Why Last Week’s Alaska Supreme Court Ruling isn’t the Final Word on Homeschool Allotments

The Alaska Supreme Court reversed a lower court ruling that deemed two homeschool laws unconstitutional, marking a victory for the state. Governor Mike Dunleavy supported the decision, emphasizing the importance of maintaining these laws. However, the court did not address whether Alaska correspondence schools can use public funds for private school expenses, a key issue raised by the plaintiffs. The ruling focused on procedural aspects rather than the broader constitutional question. The court upheld the homeschool laws, arguing that challenges should have involved school districts, which oversee fund allocations. The case now potentially returns to lower courts to resolve these constitutional questions with school districts involved.