What AB 584 Proposes
AB 584 aims to revise Nevada’s education laws to expand school choice, particularly for students in underperforming public schools. It would allow families to transfer their children to higher-performing schools, including charter or private options, with provisions to ease access through funding or logistical support. While the bill doesn’t directly address homeschooling, its focus on parental choice which has implications for homeschooling families. Introduced on May 15, 2025, it’s currently in the Committee on Ways and Means with a notice of exemption, keeping it alive past the April 25 deadline.
Who’s Behind the Bill
AB 584 is backed by legislators advocating for educational reform, with support from Governor Joe Lombardo, who has prioritized school choice in his 2025 agenda. The bill has also gained traction among parent advocacy groups and organizations like the Nevada Policy Research Institute, which see it as a step toward empowering families. Notably, 9-year-old homeschooler Juliette Leong testified in its favor, sharing how her tailored education allows her to excel in math at a high school level while spelling at a third-grade level. Her story, which went viral on X, highlights the bill’s appeal to families seeking flexibility.
What People Are Saying
Public sentiment, especially on X, is largely positive, with parents and choice advocates praising AB 584 for giving families options to escape failing schools. Juliette’s testimony resonated widely, with posts calling her an “inspiration” for showing how choice benefits diverse learners. However, some educators and public school advocates express concerns about potential funding cuts to traditional schools, arguing that diverting resources could strain the system. These debates haven’t directly targeted homeschooling but underscore the broader tension around educational funding.
Homeschooling Impact Analysis
For homeschoolers, AB 584 is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it strengthens the narrative that parents should have ultimate authority over their children’s education—a principle at the heart of homeschooling. By normalizing alternative pathways, it could encourage more families to consider homeschooling, especially if public schools continue to struggle. Juliette’s testimony is a powerful reminder of how homeschooling allows individualized learning, which AB 584 indirectly champions.
On the other hand, we need to be careful. School choice initiatives sometimes lead to increased regulation for non-public options, including homeschooling, as lawmakers seek to tie in accountability provisions. While AB 584 doesn’t currently propose oversight for homeschoolers, its funding mechanisms (if tied to state dollars) could invite future scrutiny. Nevada Homeschool Network supports choice but opposes any measures that might compromise our freedom under NRS 388D.020, which requires only a simple Notice of Intent.
Get Involved
With the session winding down, your voice matters! Track AB 584 at www.leg.state.nv.us, contact your legislators to emphasize the importance of parental choice without strings, and consider testifying at hearings (in-person or via videoconference). Join the Nevada Homeschool Network and HSLDA for updates and action alerts. Together, we can ensure AB 584 supports freedom for all families, including homeschoolers.