PARTICIPATION IN EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES BY HOME-SCHOOLED STUDENTS


I. Issue:

School districts are increasingly being confronted with a request to allow a home-schooled student to participate in extra-curricular activities.  What factors need to be considered in making this decision?


II. Factors:

A. Federal/State Law

1. May allow participation by non-enrolled student
2. No constitutional right to participate
3. Non-discriminatory treatment
4. Equitable basis

B. IHSA Requirements

1. Student must be “enrolled”
2. At least 20 credit hours, which will be credited towards graduation
3. Monitor work
4. All requirements except attendance

C.IESA Requirements

1. Similar to IHSA

D. Insurance Coverage

1. Review policy
2. Exclusions from coverage
3. Definition of enrolled student

E. Private School Requests

1. May make same request if let home-schooled children participate

F. Impact on school spirit/loyalty
G. Allocation of Public Resources

1. Possible criticism for allowing public tax dollars to be spent for non-attending children

H. Role Model

1. Many feel regular attendance student athletes promote role models for student body

I. Lesser opportunities for attending students

1. Cut policy?

J. Ability to effectively discipline non-attending students