The effort led by the defense secretary intends to assess and expand education resources amid rising homeschool rates.
The U.S. Department of Defense has launched a review of homeschooling support for military families, following a directive from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The goal is to assess existing resources and consider additional support such as access to facilities or instructional materials. Homeschooling rates are notably higher among military families—about 12 percent compared to six percent in the general population—largely due to frequent relocations and remote assignments.
Secretary Hegseth stated that strengthening educational support contributes to the morale and operational stability of military communities.
This review is part of a broader federal initiative, stemming from a January executive order by President Trump, that seeks to expand education options for military children, including private, faith-based, and charter schools. Although the Defense Department operates its own network of schools, it does not mandate enrollment nor take an official position on homeschooling.
Some educational resources are already available to homeschooled students through the Department of Defense Education Activity, but the review will determine if those offerings are adequate.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Hegseth as he seeks to ensure adequate support for military families who opt to homeschool their children.
- For wisdom for the defense secretary and Pentagon officials as they conduct reviews of resources and policies surrounding active-duty families.
Sources: Military Times, Department of Defense, The Hill
