When it comes to putting together an education plan, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Families know best, and those who choose homeschooling can provide children with all of the support, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed. I know this is true because my wife and I chose to homeschool our own kids for a time after I came to Congress. Family trips up to Washington led to some incredible learning experiences that we’ll never forget. Simply put, my family was free to make the right choice for our family at the right time.

And this week, I voted to advance the Homeschool Graduation Recognition Act—legislation that ensures homeschool graduates receive the same recognition as any other high school graduate when applying for federal student aid. The bill corrects confusion in federal law that has created barriers for homeschoolers aspiring for higher education. 

Federal aid eligibility, embedded in Section 484(d) of the Higher Education Act of 1965, identifies homeschool graduates as “not high school graduates.” This is misleading. The Graduation Recognition Act asserts clearly that homeschool graduates are—in fact—high school graduates. Homeschool graduates shouldn’t have to limit their goals; by cutting this tiny piece of red tape, we’ve expanded education grant opportunities for qualified young people. If you did the work, and met state law requirements, you shouldn’t be punished for how you got your diploma.

The bill now awaits a vote in the Senate before President Trump can sign it into law!