Brunelle v. Lynn Public Schools

This case presents the issue of whether the City of Lynn School Department may constitutionally condition approval of a home school plan on periodic home visits. The purpose of these twice yearly, announced visits is to observe the instructional process and ensure that the home schooling plan is being implemented.

The plaintiffs, the parents of children who are of compulsory school age, desire to teach their children at home. They describe themselves as holding “Evangelical Christian beliefs" and, based upon these religious beliefs, assert that they must “provide, direct, and oversee the…