Santa Catarina court orders family to enroll seven children in school

A court in Blumenau, Santa Catarina, has ordered Diego and Patrícia Vieira to enroll their seven children in the formal school system. The ruling, issued by the Court of Childhood and Youth, also imposes a fine of 40 minimum wages, totaling approximately R$ 64,800, split equally between the parents.

The Vieira family has practiced homeschooling for 13 years and maintains that their children have achieved high educational and extracurricular standards, including numerous chess medals. Diego Vieira, who serves as president of the Association of Educating Families of Santa Catarina (Afesc), stated that forensic psychologists had previously issued reports confirming the children's well-being and excellent development.

The parents have contested the decision, claiming they have always cooperated with authorities and that the court failed to hear the children's perspectives. They argue their defense of home education is conducted through legal and democratic means. The Santa Catarina Court of Justice has declined to comment on the specifics of the case, noting that the proceedings are under judicial secrecy.