More Information About Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)

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Legal Mumbo Jumbo

Checklist for Effective State Homeschool Associations

Member Directed: A state association that intends to represent the true interests of homeschoolers is one that regularly polls all members for opinions on issues. The leaders do not send down instructions for members to take any positions; they do what the members wish. Most importantly, the association does not take direction from any other organization.
No Religious Requirement: Numerous state homeschooling associations place religious requirements on board members. Obviously, this excludes a major portion of the homeschooling spectrum. Because some of these organizations are not up front about the religious requirements, ask--before you join--whether the group requires of its leaders or officers a particluar religious affiliation or statement of faith.
Board Elected by Members: Any state association that purports to represent its members must have a Board of Directors that is freely elected by the membership. There are no religious or political requirements for potential Board members.
Attempts to Include All Homeschoolers: No group can represent all homeschoolers, but an effective state association at least tries. An a-religious association is more inclusive than one that claims to be religious-oriented but welcoming to all.
Avoids Partisan and Religious Issues: A homeschooling association that wishes to represent a wide variety of homeschoolers must necessarily refrain from pushing any religious or partisan issues. Examples of such issues: Alternative Tax Identification legislation, Religious Freedom Acts, Gun Free School Zones legislation.
Works Only to Promote and Protect Homeschooling: no other issues, such as religious freedom, taxes, public school policies (except as they affect homeschoolers), and parental rights bills.
Legislative Updates: on homeschooling issues only. Updates offer information and encourage members to contact legislators, but do not tell members which opinion to take on any issues.
Not Associated With Political-Religious Advocacy Organizations: unfortunately, many state associations are linked to a closed circle. They take direction from a national advocacy organization, and exclude much of the spicy variety that comprises today's homeschoolers.
Respects Homeschooler's Autonomy: by working with local, state and national organizations as much as possible.

Posted June 15, 2007