“the child is not the mere creature of the state”...
I am pretty sure that the home schoolers have take that one to court and lost. The state can, in fact, mandate the curriculum you must teach. At least in my state, you must be approved for home schooling.
take=taken (how terribly embarrassing)
Sorry, you are wrong. The state cannot dictate the curriculum. They’d LIKE to, but there is no court case upholding that.
In Pa you simply inform the SD you are homeschooling. No approval necessary. If you have a special needs child you have to have a teacher, doctor or psychiatrist sign the affidavit, but that’s the only circumstance.
You also submit a list of objectives to the SD. I’ve included my list here, which I used every year from 6th thru 12th grade. Enjoy. As you can see, it’s very non-specific.
Subject - Educational Objectives
English
Read classical and current literature.
Write compositions of interest.
Study proper spelling, grammar and vocabulary.
Arithmetic
Learn various concepts in mathematics and their application.
Science
Study concepts in science, engineering, and technology, including the scientific method of analysis and the application of skeptical thinking to evaluate claims of fact.
Geography
Develop further understanding of the physical and spatial relationships between land, sea, and air, and the distribution of plant and animal life on earth including man and industry.
History of the US and Pennsylvania
Describe the relationship between historical events and current events for cultural perspective.
Social Studies/Civics
Study the rights and responsibilities of citizens. Study other cultures and their history and the impact on the United States.
Safety Education
Instruct the student regarding issues of safety, including continuous instruction in the dangers and prevention of fires.
Health and Physiology
Emphasize good practice in exercise, nutrition, and hygiene.
Physical Education
Provide opportunities for, and encouragement of, frequent exercise.
Music
Provide opportunities for musical expression, and to expose the student to a diverse range of musical instruments and styles.
Art
Provide opportunities for creative expression through art projects, and expose the student to artistic works.
Your state requires approval for home schooling, but what about a parent or group of parents hiring a certified tutor to teach the kids in your home?