Michael P. Farris, Esq.
Chairman &
General Counsel

Equal treatment for homeschool grads

Volume 62, Program 17 9/13/2005

Recent developments in military policy have helped to level the playing field for homeschooled students entering the military. Today on Home School Heartbeat, Chris Klicka explains how these changes came about.

Mike Smith:
Chris Klicka, Senior Counsel at HSLDA, has worked closely with the military to ensure fair treatment for homeschoolers. Chris, could you explain the recent developments that have leveled the playing field for homeschoolers who want to join the armed forces?

Chris Klicka:
Yes, we've had some tremendous developments over the years. Originally, homeschoolers were considered essentially second-class citizens when trying to get in the military, and many of them were refused because they didn't have the traditional accredited high school diploma. The military considered them dropouts and didn't want to bring them in because they figured they'd drop out of the military. Well, in the last six years, we've had a pilot project that's enabled homeschoolers to come in as high school graduates. And they've performed well and done well. Although we've had some bumps along the road, we finally got to the point now where the Department of Defense at the highest levels has issued a memorandum putting homeschoolers in a preferred enlistment status. This means, of course, that when they come to the recruiter's office they get special treatment and so far, with this new policy we haven't had any homeschoolers turned away because they're homeschoolers.

Mike:
Well, Chris, thank you for that clear explanation. And until next time, I'm Mike Smith.

Please note: Homeschool graduates entering the military may still encounter challenges on an individual basis. Home School Legal Defense Association is working on behalf of our members to resolve each such situation. HSLDA members who meet with any obstacles in the enlistment process should call 540-338-5600 for assistance.