By Kathy Kennedy
State Rep., R-119
Kathy Kennedy
When the legislature considers policies affecting our children and families, it is important that we listen closely to the people most directly impacted. That is why the recent passage of HB-5468 out of the legislature’s Education Committee was so disappointing – especially for homeschooling families in communities like Milford and Orange.
Over the past several weeks, I have heard from hundreds of parents in our area who homeschool their children. These families reached out through emails, phone calls and testimony to share their concerns about this proposal. Their message was consistent: they believe HB-5468 represents unnecessary government intrusion into the lives of responsible parents who have chosen a different educational path for their children.
The response from homeschooling families across Connecticut was overwhelming. Parents took time out of their busy schedules to participate in the legislative process and make their voices heard. Hundreds shared thoughtful personal testimony, and more than 3,000 families submitted written testimony about how homeschooling works for their families and why they fear this bill could make it more difficult to continue providing the individualized education their children rely on.
Despite that strong outpouring of opposition, the Education Committee voted to advance the bill.
For families in Milford and Orange, homeschooling is often chosen because it allows parents to tailor education to their children’s specific needs. Some students thrive in a more personalized environment. Others benefit from flexible schedules that allow them to pursue interests in the arts, athletics or advanced academic studies. Parents in our communities devote significant time and effort to ensuring their children receive a well-rounded and high-quality education.
Connecticut has long maintained a cooperative relationship with homeschooling families, and many local districts – including those serving Milford and Orange – have worked constructively with parents who choose this option. That balance has allowed families the freedom to educate their children in a way that works best while maintaining appropriate communication with local schools.
HB 5468 risks upsetting that balance.
While supporters say the proposal is meant to strengthen oversight, many parents worry it could open the door to burdensome mandates that treat responsible families with suspicion rather than trust. At a time when families are seeking greater flexibility in education, proposals like this raise legitimate questions about whether the state is moving in the right direction.
One of the most encouraging aspects of this debate has been the level of civic engagement from homeschooling families. Parents from Milford, Orange and across Connecticut stepped forward to share their stories and advocate for their children. That kind of participation is exactly what our democratic process should look like.
The legislative process is not finished. If HB-5468 is called for debate in the House of Representatives, it will face further scrutiny and discussion. I will be watching closely and staying vigilant as the bill moves forward.
In the meantime, I want the homeschooling families of Milford and Orange to know that their concerns have been heard. I remain deeply wary about any legislation that could undermine parental rights or place unnecessary mandates on families that already do so much to educate their children.
Speaking as a mother of two, now grown adults: parents know their children best, and our policies should reflect that.