She just wanted to do what was best for her child and nearly went to jail for it.

In this unforgettable conversation, Christy-Faith sits down with Zan Tyler, one of the earliest and most courageous voices in the homeschool movement. Back in 1984, Zan’s decision to homeschool wasn’t just unconventional. It was illegal. She faced rejection, loneliness, social exile, and even threats of jail time, all because she chose what she believed was right for her son.

But that’s not where the story ends.

Zan’s quiet yes turned into a movement. Her courage paved the way for the homeschool freedoms that so many families now enjoy. If you’ve ever wondered what it took to make homeschooling legal, or how to stay strong when your decisions feel misunderstood, this episode will both encourage and challenge you.

The battles we face today may look different, but they still matter.

And if you’ve ever felt alone in your convictions, this one is for you.

The Christy-Faith Show | Ep. 77

🛠️ LINKS & RESOURCES

Free Homeschooling Resources
Find everything you need to simplify and strengthen your homeschool journey:
👉 https://christy-faith.com/links

Thrive Homeschool Community
Join Christy-Faith’s online community for mentorship, encouragement, and real friendships that last:
👉 https://christy-faith.com/thrive

Christy-Faith’s List
A curated directory of homeschool-friendly service providers, businesses, and colleges:
👉 https://christy-faiths-list.com

Christy-Faith’s Book: Homeschool Rising
📖 Encouragement and strategy for starting strong or starting over:
👉 https://christy-faith.com/book-homeschool-rising

About our Guest: Zan Tyler

Zan Tyler speaks to the heart of Christian parents like few others. Zan’s own homeschool journey began in 1984 when she was threatened with jail. She has spent more than three decades advocating for homeschool freedom, publishing curriculum and resources, and joyfully equipping parents to thrive in their homeschool journey. She is an uplifting speaker, author, and the host of the Zan Tyler Podcast, an encouraging and practical weekly podcast.

Free digital download: When Homeschooling Is Hard

👉 https://zantyler.com/resources

🎙️ SHOW SPONSORS

BJU Press Homeschool
✔ Flexible structure with a biblical worldview
✔ Built-in critical thinking and hands-on learning
👉 https://www.bjupresshomeschool.com/christy

CTC Math
✔ Online, self-paced K–12 math curriculum
✔ 50% off plus a free trial for Christy-Faith listeners
👉 https://ctcmath.com/how-it-works/home-school?tr_id=CF

LearningRx
✔ Cognitive skills training for kids with ADHD, dyslexia, and more
✔ $50 off assessment with code HOME50
👉 https://LearningRx.com or call 866-272-4601

Lovevery – The Reading Skill Set
✔ Game-based, science-backed reading program
✔ 98% of kids improved in just 6 weeks
💰 https://lovevery.com/christyfaith (code CHRISTY10)

🎧 SHOW RECAP

Long before homeschooling became a household term, it was not just rare. In many states, it was illegal. In this episode, Christy-Faith and Zan Tyler uncover the history of homeschool legislation and what it truly cost to push for change.

✅ Why a simple request to hold her son back led to legal threats
✅ How Zan responded when the state superintendent threatened jail time
✅ What early homeschool families risked in order to protect their kids
✅ How far we’ve come—and why the fight for homeschool rights is not over
✅ Why the homeschool movement is rooted in conviction and courage
✅ What you can do today to protect your family’s educational freedom

If you’ve ever questioned whether your decision to homeschool really matters, this episode is a powerful reminder that it absolutely does. You are not just educating at home. You are helping carry a legacy forward.

📌 Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a homeschool friend who could use a dose of encouragement and perspective.

💬 Have you ever faced pressure or skepticism about homeschooling? Share your story in the comments.