Illinois Parents and Lawmakers Raise Concerns Over Proposed Homeschooling Legislation
A former principal, Mandy Davis, has become a strong supporter of school choice after leaving her job to homeschool her children. In Illinois, conservative lawmakers are voicing concerns about a proposed bill that could significantly alter homeschooling regulations.
The proposed legislation, known as the Homeschool Act or HB2827, would require homeschooling parents to complete a "homeschool declaration form," effectively registering their children with the local public school district. If parents fail to submit this form, their children could be labeled as "truant," with penalties applied. Additionally, the bill mandates that children participating in public school activities provide proof of immunizations and health exams, or a Certificate of Religious Exemption.
The bill outlines specific requirements for homeschool administrators and programs, along with reporting obligations. It also proposes changes to the Freedom of Information Act, the School Code, and the Illinois School Student Records Act, including mandatory registration of nonpublic schools with the State Board of Education.
The Illinois State Board of Education's Education Policy Committee is set to review the bill, but opponents are urging the public to submit witness slips to prevent its advancement. Illinois state senator Neil Anderson announced that 30,000 witness slips have already been submitted in opposition.
"Make your voice heard and protect our right to homeschool!" urged Chris Miller, a Republican representative, who criticized the bill as an attack on family rights.
Some Democrats, like Illinois state representative La Shawn Ford, also oppose the bill, citing concerns over the loss of parental autonomy in choosing homeschooling to control their children's education and curriculum.
The bill's requirement for homeschooling parents to register their children with public school districts has sparked significant debate across the state.