Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Article: Schools Chief Jack O'Connell Issues Statement Regarding Home Schooling In California

SACRAMENTO - State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell
announced today that the California Department of Education has
completed a legal review of the February 28 California Court of Appeal
ruling regarding home schooling. O'Connell issued the following statement:

"I have reviewed this case, and I want to assure parents that chose to
home school that California Department of Education policy will not
change in any way as a result of this ruling. Parents still have the
right to home school in our state. "Every child in our state has a
legal right to get an education, and I want every child to get an
education that will prepare them for success in college and the world
of work in the challenging global economy.

"As the head of California's public school system, I hope that every
parent would want to send their children to public school. However,
traditional public schools may not be the best fit for every student.
Within the public school system there are a range of options available.

Students can take independent study classes, attend a charter school,
or participate in non-classroom- based programs. But some parents
choose to send their children to private schools or to home school,
and I respect that right.

"I admire the dedication of parents who commit to oversee their
children's education through home schooling. But, no matter what
educational program a student participates in, it is critical that the
program prepares them for future success in the global economy. I urge
any parent who is considering or involved in home schooling their
children to take advantage of resources and support available through
their county or district offices of education."

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