Homeschool advocates push Tennessee Senate to pass Free Act for educational freedom

The Senate Education Committee convened on March 5, 2025, to discuss the proposed Free Act, aimed at expanding homeschooling freedoms in Tennessee. The meeting featured testimonies from several advocates for homeschooling, emphasizing the need for less government oversight and greater parental autonomy in education.

Samuel Johnson, an attorney with the Homeschool Legal Defense Association, opened the session by highlighting the historical significance of educational freedom in the United States. He argued that parents have the primary responsibility for their children's education, a belief supported by both historical legal traditions and Supreme Court rulings. Johnson urged Tennessee to join the growing number of states that have enacted similar legislation, advocating for the removal of notification and assessment requirements for homeschoolers.

Mariah Ivy, a veteran homeschooler with 19 years of experience, followed Johnson's testimony. She expressed her support for the Free Act, noting that it would simplify the homeschooling process by eliminating bureaucratic requirements. Ivy shared her personal journey and the success of her children in a homeschooling environment, emphasizing the importance of parental choice and autonomy in education.

Sandy Derek, another homeschool advocate, reinforced the idea that parents know their children's educational needs best. He argued for the necessity of the Free Act to ensure that homeschooling families can operate without government interference, particularly in light of the complexities surrounding public funding and accountability.

During the meeting, committee members posed questions regarding the implications of the Free Act on college admissions for homeschooled students. Ivy reassured them that current testing processes, such as the ACT and SAT, accommodate independent homeschoolers, allowing them to pursue higher education without hindrance.

The testimonies collectively underscored a strong desire among homeschooling advocates for Tennessee to adopt the Free Act, positioning the state as a leader in educational freedom. The committee's discussions will likely influence future legislative actions regarding homeschooling regulations in Tennessee.