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Criticism is mounting against Education Minister Erica Stanford after proposed changes to New Zealand’s homeschooling laws were reportedly added to legislation after the select committee process had concluded.
Opponents claim the move prevented homeschooling families from having any opportunity to make submissions to parliament on the proposed reforms, which they argue would hand broad new powers to the secretary for education over homeschooling regulations. Critics say more than 11,000 homeschooled children across New Zealand could be affected by the changes.
The backlash alleges the amendments were inserted into the Education and Training (System Reform) Amendment Bill late in the legislative process, prompting accusations of a lack of transparency and democratic oversight.
Detractors argue the homeschooling system has operated successfully for decades and say the Ministry of Education has failed to demonstrate any evidence of widespread problems requiring reform.
Concerns have also been raised about the ministry’s engagement with the homeschooling community, with claims officials declined requests to meet with homeschooling representatives during the development of the changes. Critics say the proposed amendments amount to a significant shift in how homeschooling could be regulated in New Zealand.
The controversy has also reignited debate around previous proposals backed by Stanford, including plans for stricter globalist social media age verification measures. Opponents argue the latest homeschooling changes reflect a broader trend toward increased state interference in the lives of citizens and reduced personal freedoms.
This article was originally published by the Daily Telegraph New Zealand.
