HOMESCHOOL DAY AT THE CAPITOL SURPASSES EXPECTATIONS
Hundreds Gathered to Build Relationships with Legislators
Des Moines, Iowa March 17, 2009
The Network of Iowa Christian Home Educators (NICHE) hosted its annual “Home School Day at the Capitol” in Des Moines on March 17, 2009, and the turnout exceeded the expectations of event organizers. Homeschooling families from across Iowa came and participated in this annual effort to promote a positive image of homeschooling to Iowa lawmakers. Over 850 homeschool parents and children representing at least 60% of Iowa Senate districts and 40% of Iowa House districts rallied at the state Capitol to receive tips on political involvement, meet with their legislators, and share information with lawmakers on issues of importance to homeschool families.
Event activities began at 9:00 a.m. in the East Wing of the Capitol Rotunda. Display tables showcased homeschooling in Iowa and provided information to curious legislators and members of the public. Home educated musicians performed selections throughout the day and many families enjoyed tours of the Capitol conducted by the state’s professional tour guides. Scott Woodruff, an attorney with the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA), spoke to several hundred people at a noon rally on the West steps of the Capitol on “Protecting Parental Rights.”
Afternoon activities resumed at 1:00 p.m. in the Wallace Building with individual legislators briefly addressing the participants. Representatives from the Nebraska Christian Home Educators Association shared information on legislative matters averted last year that would have greatly altered homeschooling in Nebraska. Finally, Woodruff concluded the afternoon with an audience participation “mock trial” depicting possible effects on parental rights if the U.S. ratifies the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Scott Woodruff Addresses Noon Rally
Checking Out the State Capitol Dome
Serving Families Homeschooling in Iowa - Since 1992 Network of Iowa Christian Home Educators - Box 158, Dexter, IA, 50070 - (515) 830-1614 - (800) 723-0438 in Iowa
