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Homeschool Freedom Under Attack

Homeschooling freedom is a fundamental right that reflects our commitment to parental choice and freedom. Recent developments in Virginia highlight a growing threat to these rights—and serve as a stark reminder to Colorado homeschoolers that vigilance is essential. What happens in other states often sets a precedent, making it vital for us to stay informed and take action locally to protect our freedoms.


Homeschool Freedom

What’s Happening to Homeschool Freedom in Virginia?

The 2025 Virginia General Assembly session began with a direct assault on parental and religious rights. Senator Stella Pekarsky (D-36) introduced SB1031, a bill that undermines the religious exemptions that have protected Virginia homeschoolers for decades.


This legislation would:

  • Transfer authority from elected school boards to unelected superintendents and staff, giving government officials the power to judge families’ religious beliefs.

  • Weaken the religious exemption statute that safeguards families who object to government-run education based on deeply held convictions.

  • Set a dangerous precedent for government overreach into homeschooling freedoms.


While this is happening in Virginia, the implications are far-reaching. Homeschooling freedoms are being questioned nationwide, and now is the time for Colorado families to be vigilant.


Why This Matters to Colorado Homeschoolers

Colorado homeschoolers enjoy significant freedoms under current state law, but these freedoms are not guaranteed. Legislative threats to education rights in other states can inspire similar efforts here. If we’re not vigilant, the rights we take for granted could be eroded.


Protecting homeschooling in Colorado means staying engaged, informed, and ready to act.


How Colorado Homeschoolers Can Get Involved

Defending homeschool freedoms starts with proactive engagement in your own state. Here are steps every Colorado homeschooler should take to protect our rights:


Build Relationships with Legislators.

Take the time to know your state representatives and senators. Introduce yourself as a homeschool parent, explain why educational freedom matters, and establish an open line of communication.


Stay Informed.

Watch closely for legislation being introduced in Colorado. Bills can come quickly and often without widespread notice. Sign up for HSLDA’s legislative alerts and emails to stay up-to-date on potential threats to homeschooling and parental rights.


Engage Immediately When Legislation Is Introduced

Don't sit on the sidelines if a bill threatens parental or homeschooling rights.


Get involved by:


  • Raising awareness. Share information with friends, family, and others in your community who care about homeschooling freedoms. Ask them to spread the word, too.

  • Learn about how a bill becomes a law. Most people don't know how this process works. Download this guide so you can review it and reference it as needed.

  • Contacting legislators. Call or email your state representatives to explain your position. Be polite but firm, and reference the specific bill. Don't know who your state legislators are? You can find them here.

  • Go to the Capitol. Visit legislators in person to discuss your concerns, attend town hall meetings to hear their priorities, and participate in committee hearings to testify for or against bills.

  • Following the legislative process. Stay engaged at every step, from the bill’s introduction to its final vote. Legislators and their aides need to hear your voice consistently.

  • Advocate as a Community. Freedom is stronger when we work together. Encourage your local homeschool group to monitor legislation and support advocacy efforts. Collaborate to ensure every Colorado homeschooling family knows how to get involved.

  • Get along with other homeschoolers you don't agree with. The homeschool world is VERY diverse. Don't assume every parent you talk to or meet shares your beliefs. Respect each other's different beliefs and remember all parents care about their kids and their right to homeschool. Save the religious and political discussions for your inner circle. A divided community is a defeated community.

  • Pray or Send Intentions.If you’re a person of faith, pray for wisdom and protection for homeschool families. If not, send your best thoughts and intentions for positive outcomes.


Freedom Requires Vigilance

The fight for homeschooling freedom is ongoing, and Colorado families cannot afford to assume that these threats will stay confined to other states. By staying informed, building relationships with our legislators, and engaging in the political process, we can safeguard the rights that allow us to homeschool in the ways that work best for our children.

Homeschooling is more than a choice—it’s a responsibility to protect our freedoms for future generations. Let’s take action now, Colorado, before these freedoms are threatened here at home.


Sign up for HSLDA’s legislative alerts today to stay informed about potential legislation in Colorado and across the nation. Together, we can stand firm and protect our rights.


For more details, read the alert from the Home Educators Association of Virginia and consider lending your voice to support Virginia homeschoolers by contacting the legislators listed. Politely share your respectful thoughts and concerns about why Senator Pekarsky’s bill, SB1031, is a dangerous attack on educational rights, children's rights, and freedom. Together, we can stand in solidarity to protect homeschooling everywhere.


Protect homeschooling freedom by building strong connections with your legislators. Get our guide, Comprehensive Guide for Building Relationships with Your Legislators, to learn practical steps to influence change and safeguard your rights. Start making a difference today!

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