LANSING — Michigan State Senator Joseph Bellino has introduced a bill that would allow homeschooled students to join sports and other activities at their local public schools.
Bellino, a Republican from Monroe, said the measure is about fairness and opportunity. He noted that parents who homeschool still pay taxes that support public schools, and their children should be able to take part in extracurricular programs.
Currently, the Michigan High School Athletic Association requires homeschoolers to take at least two-thirds of a public school course load to be eligible for athletics. Senate Bill 589 would prevent districts from banning homeschoolers outright.
The proposal would also apply to activities like theater, band, orchestra, and debate teams. Students would still need to live within the district where the activity is offered.
The legislation is now before the Senate for consideration.