The original intent of mass schooling in the 18th century was as a means of socialization and creating a sense of national unity. Literacy and numeracy skills were a secondary consideration, but for the purposes of creating a more capable workforce.
People talk about teaching kids how to think etc, but not clear to me that's the case at all or that anything has changed in the last 200+ years.
Tbh, I don't really think the home schooling option is right for our family either, but thankfully my Bitcoin savings means we'll be able to afford private schools - still not ideal, but in the UK the difference is stark. When I toured one of the "outstanding" local state schools the halls were full of propaganda about climate change, islamophobia and LGBTQ+ rights. The academic results were not even that great, but that's not the most important assessment criteria for state school ratings.
At least with private schools there is more choice, and kids and parents are better selected for not wanting the state to educate their children.