Since the 2017-18 school year, homeschooling has increased exponentially in almost every state. The school closures during the pandemic served as a catalyst to entice more families to explore educating their children at home permanently. While school districts in large cities saw parents choosing homeschooling due to concerning contentin the curriculum, rural school districts experienced their own homeschool exodus. In Pulaski County, KY, a district with fewer than 7,800 students, there has been a 75 percent increase in homeschooling since 2017. The reasons for the decision vary, but the overarching message is that parents are reclaiming their roles in their children’s education.
How Was Great Oaks Born?
In Campbellsville- a little town in Kentucky with a population of just over 11,000 people- about 90 miles south of Louisville, the idea of homeschooling fell on fertile soil, grew strong roots, and is developing into a mighty oak tree. In fact, this homeschool co-op was born out of the concern two mothers had about their own children’s education. They aptly named the co-op “Acorns To Great Oaks,” which has grown to serve 50 families and 115 children across Green, Taylor, and Adair counties.