CV NEWS FEED // Watchdog organizations are warning that new legislation in Illinois could severely limit educational freedom and the rights of homeschooling parents.
The Homeschool Legal Defense Agency (HSLDA) reported that the bill, introduced on March 13, would require parents to submit an annual notice to the state’s education authorities, providing detailed information about their children such as name, address, and “gender identity.”
It also would allow local public schools to demand portfolios from homeschooled students at any time, for any reason. Parents who do not comply with the new restrictions could face truancy charges that could result in imprisonment or loss of custody.
The American Family Association also warned of the negative consequences of the legislation in a March 28 statement.
“House Bill 2827 is a misguided attempt to impose unnecessary state mandates on homeschool families who are already delivering excellent educational outcomes,” said Jenna Ellis, senior policy advisor for AFA. “This legislation risks undermining environments where children are thriving academically and personally.”
The AFA pointed out that homeschooling allows for an individualized approach tailored to each student’s strengths, weaknesses, and needs. The state’s new legislation, the AFA added, would threaten this individualized approach.
The organization added that multiple studies have shown that homeschooled students excel academically. Ellis stated that these outcomes indicate that new regulations are unnecessary.
“These students are thriving — both academically and developmentally,” said Ellis. “There is no evidence that state interference is needed, and plenty of evidence that it could do real harm.”
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