Nebraska law aims to clarify sports participation for homeschool students

A pivotal discussion on the rights of homeschool students took center stage during the Nebraska Legislature's Education Committee meeting on March 3, 2025. The committee examined a proposed bill aimed at clarifying participation rules for part-time students in extracurricular activities, particularly in light of recent interpretations by the Gretna School District.

Parents voiced concerns that current regulations limit homeschool students to only one class, which in turn restricts their ability to participate in sports and other activities. One parent highlighted that their junior son, who takes two classes, is barred from participating in any extracurricular activities due to this limitation. "If he took one class, he could participate," the parent explained, underscoring the frustration with the district's interpretation of the law.

Senator Merman, who introduced the bill, emphasized the need for clarity to ensure that part-time students can take multiple classes without losing the opportunity to engage in sports. "We want to give students the most opportunities possible, no matter how they're educated," he stated. The bill aims to rectify what many see as a misinterpretation of the law, which has led to inconsistent application across different districts.

The meeting also featured testimony from students, including seventh-grader Ethan Finley, who expressed a desire to play sports while taking multiple classes. "I want to make sure that I can participate and take a couple of classes," he said, reflecting the sentiments of many homeschool families seeking more flexibility.

As the committee deliberates, the proposed legislation could significantly impact the educational landscape for homeschool families in Nebraska, potentially allowing for greater participation in school activities and a more inclusive approach to education. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential amendments to ensure that the bill effectively addresses the concerns raised by parents and students alike.