Classical Conversations CEO Says More Families Turning to Homeschooling Amid Education Concerns

Education leader discusses homeschooling growth, parental involvement and alternatives to traditional schooling.

LANSING, Mich. — As debates over curriculum, parental rights and student achievement continue across the country, the head of one of the nation’s largest homeschool organizations says more families are choosing to educate their children at home.

In an interview with independent journalist Dave Bondy, Robert Bortins, CEO of Classical Conversations, said his organization has seen growing interest from parents seeking alternatives to traditional public schools.

Classical Conversations is a Christian homeschool program serving students from kindergarten through high school. Bortins said the organization operates approximately 2,000 communities across the United States and another 800 internationally, helping about 50,000 families homeschool each year. More than 1 million students have participated in the program since its founding nearly 30 years ago.

“The children learn how to think and not what to think,” Bortins said, describing the organization’s classical education model rooted in a biblical worldview.

Bortins attributed much of the recent growth in homeschooling to concerns about public education and parental involvement. He said many families became more aware of curriculum issues during the COVID-19 pandemic and have since sought greater control over their children’s education.

He argued that homeschooling is less intimidating than many parents believe, noting that modern homeschool curricula are typically designed with parents in mind.

“The academics just take a couple hours a day typically,” Bortins said. “You are more of a guide and a coach.”

For families considering homeschooling, Bortins recommended researching state requirements and connecting with local homeschool communities. He pointed to organizations such as the Homeschool Legal Defense Association and encouraged parents to seek support from experienced homeschool families.

Bortins also highlighted research he said shows homeschool graduates tend to be active in their communities, maintain high employment rates and pursue leadership roles as adults.

The interview touched on education funding policies in states that provide school choice programs or education savings accounts. While some advocates support allowing public education dollars to follow students into private or homeschool settings, Bortins expressed concerns that government funding can lead to increased regulation and oversight.

Instead, he encouraged families and communities to support educational alternatives through private scholarships, churches and independent networks.

Classical Conversations recently announced plans to expand beyond K-12 education by launching collegiate programs in the coming years. Bortins said the organization remains focused on helping parents take a more active role in their children’s education while building supportive learning communities.

Families interested in learning more about homeschooling or Classical Conversations can find local resources and representatives through the organization’s website.