April 2, 2014
by Corie Moore
We headed to
the Capitol for CHAP HELP Day equipped with legislature folders and educational
packets for another Home Education Lobby Program.
It was a
perfect day. The spring air was invigorating. We entered the rotunda,
immediately reminded that this is that hallowed place where everyone comes to
petition their state government up close and personal. It was a beautiful sight
of families arriving with home baked cookies, breads and pies, children in tow,
and pushing more precious little ones in strollers against the backdrop of
professionally dressed men and women in suits and high heels.
It was a busy
day. The Capitol was buzzing with people and activities from pharmaceutical
companies, to new campaign legislation, to trade schools, and all sorts of other
causes. There were various displays and events one after another at the two rotundas,
but not one of them was asking to not be
a burden to the government. Not one was offering independence from state
protection and provision.
It was a
dynamic day. An unintended consequence of being on location at the right time
is the opportunity to meet new friends who are current home school advocates,
as well as aspiring legislators who are not only future supporters but also homeschooling
parents themselves. Their stories began with many different educational choices,
but ultimately led up to a resolute decision that they are the best people to
teach their own.
It was a hope
filled day. We met the first homeschool graduate in the legislature, Rep. Jesse
Topper, only two months in office after a special election. He grew up active
in the community, 4-H, sports, church and is an Eagle Scout, and is refreshingly
familiar with taking the brunt of homeschool jokes like, "You must be the
valedictorian!" which he relates with humble pride.
It was a
charged day. It was charged with blessings! We had a sense that Providence has
graciously put all of our ducks in a row this legislative season - which is
worth expounding on in the near future - but having Dee Black from HSLDA speak
reminded us of ongoing series of attempts in the past to modify the statutes that
burden home educators in our State. To be honest, many of us were not aware!
Dewitt Black has a long history as Pennsylvania
It was also a motivating
day, to hear the passion and commitment Rep. Mark Gillen is investing in House
Bill 1013. In contrast, the easiest thing for most legislators to do is
maintain the status quo, unless there is overwhelming evidence that they can
take this bill to the finish line. After all, this is just one of the thousands
of bills and resolutions before the General Assembly with the largest full time
membership in the nation.
To end this
God-inspired day, we can be certain that this is the time to come together,
work hard, share the good news to everybody we know -- that we have a great
shot at gaining freedom to educate in a less restrictive environment, to be
liberated from discrimination despite compliance to a regimented set of
academic standards, and a better chance for our children to continue learning
at home even in the event that our local superintendent brings a claim against our
education program.
May God find
us faithful to fight to regain domains that He, in His wisdom and love,
allotted to us, as parents.
- - - - - - -
Reference to
specific legislators does not mean campaign endorsement. CHAP is a 501c3
organization.
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