Why We Care
At Classical Conversations, we believe God trusts parents with their children, and so should we. Therefore, we advocate for the protection of parental rights and educational autonomy. Education belongs first and foremost to parents, not the state. That’s why we’ve launched the Education Independence Network, a movement committed to ensuring home education remains free, privately funded, and directed by families.
Why This Matters
- God trusts parents with their children.
- We should trust parents with their children.
- We should affirm and protect parental autonomy.
What is Happening
A new bill, New Jersey Senate Bill 4589 (NJ S4589), mandates annual “child wellness inspections” by public-school representatives in every homeschool household. This extraordinary requirement undermines parental autonomy by allowing routine state surveillance. This is a moment to stand together—not in fear, but in faith and resolve.
Homeschooling thrives on independent, parent-directed education. New Jersey’s S4589 shifts trust away from families and places it in government oversight. Mandated routine inspections signal distrust and threaten to discourage parents from choosing freedom and independence in education.
Last week, we came to you asking for your help defeating NJ S1796. The outcry from constituents was resounding! Because of your response, the bill was placed on hold following the June 5, 2025, Senate hearing. Help us preserve parental autonomy in New Jersey. Together, we can ensure that families, not the government, remain the stewards of their children’s education!
How to Respond
- Call and email your Education Committee Senators: Your voice speaks volumes. We’ve provided contact information below for your convenience.
- Share the Message: Help other families understand what’s at stake and why parental autonomy and education independence must be preserved.
- Contact Your Legislators: A quick call or a simple, respectful note from a constituent can make a big difference. You can find your legislators’ contact information here: Find Your NJ Legislator.
Sample Talking Points:
“Hello, my name is _______. I am calling regarding Senate Bill 4589. As a homeschool parent, I value freedom from government strings and homeschooling regulations. I would like to ask Senator _______ to please join a large constituency of homeschoolers in opposing the S4589 legislation. Thank you!”
Here are additional communication resources to assist you. To learn more about Education Independence, please visit the Choose Education Independence website, where you’ll find a Resources tab at the top of the page. To receive alert emails, legislative updates, and event information, join the Education Independence Network.
Committee Information:
Name: Vin Gopal, Chair
Phone: (732) 704-3808
Email: Contact Your Legislator
Name: Shirley K. Turner, Vice Chair
Phone: (609) 323-7239
Email: Contact Your Legislator
Name: Kristin M. Corrado
Phone: (973) 237-1360
Email: Contact Your Legislator
Name: Owen Henry
Phone: (732) 607-7580
Email: Contact Your Legislator
Name: Angela V. McKnight, Bill Sponsor
Phone: (201) 360-2502
Email: Contact Your Legislator
You can track the Senate Education Committees Schedule here.
