In recent years, more parents than ever are choosing to homeschool their kids, and Florida is leading the trend. A new report from the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy’s Homeschool Research Lab reveals a significant rise in homeschooling across 19 out of 21 states studied during the 2023-2024 school year.
What’s fueling this movement? Let’s take a closer look at why families are leaving traditional classrooms behind and how Florida is making it easier than ever to homeschool.
Why Are Families Turning to Homeschooling?
The reasons vary, but they all reflect a desire for more control over their children’s education. Many parents cite dissatisfaction with public schools, including:
- COVID-19 Policies: The pandemic pushed many families to reconsider traditional schooling, with safety protocols, remote learning, and lockdowns creating frustration.
- Curriculum Concerns: Debates over teaching critical race theory, gender-neutral topics for younger students, and other curriculum choices have led some parents to seek alternatives.
- Discipline Issues: Some parents feel public schools lack the discipline necessary for a productive learning environment.
- Teacher Union Actions: Prolonged closures, mask mandates, and delayed classroom returns supported by teacher unions were also factors driving families to homeschool.