The Growing Debate Over Homeschool regulation: A State-by-State Look
Homeschooling is on the rise, fueled by a desire for individualized education and growing concerns about customary school environments. But as more families choose to educate their children at home, a critical question emerges: how much oversight – if any – should states have? This article dives into the varying regulations across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, exploring the arguments for and against increased homeschool accountability, and what it means for your family.
The Rise of Homeschooling & Why Regulation Matters
The number of children being homeschooled has surged in recent years. Factors like pandemic-related school closures, dissatisfaction with curriculum, and a desire for greater control over a child’s learning surroundings are all contributing to this trend. However, this growth has also sparked debate about ensuring the quality of education and, crucially, the safety of homeschooled children.
While many homeschooling parents are dedicated educators, instances of abuse hidden under the guise of homeschooling – like the disturbing case in Gloucester County, New Jersey – highlight the potential risks. This is why understanding the regulatory landscape in your state is so crucial.
pennsylvania: A Model of Regulation
Pennsylvania currently has some of the most robust homeschool regulations in the nation. Hear’s a breakdown of what you need to know if you’re homeschooling in the Keystone State:
Annual Affidavit: Families must file an annual affidavit with their school district, outlining their educational plan.
Health Records: Submission of health records is also required. Evaluations: At the end of each school year, a certified evaluator reviews the student’s work.
Superintendent Approval: The local school district superintendent must sign off on the evaluation, providing a final layer of oversight.
This system, while demanding, offers a degree of assurance that homeschooled children are receiving an adequate education. As Ardmore, PA homeschooler Sarah Toner explains, the evaluation process can even be beneficial. “It’s kind of nice to have a second set of eyes just sort of validating the work that we’ve put in.”
Toner,who homeschools her children in second,fourth,and sixth grade,demonstrates the commitment many parents have to providing a quality education. Despite a background in public health, not education, she embraces the challenge, stating, “I basically just stay one step ahead.” She currently teaches subjects like Shakespeare,Roman history (framed as citizenship education),and even paper sloyd – a precursor to geometry.
New Jersey: A Landscape of Minimal Oversight
In stark contrast to Pennsylvania, New Jersey operates with a remarkably hands-off approach to homeschooling. The state’s Department of Education website explicitly states that parents are solely responsible for the educational outcomes of their children, and local school boards are not required to monitor those outcomes.
This means:
No Reporting Requirements: Families are not required to notify the state or local school districts that they are homeschooling.
No Evaluations: There are no mandated evaluations of student progress.
No Oversight: The state does not track the number of homeschoolers or their educational attainment.
This lack of regulation is precisely what’s prompting concern from lawmakers like New Jersey Senator Paul Moriarty.
The Push for Change in New Jersey
Senator Moriarty’s call for increased oversight stems from the aforementioned case of abuse in Gloucester County. He believes that minimal regulation creates a potential blind spot for vulnerable children.
His proposed legislation includes:
Annual Meetings: Requiring homeschool families to meet annually with the district superintendent.
Wellness Checks: Allowing school districts to conduct wellness checks to ensure the safety of homeschooled children.
academic Requirements: Introducing academic standards similar to those in Pennsylvania.
Though, Moriarty’s proposals have been met with strong opposition from the homeschooling community, who fear government overreach.He reported receiving approximately 500 calls from concerned parents.
What Does This Mean for You?
The debate over homeschool regulation is complex, with valid arguments on both sides.
If you are a homeschooling parent:
Know Your State’s Laws: Familiarize yourself with the specific regulations in your state.
Advocate for Your Beliefs: engage in the conversation and make your voice heard.
