Following the tumultuous years of the coronavirus pandemic, homeschooling has experienced a remarkable surge across the United States. A recent report from Johns Hopkins University reveals that 19 out of 21 states reported increases in homeschooling participation for the 2023-2024 academic year. While the specific reasons for this growth remain unclear, experts point to a combination of concerns about educational quality, indoctrination fears, and a desire for greater educational freedom.
In the wake of the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, families across the country are increasingly turning to homeschooling as an alternative to traditional public education. A recent report from the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy's Homeschool Research Lab paints a clear picture of this burgeoning trend.
Homeschooling Surges Post-Pandemic, Driven by Concerns and Desire for Freedom
Among the 21 states that reported their homeschooling participation rates for the 2023-2024 school year, only two showed a decline. The other 19 states experienced increases ranging from modest to significant. Georgia, for instance, saw a 2% rise in homeschooling, while Delaware's increase was a substantial 29%. Alarmingly, only 30 states currently track their homeschooling numbers.
While the exact reasons for the homeschooling boom remain unknown, experts suggest a confluence of factors may be at play. The pandemic undoubtedly disrupted traditional schooling, forcing parents to reassess their educational options. Some families discovered that homeschooling offered greater flexibility, personalized learning, and a safer environment for their children.
Homeschooling Surges Post-Pandemic, Driven by Concerns and Desire for Freedom
Moreover, concerns about the quality of public education and the perception of leftist indoctrination in schools have also played a role in driving parents towards homeschooling. The ongoing debate over critical race theory and gender identity has fueled fears that public schools are becoming platforms for political activism rather than academic excellence.
Educational Freedom Institute Director Corey DeAngelis attributes the surge in homeschooling to the actions of teachers unions, particularly the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). He accuses the unions of exacerbating parental concerns by resisting school reopenings and advocating for controversial policies.
Homeschooling Surges Post-Pandemic, Driven by Concerns and Desire for Freedom
"The unions showed their true colors and pushed more families to embrace homeschooling long-term. Families saw the leftist indoctrination happening in public schools through ‘remote learning’ and many of them became more confident in their ability to homeschool," DeAngelis told Fox News Digital.
The growth of homeschooling is part of a broader trend towards school choice. Families are increasingly seeking alternatives to traditional public education, including charter and magnet schools. In the context of homeschooling, the rise of online learning platforms and curriculum providers has made it easier for families to facilitate their own educational programs.
Homeschooling Surges Post-Pandemic, Driven by Concerns and Desire for Freedom
"The power-hungry unions held children’s education hostage by fighting to keep schools closed as long as possible to secure billions of dollars in ransom payments from taxpayers," DeAngelis added.
The American Federation of Teachers did not respond to a request for comment.
