Homeschool Graduate Elected to OH Board of Education

That'll shake things up

Homeschoolers have often shown their passion for education. Now, one homeschooler is taking that passion from the classroom to the capital of Ohio.

Sarah Fowler, a 24-year-old homeschool graduate from Rock Creek, in what is believed to be an historic first—perhaps in the nation—was elected to the Ohio State Board of Education. The state board reviews candidates for state superintendent, recommends policy reforms to the legislature, and sets administrative policy regulations. Every five years, the board reviews the state's homeschool laws—a review that is next scheduled to come up this summer.

Eleven board members are elected from districts, and eight at-large members appointed by the governor. When the redistricting process left Ohio's 7th District without a board member, Fowler, encouraged by friends, decided to run for the vacant seat. Fowler filed as a candidate just two days before the filing deadline and 92 days before the election. Few expected her to do well, let alone win.