Reporting, oversight don't guarantee quality education

I believe the Constitution is clear, I can educate my children in the manner I deem necessary.

Nowhere in the U.S. Constitution does it dictate the government can limit, prescribe type or has a responsibility to educate my children.

Probably more relevant is the Iowa Constitution: Common schools. The Board of Education shall provide for the education of all the youths of the state, through a system of common schools … and kept in each school … at least three months. Any district failing, for two consecutive years … deprived of their portion of the school fund.

It does not say that the board shall provide the only education method. It also clearly states that the state may withhold funding for a school.

As a home-school, I do not fall within your legislative authority overseeing “common schools” as stated within the Constitution.

As a home-school, I do not receive, nor have I ever sought, any funding. Yet I continue to assist in funding the “common school” through my participation in paying state taxes.

As a parent who participates in home schooling, I do so because I care enough to and have the ability to do so.

When the legislature removed the reporting and oversight requirements of the public education, I applauded this act as entrusting me to be a responsible citizen and parent.

Reporting and oversight do not make a quality education. If this was the case, every student in the common school system would have superior achievement and accomplishment.

James Knox

Cedar Rapids