Sen. Sampson Statement on Democrats’ Focus on DCF, Not Homeschooling

State Sen. Rob Sampson (R-Wolcott) today issued the following statement regarding Democrats’ focus on the Department of Children and Families and not homeschooling:

“It’s refreshing to see Connecticut Democrats finally addressing the actual problem. For months, they’ve been quick to use tragedies like this one to push for new restrictions on parents who choose to homeschool their children. But the facts in this heartbreaking case make it clear that homeschooling was not the issue — government failure was.

“I agree wholeheartedly with my Democratic colleagues where they say, ‘As we learn more, it is becoming apparent that the Department of Children and Families failed her; DCF has one of the most important roles in our state and when it accepts less than 110%, our most vulnerable children are left in harm’s way, with children like Jacqueline suffering the consequences. It’s clear that DCF did not meet the moment here, and we need answers as to how and why this happened, as well as assurances that we can make certain it never happens again.’

“They are absolutely right. The Department of Children and Families failed this child — not homeschooling, not parents exercising their rights. The state’s focus should be on accountability within DCF, not on punishing families who are doing their best to provide a safe and quality education for their children,” he said.