Official Memorandum

State of Texas

Office of The Governor

More than 75,000 Texas families embrace home schooling. This method of education allows parents to develop and implement a learning program based on their children's individual needs and the family's beliefs and values. Home schooling provides students with one-on-one attention and strengthens family bonds by involving children and adults in the learning process.

A district court ruling in 1987, subsequently upheld by the Texas Supreme Court, confirmed the right of parents to home school their children, so long as they follow certain minimal guidelines. First, there must be "bona fide" instruction going on in the home. Second, home schooling parents must have a curriculum or formal plan of learning. Third, five basic subjects must be covered: reading, spelling, grammar, math and citizenship or civics. Many families supplement these topics with art, physical education, science or religion according to their own areas of interest and expertise.

Educating our children is one of our most important responsibilities. I encourage all Texans to recognize the dedication of parents who home school and the hard work of the children who receive this personalized instruction.

Therefore, I, George W. Bush, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim May 2-8, 1999,

HOME EDUCATION WEEK

in Texas, and urge the appropriate recognition whereof.

In official recognition whereof, I hereby affix my signature this 19th day of April 1999.

(Signature of George W. Bush, Governor of Texas)