Warning
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Folks, I got the following from a group I belong to. I have no idea if this is genuine or not, but I post it here anyway for two reasons: 1. it could very well be, and 2. it warns us about being too talkative in general, and that's critically important because talking to the wrong person can endanger our families, so following the recommendations in this message is worthwhile regardless.
Homeschooler's Beware! The homeschool community has been under attack for the last decade. During this time a man called John, using a variety of last names has been calling the homes of homeschoolers. He follows the same pattern every time always with the goal to get a woman to talk about her experiences with corporal punishment. BE WARNED. The pattern he follows is this. He will call local churches and homeschool organizations saying that he is moving to the area and would like to be put in touch with a conservative homeschool family to ask some questions about homeschooling in their area. Usually the number is gladly supplied or information volunteered that this pastor's family homeschools.. Calls from this man are usually made during the day. "John" will begin the conversation by asking all the normal questions you would expect of someone relocating to a new community. The questions include: How many people homeschool in the area, how long have you homeschooled, what curriculum do you use, do you like it, would you recommend it, etc. He will often ask for the names of other conservative churches or homeschoolers in your area. Then he will begin to tell you about himself and his family and bring the conversation around to discussing forms of discipline. The questions will rapidly become very personal in nature. If you are the unlucky person who admits to being a pastor's daughter, he will ask you if you were ever spanked as a child, with what, for how long, did it hurt and how bad did it hurt. "John" may ask about your personal discipline choices and want details, very explicit details. These calls will continue to your home until you refuse to answer his questions AT ALL. Being polite does not work, evading the question and trying to turn the conversation does not work. This man is not interested in your church or area or homeschool group. He is simply interested in his own sick agenda. Do not be fooled! If you want to help, receive or have received one of these calls here are some things you can do. 1) Contact the HSLDA 540-338-5600 and report it. Their legal department at HSLDA has been working on this for the last 10 years. 2) Contact your local homeschool group to let people know about this. With your help we can warn every homeschool family in the country and make it very difficult for this man to create any more victims. 3) Tell your pastor or church association about this, they should warn their member churches and their congregations. Being prepared is your best defense. Think about what you would say if someone called your home wanting personal information about your family. You may even wish to write a statement to keep near the phone to answer any invasive questions. Do not be afraid of offending this man, go ahead, BE RUDE. This man does not deserve your respect. by Cheryl Eggers April 8, 2002 I am NOT copywriting this article so that it can be sent to as many people as possible and used as much as possible.Back to homeschool index
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