In what is an elite tweak on home schooling -'" and a throwback to the gilded days of education by governess or tutor -'" growing numbers of families are choosing the ultimate in private school: hiring teachers to educate their children in their own homes.

Unlike the more familiar home-schoolers of recent years, these families are not trying to get more religion into their children's lives, or escape what some consider the tyranny of the government's hand in schools. In fact, many say they have no argument with ordinary education -'" it just does not fit their lifestyles.

"It's a hidden group of folks, but it's growing enormously," said Luis Huerta, a professor of public policy and education at Teachers College of Columbia University, whose national research includes a focus on home schooling.

This article, written by Susan Saulny, appeared in the June 5, 2006 publication of The New York Times.

Published Tuesday, Jun. 6, 2006