Legislation was introduced today that will clarify several federal laws and ensure equal treatment of homeschool students.
"More and more parents are making the choice to educate their children at home," said Rep. Marilyn Musgrave (R-CO). "They should be free to make that decision, knowing that the laws will treat their children as equals in qualifying for financial aid and protecting their academic records. This legislation has come at the request of many families across the country who seek the freedom to educate their children as they wish."
The Home School Non-Discrimination Act of 2003 (HONDA) brings federal law up-to-date with the rapid growth of homeschool students, who now number roughly two million. HONDA ensures that the rights of homeschool students are protected and gives flexibility to parents in educating their children at home.
"Rep. Musgrave has been a real leader in ensuring that federal law does not discriminate when it comes to homeschool students," said Chairman Boehner, one of 27 original cosponsors of the legislation. "I am pleased to play a role in ensuring that federal law is clear and fair regarding homeschool students."
The key provisions of the legislation are:
- Clarifies the Higher Education Act to ensure that homeschool students and the institutions that enroll them are eligible for federal financial aid.
- Ensures that homeschool students have access to Coverdell Education Savings Accounts.
- Allows all homeschool students to apply for the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program.
- Strengthens protection of homeschool student records under the Family Educational Records and Privacy Act.
- Amends child labor laws in recognition that older homeschool children may work during traditional school hours, as their school day does not necessarily follow the usual schedule.
- Clarifies that the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act does not require parents to complete burdensome paperwork or undergo an evaluation when they decline special education services.