A university researcher explains why homeschooling numbers continue to grow
Dec 27, 2024
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Collin Hitt, a homeschooling dad and Executive Director at the PRIME Center, dives into the booming trend of homeschooling, especially in Missouri, where 1 in 16 kids are now taught at home. He discusses shifting perceptions post-pandemic, the flexibility families seek, and the challenges in gathering accurate data. Hitt also explores the evolving relationship between homeschooling and public education, including the need for schools to adapt. Finally, he hints at the future of education policies that support homeschooling, a likely permanent fixture for many families.
The significant increase in homeschooling numbers in Missouri, driven by post-pandemic changes and remote learning experiences, highlights emerging educational trends.
New educational modalities like micro schools and hybrid learning are redefining homeschooling, allowing families to alternate between homeschooling and traditional schooling.
Deep dives
Growth of Homeschooling in Missouri
Over 60,000 students in Missouri, representing about 6% of the school-age population, are currently homeschooled, which marks a significant increase compared to pre-pandemic levels. This number is higher than the combined student population of the two largest public school districts in the state. The rise in homeschooling reflects broader national trends, with data from Johns Hopkins University highlighting similar increases in several states. The study conducted by the Prime Center is notable for being the first of its kind, specifically aimed at uncovering the realities and trends of homeschooling in Missouri.
Reasons Behind the Shift to Homeschooling
Several factors are driving the increasing interest in homeschooling among Missouri families, particularly post-pandemic. One significant reason is that many families experienced remote learning during the pandemic and opted to continue homeschooling afterward. Additionally, shifts in work patterns, such as the rise of remote and hybrid work, have made homeschooling more feasible for a wider range of families. As homeschooling becomes more normalized within communities, more families are finding it to be an attractive educational option, contributing to its growth.
Changing Definitions and Future Research Directions
The concept of homeschooling has evolved, with new modalities like micro schools and hybrid learning environments blurring the lines between traditional homeschooling and schooling. Current trends indicate that many children are not solely homeschooled for the entire K-12 experience but may transition between homeschooling and brick-and-mortar schools. Future research will explore these changes and the implications for educational practices, especially in relation to public schools adapting to the increasing number of homeschool families. As data collection methods improve, a clearer picture of the homeschooling landscape is expected to emerge.
Collin Hitt, Ph.D., is the executive director of the Policy Research in Missouri Education (PRIME) Center at Saint Louis University in Missouri. He is also a homeschooling dad and the co-author of a new report on homeschooling's growth that was recently published in the Journal of School Choice.
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