Home School Heartbeat Radio Program

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Homeschooling Finds Allies
Volume 85, Program 11
10/6/2008

When homeschool freedom in California was threatened, homeschoolers found that they had allies all over the nation. On today’s Home School Heartbeat with HSLDA President Mike Smith and Mike Farris, find out about the friends of homeschooling in this summer’s California Court of Appeal case.

Mike Smith:
This week, we’re looking more in-depth at the recent homeschooling victory in the California Court of Appeal decision, In re Rachel L. Today, Mike Farris, who presented the oral argument for HSLDA, joins me to discuss the case. The number of amicus briefs filed in support of homeschooling was astounding. How significant was it that there were so many favorable amicus briefs filed?

Mike Farris:
Mike, the Court of Appeal invited amicus briefs from a number of organizations, all in the education establishment. It turned out that there were 16 total amicus briefs filed—14 on our side, and two against us. Now, of those that are on our side, some of the establishment briefs were on our side. The governor of California, the attorney general of California, the department of education—in two combined briefs—were on our side on the essential point of the statutory right to homeschool.

We had help, in various capacities, from Alliance Defense Fund, from Liberty Counsel, National Legal Foundation, American Center for Law and Justice, and a number of other groups.

What was important to see was a whole bunch of people standing together, shoulder to shoulder, for the right of all families in California to homeschool their kids. Focus on the Family was part of the brief that we wrote, for which we’re very appreciative. And we’re just thrilled to see the community stand together for the right of homeschooling.

Mike Smith:
Mike, thanks for joining us today. Until next time, I’m Mike Smith.

The Impending Storm

The first, unfavorable ruling in the Rachel L. case showed an alarming disregard for the fundamental right of parents to direct the education of their children. Find out how parental rights are coming under attack and what you can do to defend those rights! Click the link above for a free brochure from parentalrights.org.

Whether you want to stay abreast of homeschooling news and legislative issues, hear about the latest @home e-vent webinar, or get specialized help for teaching your high schooler—or struggling learner—or elementary student, HSLDA’s e-lert service has something valuable for you. Sign up here!