I kind of don't understand this. Is it because you would be given assignments and all that? What happend to teaching children that they just have to do stuff even if they don't want to?
http://www.carolinahomeschooler.com/forums/showthread.php?t=42 has a place for kids to take classes. It is very safe and divided up for younger kids and older teens. They do lots of classes.
I don't think you comment is "too optimistic", Cecily Rose. It's very true, and it's good that you recognize it. We are all responsible for what we make with our life. Sounds like you got a good handle on yours!