You may wonder, how common is homeschooling in the USA? Homeschooling is a rapidly growing trend in America. Since the beginning of the Homeschool Pandemic, the number of American families homeschooling their children has more than doubled or even tripled. This trend has become increasingly popular among white families and is now unregulated in many states. Although the number of homeschoolers has increased since the beginning of the pandemic, some argue that it promotes religious fundamentalism.
Homeschooling has doubled or maybe tripled since the onset of the pandemic
The pandemic has had a profound impact on public school enrollment and homeschooling. Statistics from state-level surveys show dramatic increases, especially in areas where district schools have closed. According to the Massachusetts Globe, homeschooling enrollment jumped by more than seven percent in 2018 and by more than eight percent in 2019.
Among that homeschooling, Black families are making up a significant number. From just 3.3% in 2000 to 16.1% in 2013, the percentage of Black homeschooling families increased fivefold compared to other demographics. In Raleigh, North Carolina, mother Laine Bradley converted her dining room into a classroom and started teaching her children in a room she calls her “student lounge.” The mother, who works in financial services, also added lessons on Caribbean history and financial literacy.
It is unregulated in many states
While homeschooling is legal in many states, the practice of homeschooling is largely unregulated. No state law mandates or restricts the practice, and there is no evidence that a home-schooled child is more likely to suffer from abuse or neglect. However, the deregulated nature of homeschooling can make it easier for abusers to cover their tracks. As a homeschooling parent, it is important to advocate for basic protections.
Some states require homeschoolers to register, and many other states do not require them to disclose their practice. In Nevada, however, homeschoolers must affirm that they are providing language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies education. In addition, elementary and secondary students must have a set number of hours of instruction in these areas. Nevada also requires homeschoolers to submit an annual notification to state officials that they are homeschooling. There is no requirement to submit standardized testing, though the state does require that homeschoolers meet a minimum educational requirement.
It is popular among white families
While homeschooling is popular among white families, the trend is growing among non-White families as well. Between 2007 and 2014, the percentage of non-White families homeschooling in the USA increased by an impressive factor of 9.6. That increase was particularly dramatic among black, Hispanic, and Asian households.
This trend can be attributed to several factors. For example, black children are notorious for being punished more often in schools, often for legitimate bad behavior or racism. However, homeschooling allows parents to circumvent the problem altogether and ensure a quality education for their children.