Parents (I guess more specifically USA parents): what are we doing for schooling?

My oldest will not be of compulsory age until next fall, but I want to get my ducks in a row now beforehand. We’re kinda torn between homeschooling and private school at the moment. Mainly: I have no clue what curriculum to use but on the other hand I’m just concerned about my child’s safety. Growing up, acts of extreme violence in school were practically unheard of, and if they did happen, they occurred mainly at high schools/colleges (not that that is any better). But now it’s becoming increasingly more common, in elementary schools and private schools that I’m really concerned about it. I know I can’t “shelter” my children forever, but I’m just so worried about sending them into a place to learn and that being the last time I see them.

With that being said, what exactly has everyone decided on in regard to education for their children? We’re honestly looking at the very least to homeschool the first couple years and then switching our children to our parish’s school (probably around middle/high school or at their request). But I wanted see what others decided and what curriculum they’ve gone with.