TENNESSEE - National School Choice Week kicks off January 25, and Middle Tennessee families will see hundreds of events aimed at helping parents understand the full range of K–12 options available to them. More than 28,000 events are planned nationwide, and Tennessee will host over 650, with many taking place in Rutherford, Davidson, Wilson, and surrounding counties. These open houses, parent nights, and information sessions are designed to help families make confident decisions about where their children will learn next year.

One question that comes up often is whether homeschooling is part of National School Choice Week. The answer is yes—homeschooling is one of the core school choice pathways highlighted during the week. Organizers treat it as a full-fledged option alongside public, charter, magnet, private, online, and microschooling models. And in Tennessee, homeschooling is not only recognized but rapidly growing. Middle Tennessee in particular has seen a noticeable rise in families choosing home-based education, often blending traditional curriculum with co‑ops, tutoring centers, and hybrid programs that meet a few days a week.

The National School Choice Awareness Foundation, which coordinates the week, is partnering with 482 Tennessee schools and organizations to help families explore these options. Their message is simple: parents make better decisions when they understand the landscape. With roughly 1,000 hours of classroom time ahead each school year, families want to know which environment best fits their child’s needs, personality, and learning style.

As for why so many people are opting for “choice,” parents cite a mix of reasons. Some want smaller learning environments or more individualized instruction. Others are looking for specialized programs, faith‑based education, or more flexibility in scheduling. Many homeschooling families say they appreciate the ability to tailor lessons, protect family time, or address unique learning needs without the constraints of a traditional school day. And across Middle Tennessee, transportation challenges, long commutes, and crowded school zones also play a role in pushing families to explore alternatives.

• Students and Parents Can Learn More About the Tennessee Education Freedom Scholarship Program HERE. 
• Learn More about Murfreesboro City Schools HERE.