Connecticut Homeschooling Hearing explores student education options and data trends

The Homeschooling Informational Hearing convened by the Connecticut State Legislature on May 5, 2025, aimed to foster an open dialogue regarding the educational rights and responsibilities of families choosing homeschooling. The meeting featured a diverse group of speakers, including policymakers, advocacy organizations, school administrators, and members of the homeschooling community, highlighting the significant interest in this topic.

The session began with an acknowledgment of the successful homeschooling families in Connecticut, noting that these students often achieve high scores on the GED test. The discussion then shifted to the legal framework governing education in the state, specifically Section 10-184 of the General Statutes, which mandates that parents ensure their children receive an appropriate education, either through public schooling or equivalent instruction elsewhere, including homeschooling.

Key points of the law were outlined, including the age requirements for compulsory education, exceptions for withdrawal, and the process for parents to officially withdraw their children from public school. The Commissioner emphasized the department's efforts to provide guidance to school districts and homeschooling families, including sample withdrawal forms and recommended practices for collaboration.

Ajita Palakrishnan, the Chief Performance Officer, presented data on student exits from public schools, categorizing reasons such as transfers to private schools, moves out of state, and withdrawals for homeschooling. The data revealed that approximately 1,800 students exit public schools annually for homeschooling, representing less than half a percent of total enrollment. In contrast, around 38,000 students graduate each year, and about 11,000 move out of Connecticut.

The meeting also addressed the challenges in tracking students who leave public schools, particularly those who may not re-enroll in any educational setting. The department's ongoing efforts to follow up on incomplete transfers and ensure students are accounted for were highlighted.

In conclusion, the hearing underscored the importance of understanding the dynamics of homeschooling within the broader educational landscape of Connecticut. The discussions set the stage for future conversations about policies and practices that support both homeschooling families and the public education system. Further follow-up actions and discussions are anticipated as the state continues to navigate the complexities of educational choice.