West Virginia Families Weigh Homeschooling as Public Enrollment Falls
Local Homeschool News: West Virginia
More West Virginia families are looking beyond the traditional classroom, according to organizers of the third annual West Virginia Homeschool Convention (WCHS).
The West Virginia Home Educators Association estimates that more than 25,000 students are now being homeschooled in the state, compared with about 10,000 when many current homeschool families first started. Parents at the convention said they wanted resources and a learning option that fits their families. Homeschool parent Philip Rice said children are naturally curious and need the chance to learn at their own pace. WVHEA President Roy Ramey said some families are not satisfied with what they can get in regular schools.
The option is also becoming more affordable for some families. WCHS reported that more than 26,000 students applied for full Hope Scholarship funding for the 2026-27 school year after the program expanded to all school-age West Virginia children. The award is worth $5,435.62 per student for qualifying education expenses.
The shift comes as public school enrollment falls. State data cited by WCHS show West Virginia public schools lost more than 6,000 students in one year, with 234,957 students enrolled in 2025-26. Ramey said funding should right-size with enrollment. Organizers also said families can find help through co-ops, other parents, and resources like the convention.
For more on homeschooling in the state, see our West Virginia Homeschool Laws page and our West Virginia School Choice Options page.
Sources:
- Bethany Jarrell, “Families weigh homeschooling as public school enrollment falls,” WCHS, August 29, 2026 (updated August 30, 2026)