Homeschooling in California

When I first heard about the ruling from the California Court of Appeals that they had declared that almost all forms of homeschooling in California was in violation of state law, I actually didn't give it much thought. What crossed my mind was there they go again. I knew the ruling would be automatically appealed and until such time that someone came to my door to tell me I could no longer home school my child, I would just keep on doing what I have been doing. Most would think it is lackadaisical on my part to not be concerned, but I really wasn't. I guess it comes from being familiar with the legal process and knowing that one courts decision is not the final word.

The Home School Legal Defense Association has decided they will file an amicus brief on behalf of all their member families (which we are part of) to ask for a proper interpretation of the law and if that fails, ask that the decision be depublished. Depublishing the law means the decision will apply only to the family the lawsuit was brought against and not all home schoolers. HSLDA also has a petition on their website to sign in support of depublishing the case.

The family is filing an appeal, as expected and in all things with the court system, will take some time.

I found an article today in the LA Times about Governor Schwarznegger weighing in and declaring "

"Every California child deserves a quality education and parents should have the right to decide what’s best for their children. Parents should not be penalized for acting in the best interests of their children's education. This outrageous ruling must be overturned by the courts and if the courts don't protect parents' rights then, as elected officials, we will."

I was surprised Jack O'Connell, superintendent of California Department of Education also spoke in support of home schoolers. However, I'm sure due to the fact that many celebrities home school or have their children tutored, their voices will have a big impact as well.

Dr. James Dobson spoke about the ruling on his radio broadcast friday in defense of home schooling.

I am confident the ruling will be overturned and life will go on as we know it. If you are a California home schooler and currently not a member of the Home Defense Legal Defense Association or any other association, now may be the time to join. Then you will have the confidence your rights are being protected.


Associations

Home School Legal Defense Association

Christian Home Educators Association of California

California Homeschool Network

Homeschool Association of California

Family Protection Ministries