OpEd: Rep. Nuccio Says Homeschoolers Deserve 'A Voice in Government'

TOLLAND, CT — The following is an OpEd piece submitted by StAte Re. Tamm y Nuccio.

Here is the essay in full:

Recently, I had the privilege of organizing a forum in Tolland where I, and my Republican colleagues, listened directly to homeschool parents and, most importantly, homeschool students. The event was a resounding success, giving families a platform to share their stories and experiences - something they all too often do not get in Hartford.

What we heard was powerful. Students told us they learn better at home, free from the distractions and disruptions they faced in traditional classrooms. Some spoke about how homeschooling allowed them to escape bullying, while others explained that the freedom of their education lets them pursue subjects that spark their passions - whether it be science, the arts, or the trades. These are real success stories, and they prove that homeschooling is not a system in need of “fixing.” but one that works for thousands of Connecticut families.

That’s why it was so disheartening to see Sen. Ceci Maher attempt to minimize this important gathering by stating it was a "shame this forum was not held in the Legislative Office Building in Hartford."

With all due respect, that comment reflects the very problem we are fighting against: too many in Hartford think every conversation must happen within the walls of the Capitol, on government’s terms, rather than out in our communities where families actually live and learn.

I, and several of my colleagues, represent rural districts, which makes it important to host these types of events so that families don't have to drive to Hartford to have a dialogue with their lawmakers, as was suggested by the comment above.

The voices of these families matter no less because they were heard in Tolland. In fact, holding the forum in the community created the very environment that encouraged open and honest dialogue - something parents and students alike said they rarely feel when it comes to government discussions about their lives.

Also, conflating the tragedy of abuse in Waterbury with the thriving homeschool community is not only unfair, it’s dangerous. Abuse is a crime, and it should be prosecuted as such. It should not be used as an excuse to pile unnecessary regulations onto loving parents who dedicate themselves to their children’s education every single day.

Homeschooling is not a one-size-fits-all issue, just like public or private school isn’t the right fit for every child. It’s not an “either/or” choice, it’s about giving families the freedom to decide what works best for their children. For many parents, that answer is homeschooling, and they have every right to make that decision.

The message from this forum was clear: homeschooling works, and it deserves respect, not suspicion. I am grateful to every parent and student who bravely shared their stories, and I remain committed to ensuring their voices are heard in Hartford.