Watch this timely and insightful interview regarding a critical update on protecting homeschool freedom in Illinois. Pastor Calvin Lindstrom, Christian Liberty Homeschools (CLH), sits down with Will Estrada, Senior Counsel at the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA). They discuss urgent legislative developments that could drastically impact homeschooling families across Illinois.
Their conversation underscores the vital importance of staying informed and engaged as proposals surface that would shift Illinois from one of the most homeschool-friendly states to one of the most hostile—virtually overnight.
🔍 Key Highlights from the Video:
- The proposed legislation was introduced by Rep. Terra Costa Howard in February 2024. It includes mandatory registration, educational requirements for all adults in a homeschool environment, and forced data sharing with the Illinois State Board of Education.
- Missing a filing deadline could result in criminal truancy charges—a Class 3 misdemeanor with jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
- This bill would be the only one in the nation to enforce criminal penalties for paperwork infractions in homeschooling.
- Estrada details HSLDA’s active role in Springfield, where they are watching the bill “like a hawk,” alongside bipartisan opposition.
- On March 19, over 8,000 citizens gathered at the Illinois State Capitol to peacefully protest the bill—one of the largest displays of homeschool support in recent history.
Pastor Calvin reminds us that parents are the God-given primary educators of their children. In addition, he emphasizes that flexibility and respect for each child’s unique learning needs are essential to true education.
This issue cuts across rural, urban, and suburban communities. At it’s core, it is not just about curriculum or school choice—it’s about freedom, family, and faith.
🛑 Why this matters now:
Despite this temporary pause, the bill missed the April 19 committee deadline, but it is still active in the rules committee. It therefore, can be revived at any time before the legislative session ends on May 31. We must stay vigilant, keep praying, and remain ready to act.
💬 As Will Estrada shares, “People are asking, ‘Why are we going after homeschoolers?’” This video helps answer that question and offers ways you can take action to protect your rights.
🙌 What You Can Do:
- Don’t miss the details—watch the full video to understand what’s at stake.
- To take action, make your voice heard—contact your local and state representatives.
- One simple but powerful step is to thank those who have opposed this legislation.
- Keep praying—our strength is not in ourselves, but in God
📝 “This bill is a prison pipeline for parents who simply want to love their children.” — Rep. LaShawn Ford
📺 Watch the full interview now and stand with thousands of Illinois families defending the freedom to homeschool.