Homeschooling

Overview

Homeschooling is a form of education that eschews traditional classrooms and school systems. Students are usually taught by their parents, though some homeschooling families form cooperative groups or hire instructors.

Homeschooling was once the norm in the United States until compulsory education laws, first established in the 17th century, began to spread across the country in the 19th century. The practice became more popular in the 1970s and '80s thanks to advocates who argued that formal schooling stifled students' ability and creativity.

School closures during the COVID-19 pandemic caused many parents to reevaluate their children's education, leading to an uptick in homeschooled students. Approximately 6% of American school-aged children were homeschooled during the 2023-2024 school year, about double the number before the COVID-19 pandemic.

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