New Homeschool Law in Utah Passes Unanimously

Utah is no longer one of the three "approval" states. Massachusetts and Rhode Island are now the only states remaining which "approve" homeschools.

The discretionary approval authority of the school district over homeschoolers has finally been eliminated in Utah.

The shift in sentiment was dramatic. Senate Bill 59 passed both houses of the Utah legislature unanimously. And the governor signed it into law on March 18, 2005.

Praise God for this success for homeschool freedoms.

The bill provides that a school-age minor shall be excused from attendance upon the filing of an affidavit by the parent stating that the child will be homeschooled.

Furthermore, this bill makes it clear that a parent is in charge of the child's education. It states that:

• The parent is solely responsible for the selection of instructional materials and textbooks, though the required subjects must be taught.
• The parent is solely responsible for the time, place, and method of instruction, though a child must be taught "for the same length of time as minors are required to receive instruction in public schools."
• A school board may not require a parent to keep records of instruction or attendance.
• A school board may not require credentials for individuals homeschooling their children.
• A school board may not inspect homeschool facilities.
• A school board may not require standardized or other testing of homeschool students.

Utah now has one of the best homeschool laws in the country.

Congratulations Utah homeschoolers.

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