Challenges in public schools driving more Texas parents to consider homeschooling

Ongoing safety concerns at her son’s elementary school in Texas have caused Sarah Jackson to switch to homeschool.

“My son is 5 years old and I am definitely going to homeschooling, not by choice,” she told KCEN, an NBC affiliate based in central Texas. “I want him to actually have a good education in elementary school and have that experience. Unfortunately, because of safety concerns, I don’t feel I have a choice. I feel like I do need a homeschool.”

Fortunately for parents, many homeschool resources stand ready to help them succeed.

“In Texas, the laws are fairly straightforward,” said Alison Wilson, founder of Homeschool House in Belton. “Subjects like language arts, mathematics and good citizenship are required, along with a visual curriculum format. Finding a local homeschool community can also provide essential support. There are co-ops and park days organized throughout the area, often found in Facebook groups.”

Wilson describes herself as an “accidental homeschooler” on her program’s website. Because of her husband’s military work, she chose to homeschool her son instead of moving him through two or three schools throughout the academic year. 

“When arriving in Temple, TX, they fell in love with the vibrant and eclectic homeschool community here and decided to continue homeschooling,” the website explains. “Her son is currently a student at Temple College.” 

‘Go deeper without being held back’ 

Families decide to homeschool for a variety of reasons – including curriculum, unique educational needs and freedom with family schedules, according to Wilson. 

“The main difference between public school and homeschooling is flexibility. If it’s a beautiful day, you can take your kids to the park and do schoolwork there. Plus, if your child excels in a particular subject like math, you can go deeper without being held back by a set classroom pace.” 

Wilson’s program offers a range of attendance choices, from single meeting classes to a full-time microschool option. 

Registration is open for the 2025-26 academic year. Prospective parents can schedule tours, conduct a family interview and take a test day in the program before enrolling. 

Additional homeschool resources in the Lone Star State include the Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) and Texas Home Educators. 

As previously reported by The Lion, an estimated 50,000 students statewide are leaving public schools each year to homeschool. 

“It’s easy for people to plug into a community where they live in most areas of the state,” said Jeremy Newman, THSC’s vice president of policy and engagement. “There’s a support network for people who want to start homeschooling.”