Jackson 16-year-old graduates high school through specialized homeschool program
Devin Seymour,16, graduated from high school last month through WTHSA-Home Life Academy, which nurtured his pace of learning and interests.
Graduating a couple of years earlier than many of his peers, seemed to suit him, his parents said because of the individualized instruction he received through a rigorous homeschool program.
During his traditional studies, Seymour showed signs of boredom, sickness and general malaise because of not being challenged, which got the attention of his parents, Quazi Smith and Tamika Cobb, they said.
When Seymour started the homeschool program when he was in the fifth grade, his father knew there was something special about him.
"My son said that he hated school and was not being challenged," Smith said. "We were told he would be in special programs but that was not true. In fifth grade, he would cry and as his parents, we refused to go through this with him being upset."
WTHSA-Home Life Academy is a non-traditional K-12 private school and ministry. It was founded to give homeschoolers and their parents educational access and support from anywhere in the world. Parents are allowed to teach what they want on their own schedules, using a style that is appropriate for their child.
The benefits of homeschooling consists of academic flexibility for both the parent and the student. Students who might be a little more strong-willed, creative, challenging, gifted or active may benefit more from a homeschooling environment, some parents say. Students are able to focus on life skills, their passion and even prepping for a vocation or entrepreneurship.
Seymour expanded on his athleticism and learned the sport of archery. He was also able to fish and learn how to change a tire and oil.
"Home Life Academy was under a church umbrella, and the school supported home schooling and allowed us to teach," said Cobb. "We came up with our own curriculum, purchased books and taught our son."
Seymour has received a high school diploma and has been accepted into five institutions of higher learning. Those institutions include The University of Memphis, Grambling State University, Morehouse College, Southern University and Tennessee State University.
Seymour has not made his final decision yet, but for now, he will continue to explore life through his hobbies, cruising the city and spending time with family and friends.
Katrina Smith is an education reporter at The Jackson Sun. Send those story ideas or connect with Katrina via email, kmsmith@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Jackson Sun: Devin Seymour, 16 year old, graduates, high school, home schooled program
