This paper analyzes whether certain events in society influence educational choice, in particular, the choice to home school children. Using an epidemiological approach, the article analyzes the perceptions of home-school leaders and others involved in the movement, focusing on the substantive influence of events on the home-schooling movement. It discusses how well-publicized incidents of violence in schools and the poor academic performance of public schools serve to push students away from the public school system. It asks whether these repellant characteristics necessarily translate into an increase in the number of those who are home schooled. It then presents stories and circumstances that have portrayed home schooling in a positive light and asks if such exposure also leads to an increase in the number of home-schooled children. The text cites various stories that reflect an increase in the number of home-schooled students following tragic events in schools, particularly the Columbine High School shooting in Colorado, and how concerns over safety prompt parents to opt for home schooling. The paper concludes that the positive pull of home schooling, combined with the negative push of public schools, has increased the number of those who are home schooled. (Contains 30 references.) (RJM)