When God called the disciples to follow Him, they were instructed to drop their nets, leave everything they knew, and follow. Although we may not have “nets” to drop, when God calls His people to GO, much is left behind. Family, friends, belongings, even favorite foods. When God calls families to the field, not only are the parents’ lives changed, but the children’s lives are, too. While saying yes to the Lord is always worth it, it also comes with unique challenges. Case in point: Education. Thankfully, modern missionary families do have some options depending where they are going.

What are the schooling options where you are going? Will you homeschool? What are the requirements in the country you are moving to? How about an international school? Or a boarding school? A missions school? Depending on where you are going, the possibilities are endless… or sometimes there is only one. Missionary families must weigh various educational options to find what best suits their child’s needs and their situation, and this can be exceptionally overwhelming to navigate.

Where to Start?

• Do your research. What are the laws where you are going? Is homeschooling legal? What is the national education system like? Are you going to a city that has international schools? Will language be a barrier to your child’s education? If you have older children, is boarding school an option that might need to be considered? This may seem overwhelming, but reaching out to other expats in the area you are traveling to, or even a quick Google search can answer some of these questions for you. 
• Understand that location matters. If you are traveling to a city, you are likely to have more options than a person traveling to a rural location. 
• Evaluate your values. What does your family value in terms of education? What are the things you are close handed about, and what things can you be open handed about? 
• Evaluate your children. If you are feeling like this is all a lot to process, imagine how your child feels! What are things he or she likes about their current schooling situation? How does your child learn best? How can you carry those things through this time of transition?
• Talk to your sending organization. Many organizations have staff members who are there to help you make decisions that are best for your child. These people are experts on educating children cross culturally. Even if you homeschool in the states and plan to continue that on the field, there are factors that should be considered and need to be processed during this time of transition. Ask questions, ask for support, and listen to their recommendations.