Homeschooling numbers rise along with COVID-19 cases

CORBIN, Ky. (WTVQ) – Homeschool enrollments were increasing in Kentucky before the pandemic hit, according to a Kentucky Office of Education Accountability report.  Education officials say the numbers are on the rise again as the coronavirus surges across Kentucky and mask mandates are implemented.

The superintendent of Corbin Independent Schools says he’s receiving a growing number of calls from parents who are concerned about children being back in the classroom given the spread of COVID-19, while others are upset over the new statewide mask mandate in schools.

“I have had numerous, numerous calls from parents that are taking their kids to home school or taking their kids north just because of the masking right now.  There’s a strong push back out there for this in my community,” said Corbin Independent Superintendent David Cox.

The Facebook page for ‘Kentucky Homeschooling’ surpassed 11,000 members this week following Gov. Andy Beshear’s Tuesday announcement of a statewide mask mandate in schools.