House Republican Press Release

August 31, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Homeschooling Forum Series Begins

KILLINGLY- State Representative Arthur O’Neill (R-Southbury) was joined by State Representative Michael Caron (R-Killingly) and Kevin Johnston (D-Killingly) in hosting an informational forum on home-schooling yesterday at the Killingly Public Library.  The event drew nearly 60 interested homeschoolers in a standing-room only crowd.

The forum was aimed at being an informational exchange between legislators and those who live in their communities who are home-schooling their children, or are interested in teaching their children at home.  It is the first of several forums that will be held throughout the state.

“I would say that this first event was very successful,” said Representative O’Neill.  “I certainly had my eyes opened by a number of the participants who took the time out to join us.  Some home-schooling parents did not want to come to the forum for fear of being targeted by boards of education, and there appears to be some evidence to back up those anxieties.  Homeschoolers have a right to educate their children the way they see fit, and Connecticut needs to become more homeschooler friendly.”

O’Neill related that one home-schooling parent who was present noted that she chose to move Connecticut because the state’s homeschooling laws were less adverse than neighboring states.  “This really presents the economic development aspect of this argument which many don’t consider,” said O’Neill.  “If we urge creative and brilliant people to move to Connecticut because we embrace their ability to pursue the education of their children in a way they see fit, we will be bringing brighter minds to our state to live work and raise families.  That can only help our state.

“I am greatly encouraged by this exchange and dialogue yesterday,” he added.  “This will certainly help us as legislators as we go to the next session and attempt to craft homeschooling friendly legislation. I am looking forward to the next forum.”

A date and location for the next homeschooling forum has not been set yet.