SACRAMENTO — State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell made the following statement Friday after the 2nd District Court of Appeal issued a 44-page ruling that declared, "California statutes permit home schooling as a species of private school education."

"I am pleased that the courts have clarified the right of California parents to home school their children. I have respected the right of parents to make educational decisions they feel are in the best interest of their children.

"As head of California's public school system, it would be my wish that all children attend public school, but I understand that a traditional public school environment may not be the right setting for each and every child. I would point out that within California's education system there are many options available, from independent study to charter schools to non-classroom-based programs.

"I recognize and understand the consternation that the earlier court ruling caused for many parents and associations involved in home schooling. It is my hope that today's ruling will allay many of those fears and resolve much of the confusion.

"I also appreciate the caution and concern taken by the court to protect children when their safety becomes an issue."

To access the full ruling, please go to: Opinion on Rehearing (Outside Source; PDF; 108 KB; 44pp.)