Wisconsin v. Yoder (1972)

1) Link to the Actual Opinion
Read the U.S. Reports opinion (PDF)

2) Summary of the Opinion
Wisconsin required children to attend school until age 16. Amish parents objected, arguing that sending their children to high school conflicted with their religious beliefs. The Supreme Court ruled in their favor, holding that the First Amendment’s Free Exercise Clause, combined with parental rights, allowed Amish parents to withdraw their children after the 8th grade.

3) Why It Mattered
This case became a landmark for religious liberty and parental authority in education, showing that state compulsory education laws can yield to fundamental rights.

4) What It Provided or Took Away

• Provided: Strong protection for parents’ ability to make religiously based educational decisions.
• Took Away: States’ absolute authority to enforce compulsory education laws.

5) Overreach or Proper Role?
The Court struck a careful balance. Critics say it privileged religion over civic education; supporters see it as vital protection of religious freedom and parental rights.

6) Plain-English Impact Today
Parents can make educational decisions for their kids based on sincere religious beliefs, even if they conflict with general school attendance laws.

• Parental Rights
• Religion
• Education
• First Amendment