounts and resources available to homeschooling families, encouraging community involvement and shared faith.
Her vision extends beyond her family’s homeschooling journey, as she and her husband aspire to counsel couples in their church community. This goal reflects the integral role of faith in Michelle’s life, guiding her through challenges and inspiring her to support others. Michelle’s story underscores the impact of faith-driven education and community support in raising children and navigating life’s complexities.
Michelle’s journey from IT professional to homeschooling advocate exemplifies the courage to redefine life priorities and focus on what truly matters. Her story serves as an inspiration to parents considering homeschooling, offering practical advice and insights into integrating faith into education. By sharing her experiences and resources, Michelle empowers families to embrace homeschooling with purpose and passion, fostering a supportive community grounded in faith.
Watch or Listen
The Radiant Mission Podcast | Episode 108
Host: Rebecca Twomey @theradiantmission
Guest: Michelle Summitt
In Episode 108, we learn about Michelle’s journey from IT to homeschooling, and her faith-focused journey.
Bible Verses Mentioned in From IT to Homeschooling:
- Hebrews 4:12
Resources:
- Visit the TN Homeschool Website
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