Special Bulletin: PJI Files Court Documents in Home School Case

Washington, D.C. – Late Friday, Pacific Justice Institute filed numerous court documents in response to the Rachel L. homeschool decision. PJI formally asked the Second District Court of Appeal to allow Sunland Christian Schools to intervene in the case. The family at the center of the case homeschools through Sunland’s independent study program. In its ruling, the court blasted Sunland as a “ruse” while disregarding its two decades of success and supportive letters from state and county educational authorities.

PJI also formally joined the Petition for Rehearing, filed on Friday by attorney Gary Kreep, who represents father Philip L. The Petition allows the Court to reconsider its decision before an appeal is taken to the California Supreme Court.

In PJI’s update last week, we stated, “Parents should continue to homeschool their children in their current program.” The California Department of Education has since echoed our position. “I have reviewed this case, and I want to assure parents that chose to home school that California Department of Education policy will not change in any way as a result of this ruling. Parents still have the right to home school in our state,” stated California’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, Jack O’Connell. https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr08/yr08rel28.asp

Preserving the opportunity to instruct children at home will take a team effort. PJI applauds groups such as Christian Home Educators Association of California and Home School Legal Defense Association for their work. As this case continues, PJI will apprise you of other organizations and resources that may be of assistance to you. Meanwhile, families should not be complacent. It is important to reiterate that parents keep appropriate records, including attendance and student work, as this case progresses through the court system.

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