Sponsor Statement for SB 134

Sponsor Statement for CSSB 134 (HES)

Home Schooling Education Program

Senate Bill 134 adds a paragraph to the compulsory attendance policy (AS 14.30.010(b)), providing an exemption for children schooled at home by a parent or guardian.

Currently there are no specific provisions in Alaska Statutes pertaining to home schooled students. There are several ways current home schoolers comply with the law. Home schoolers in technical compliance are now required to follow provisions for Private and Exempt Schools (AS 14.45.100-130), or they may participate in a government-sponsored course (AS 14.30.010 (b)(11)). Neither provision was designed with home schoolers in mind. Senate Bill 134 codifies current practice by many home schoolers.

Families in which children are home schooled are numerous. Their number is growing in our state. It is time we acknowledge them by law. SB 134 recognizes the important contribution home schooling parents and students make to our state.

Sponsor Statement for SB 134

Home Schooling Education Program

Senate Bill 134 adds a paragraph to the compulsory attendance policy (AS 14.30.010(b)), providing an exemption for children schooled at home by a parent or guardian. This bill requires students be instructed in: reading, spelling, mathematics, science, history, civics, literature, writing, and English grammar.