2026 HSLDA State of the Nation: Protecting Education Independence
Last Updated: February 2, 2026
“If we were to decide it is someone else’s battle to fight, our freedoms will be whittled away, and we will have very little to hand our kids by way of education independence.”
—Kevin Boden
On January 29, the 2026 HSLDA State of the Nation Event was presented by Education Independence, a Classical Conversations Initiative, and Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA).
This annual live webinar brought together parents, lawyers, advocates, and thought leaders from thirty-three states to discuss the most recent threats against and victories for education independence. It showcased the resilience, conviction, and vigilance that have always marked those who promote and protect independence.
Highlights from the State of the Nation Event
During the call, we heard from
- Lauren Gideon, Director of Government Relations of Classical Conversations,
- Robert Bortins, CEO of Classical Conversations and author of Woke and Weaponized,
- Kevin Boden, Director of Legal & HSLDA International, and
- members of the HSLDA legal counsel.
They shared that dozens of states across the country are under threat from harmful philosophies and policies.
Does God Entrust Parents with Their Children?
The focus of the call was on the philosophy that animates many bad bills around the country.
Organizations like Education Independence and HSLDA hold fast to the right of parents to raise their own children independent of state influence and regulation. In contrast, organizations like the Coalition for Responsible Home Education (CHRE) have an operating philosophy that parents are guilty until proven innocent, going as far as referring to parental rights as an extremist view.
This distinction in philosophy marks the premise of two political worldviews. One says that “God trusts parents with their children, and so should we.” The other proposes that parents must prove to the state that they can be trusted with their children.
The philosophy of CHRE is summarized in their model policy, “Make Homeschool Safe Act,” which urges legislators to enact regulations and oversight for homeschooling. The sad reality is, parental distrust produces harmful policies—that is why parents must be vigilant.
The Part Your Family Can Play
Join the Education Independence Network
If you are concerned about homeschool freedoms in your state, we warmly invite you to join the Education Independence Network. The network offers members:
- Legislative updates—Stay informed on the latest legislative developments in your state.
- Monthly newsletters—Receive a comprehensive newsletter with timely information.
- Virtual Seminars—Leverage the power of community and conversation every month.
Become an HSLDA Member
If you live in a state that is susceptible to dangerous policies that could infringe upon your ability to educate independently from the state, we strongly encourage you to become an HSLDA member.
Trusted for over 40 years by over 100,000 members, HSLDA provides legal assistance to families when the government violates its jurisdiction. Do not wait until the government knocks on your door, become a member of HSLDA today and have the comfort of knowing they will have your back if anything should happen to your family.
Your Vigilance Will Protect Your Children
By staying rooted in your convictions, informed about state policies, and connected with likeminded organizations, you can promote and protect education independence for yourself and your children.
