Aaliyah Baker, University of Dayton – Homeschooling Movement Grows Among Black Families

On University of Dayton Week: There are many reasons why parents would decide to homeschool their kids.

Aaliyah Baker, faculty member in the department of educational administration, details a community that has found benefits in the practice.

Dr. Aaliyah Baker is a community-engaged scholar and faculty member in the Department of Educational Administration at the University of Dayton, School of Education and Health Sciences.  Her research engages critical and postmodern social theories and methodologies that focus on the experiences of Black homeschooling families and the role of race in educational achievement and experiences in schools and social settings.

Homeschooling Movement Grows Among Black Families

More Black families are choosing to homeschool. Frustrated by traditional schools, racism and limited resources, they report they seek a more meaningful education for their children. Many feel traditional classrooms don’t reflect their cultural backgrounds or values. By taking control of their children’s education, these families believe they can provide a better path to success.

Sandra’s story is a perfect example. She first enrolled her children in a high-achieving neighborhood school. But her son, despite his potential, struggled with low grades. Her daughter faced constant social issues. Sandra quickly realized, given the demographics of her community, her family was considered an ethnic and cultural minority. This created significant challenges.

Her decision to homeschool wasn’t just about escaping the negatives. Sandra and other Black parents I interviewed are creating curriculums that prioritize academic rigor and cultural connections. They also emphasize core values like human dignity and kindness. Their goal is to infuse their children’s education with cultural and religious values. Many Black parents find this approach boosts their children’s confidence and academic success. It empowers them, rather than diminishing their history.

Homeschooling, for them, is more than just education. It’s a form of resistance against the biases they feel their children face in traditional schools. It’s about creating a space where they feel their children can thrive academically, emotionally and culturally.

Sandra’s commitment reflects a growing movement among Black families. They want their children to be well-prepared for college and careers. They believe homeschooling gives them the power to raise confident, college-ready kids. They are working to create brighter futures for their children, one lesson plan at a time.