PROCLAMATION

PENNSYLVANIA

HOME EDUCATION WEEK
May 2 – 8, 2004

 

WHEREAS,
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania recognizes that healthy families are the fundamental building blocks of a strong society and parental involvement in and commitment to their children's education are essential elements of a healthy family; and

WHEREAS,
the learning alternative generally referred to as “home education” requires parents to be actively involved in their children's education; and

WHEREAS,
Over 1.5 million children are in home education programs, with more than 24,000 of these being Pennsylvania residents; and

WHEREAS,
home education has a history of being the original means of schooling children and has produced leaders in Federal and State governments, business and industry and has produced role models in all walks of life; and

WHEREAS,
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania statutorily recognizes
the legality of home education as an educational option, and accords it equal standing with public and private education; and

WHEREAS,
the academic success of home education is well documented
on the elementary, secondary, and post-secondary levels; and

WHEREAS,
home education takes advantage of the many benefits of individualized, flexible instruction in a supportive environment; and

WHEREAS,
Families who educate their children make a significant contribution to the Commonwealth by financially providing for their children's education and molding responsible citizens who will lead the nation in the 21st century.

THEREFORE,
In recognition of the dedication, hard work and accomplishments of the students and families involved with home education,
I, Edward G. Rendell, do hereby proclaim the week of May 2 – 8, 2004,
PENNSYLVANIA HOME EDUCATION WEEK.