What Drives Homeschool Participation: A Multisource and Multistate Examination

• In Event: Curriculum, Contexts, and Considerations: Homeschool Research Breaking New Ground

Abstract

Before the pandemic, homeschoolers made up 2-3% of the K-12 student population. By 2022-23, this figure rose to around 6%, with more than 90% of states reporting increases in homeschool participation (US Census Household Pulse survey, 2023). In comparison, charter schools account for about 7% and private schools for 9-10%. Notably, research by Cheng (2024) shows that 50% of students who were homeschooled did so for only 1-3 years and often switched between public schools rather than private ones. Additionally, many families have a mix of homeschooled and traditionally schooled children (Watson & Lee, 2025). Given the sizable and growing homeschool population, understanding the factors that drive participation is critical.
Despite the importance of this topic, research on the dynamics of homeschooling remains sparse. This study combines data from the US Census Pulse survey, state-level homeschool policies, and state-specific metrics (such as religiosity, PEW data) to explore the drivers of differential homeschool participation across states and regions.

This study examines whether state homeschool policies—whether permissive or restrictive—and other state-level factors influence participation rates in homeschooling across the U.S.

The study uses data from Phase 3 of the US Census Household Pulse Survey, along with state-level homeschool policy data. Key policy factors include requirements like filing a notice of intent, minimum parent-educator qualifications, curricular mandates, and testing obligations. Political leanings (e.g., state legislature, governor's party, and presidential voting history) are also considered. Ordinary least squares regressions are used to analyze these factors and assess their impact on homeschool participation rates.

Preliminary analysis based on state-reported homeschool participation was insufficient due to a lack of comprehensive data from 30 states. However, incorporating Pulse survey estimates enabled the analysis of all 50 states. Initial findings indicate that red and blue states show significant differences in their homeschool policies, as expected. Interestingly, past presidential election results did not show statistically significant correlations with homeschool participation. This suggests that state-specific political factors, such as the political party of the governor or legislature, may be more closely linked to homeschool policies and participation trends than national elections.

Understanding the evolving homeschool population is crucial for policymakers and educators. This study contributes to the limited research on homeschooling by highlighting the role of state policies and political factors in driving participation rates. The findings offer insights that can help inform future education policies and assist traditional school systems in understanding the factors contributing to increasing homeschool enrollment.

Authors

• Angela R. Watson, Johns Hopkins University

• Alanna V. Bjorklund-Young, Johns Hopkins University

• Genevieve Smith, Johns Hopkins University