I always find it baffling that anyone would think they're qualified to homeschool. Even at junior high level, are you qualified to teach English and literature, a foreign language (ideally two), maths, physics, chemistry, biology, intro to IT, history/geography, civics, intro to arts and music, and PE? I doubt those morons who homeschool are remotely qualified to teach even a single one of those topics properly.

Me, too! My parents are geniuses, but if they homeschooled me, I don't think I would have gotten much further than arithmetic in math. I'd kick ass in humanities, though!

I know, right?!?!?! Kids need to learn penmanship, whittling and the use of a slide rule to compete in today's job market.

it is valuable, but it is pretty specific in the job market. While it can be used to teach proper format and grade overall ability, and distinct lack of in areas, it isn't the main focus. punctuation (which I fail at alot I day to day life), spelling, sentence forming, vocabulary and use of the right words for the interaction are all more important than essay formating most times. unless OP is being trained for a specific office job I would say he need practical skills more. the ability to tailor your resume to the field and employer is important, you don't write a 5 page essay for most labour jobs, skilled or unskilled, you give the generally very busy interviewer a list of qualifications, and experience and they get a feel for you as a person.