The word “choice” is word that often has many political ramifications. This word needs to be politically reassigned by the GOP. Rather than being attached to a faux #WaronWomen, this word needs to be front and center in the 2014 election cycle as a tool many parents crave, educational freedom.
2013 was a banner year for School Choice in Ohio. 31,379 students used vouchers this year. That is an increase of 4,311 from 2012. Vouchers are in such a demand in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District that there is currently a wait list.
As the programs expand, expect to hear more stories from parents, like Tera Myers, who have experienced the difference educational choices have provided her children. These personal stories demonstrating the impact School Choice has had on these families will only broaden the support for the movement.
According to the “Schooling in America Survey” conducted in May by the Friedman Foundation, 69% of mothers of school aged children support scholarship tax credits. Parents want educational options. They want the educational freedom that school choice provides.
School Choice is a pivotal issue, which should be repeatedly highlighted in the 2014 election cycle. It’s an issue that unifies and motivates parents across the political spectrum. As a mother whose children attend both public and parochial schools, I can attest to the fact that there isn’t a cookie cutter solution to education. What works best for one child may not work for the other.
That is why educational freedom is so important. Parents know what is in the best interest of their children and deserve to have the tools available to make those choices.