Homeschooling in Ohio Hits Record, Exceeding Pandemic Spike
Homeschooling is on the rise in Ohio, reaching levels higher than during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, 53,051 students were homeschooled in the 2023-24 school year, a jump from 47,468 the previous year, and surpassing the 51,502 recorded during the pandemic’s peak in 2020-21.
Experts say the trend reflects both continuity and change. The number of homeschooled students was already climbing before COVID-19, but the pandemic gave many families a new perspective on education.
Some parents discovered they could tailor learning to their child’s needs, provide one-on-one support, or foster family closeness. Others cited concerns over safety, bullying, or exposure to negative influences in schools.
Not every family that tried homeschooling during the pandemic stayed with it; some found the commitment overwhelming. But for others, it became a long-term choice, supported by flexible curricula and the ability to shape education around each child’s interests.
What remains clear is that homeschooling is no longer a marginal option, but a steadily growing educational path. As one parent put it, the ability to adapt learning to each child has strengthened both education and family relationships.
At the heart of this shift is a guiding principle: every child has the right to an education that develops their personality, talents, and abilities to the fullest.
