Special Bulletin: PJI Files Brief in Landmark Homeschool Case

California – Today, Pacific Justice Institute filed its opening brief with California’s Second District Court of Appeal in the Rachel L. homeschooling case that has attracted national interest.

After a surprise ruling in late February which essentially declared homeschooling unlawful in California, the Second District Court of Appeal decided late last month to re-hear the case. PJI represents the Christian school through which the L. family educates their children at home. In the brief filed today, PJI explained in detail to the court that current law in California is consistent with home education and independent study programs. PJI also invoked fundamental constitutional rights, which have long protected parents’ responsibilities to direct and control the upbringing of their children.

Brad Dacus, president of Pacific Justice Institute, commented, “Our legal team has put in many long hours to ensure that the voice of homeschooling families is heard clearly and persuasively in the Court of Appeal. It is absolutely essential that our judicial system continues to recognize parents’ age-old rights to determine how best to raise and educate their own children.”

The Court of Appeal has also requested amicus briefs from California’s Superintendent of Public Instruction and Department of Education, as well as teachers’ unions, due by May 19. The Court has specifically granted PJI the opportunity to respond to those amicus briefs. Oral argument is expected to take place in June.

Because of its far-reaching implications, this case is requiring a significant, ongoing investment of time and resources by the PJI legal department. If you are able to support PJI, please click here to contribute now or visit www.pacificjustice.org/give.