The Education Exchange Ep. 394 - May 27, 2025 - Who Are the Homeschoolers?
May 27, 2025
Angela R. Watson, a senior research fellow at the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy, dives into the evolving world of homeschooling. She highlights the growth from 3% to 7% participation, revealing surprising demographics that challenge common stereotypes. Discussions include how state laws affect homeschooling rates, the significance of Education Savings Accounts, and parents’ unique definitions of success that often prioritize outcomes beyond traditional college pathways. Watson's insights paint a comprehensive picture of this dynamic educational landscape.
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Homeschooling Methods Vary
- About 70% of homeschoolers do it full time, but nearly 30% engage in hybrid or co-op homeschooling.
- Homeschooling methods have diversified especially since COVID.
Internet Empowers Homeschooling
- The internet is crucial for homeschooling by providing accessible, diverse educational materials.
- Lower parental education levels correlate with more diverse homeschooling populations using online resources.
Homeschooling Across Grades
- Homeschooling is not concentrated in any particular grade; families move in and out across all grade levels.
- Transitions to middle and high school see higher switching rates in and out of homeschooling.