Off Topic - California Ruling
This is off topic, apologies. Most of you know that we homeschool, and I know that a lot of you homeschool. If you watch the news at all, you've probably heard about the California ruling that has homeschoolers everywhere in an uproar. The ruling is on a child abuse case, and states that parents may only teach their children at home if they have a teaching degree. This ruling was made even though nothing in the California law requires this of homeschoolers. Essentially the judge is attempting to write the law. Last time I looked the judicial branch was to interpret the law, not write it.
The governor and the head of the state's education department have assured the parents of homeschoolers that they have no intention of coming after parents who choose to homeschool, but do not have a degree in education. Even if the state does not enforce the ruling made by the judge, having the ruling stand is problematic. It creates a precedent that would jeopardize homeschooling parents rights, and may be enforced by future administrations that are not sympathetic to homeschoolers and the rights of parents to choose what is best for their children.
What can we do? The case is currently in appeal to the state supreme court. Certainly the court is not obligated to adhere to our requests, but we can voice our opinion. Voicing our opinion not only speaks to the court in the current issue, but also to politicians, judges, and people everywhere. You can voice your opinion by signing a petition like that found at Reverse The Ruling - Homeschoolers Unite, you can write about it on your blog, send emails, or just spread the news. The state does not know what is best for our children. Voice your opinion!
6 comments:
For what it's worth, the ruling was actually based on precedent. Homeschooling was outlawed in CA in the 1950s. A significant part of the homeschool community actually developed through the loopholes of that bad ruling. As a former homeschooler and CA resident, I'm not too concerned about this situation, even though I am disappointed. The public education system in CA is terrible. I could name half a dozen schools of the top of my head that would be closed if they did not have "independent study" students (read "homeschoolers") to boost their test scores. It is in the financial best interest of the public school system to support homeschooling.
Now that is interesting. Thanks for filling the gaps a bit.The states I've lived in school lose money b/c of homeschooling, but I guess the difference is the "independent study" Thanks!
People can also find more info at Home School Legal Defense. This site was recommended to me to find out all the legal requirements and it seems great.
Here in Florida, anyone with a 4-yr degree can become a certified teacher by taking a few extra tests/classes. I am considering this route as well.
As a homeschool mom AND former teacher...I still don't understand why people are so threatened by those who homeschool.
Why does it matter to them how we educate our children?
Let me tell you...it has to do with money. We have been told that we are costing our local school about $3,700 per year per child...we have 5! So they are out nearly $19,000 per year because we choose to homeschool.
Fortunatly, no one has been rude to us, but the attack on homeschooling IS coming. Too many people are pulling their kids out and giving them a better education.
Okay, I'm off my soapbox...we are praying for California homeschoolers.
Blessings
I also heard about the hslda.org website through Focus on the Family. I signed the petition there. I'll sign this other petition, too, just to be safe :)
Becca,
Yes that is a great place for info!
Jennifer,
That is how it works in the two states we've lived too, the schools are out money for our kids.
Becky,
It can't hurt!
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