What do the federal government, the far left, and teachers unions have in common? They are not the primary stakeholders in the education of America’s children – parents are. That is an indisputable fact that has only grown more evident over the past year. The educational pursuits of all students should be put first. Period.

This week, we mark National School Choice Week, a time dedicated to recognizing and celebrating opportunity in education for students across America. From public charter schools to magnet schools, private schools to homeschooling, there are more opportunities than ever for students and their families. In a surprise move, Governor Cooper recognized this week as School Choice Week in North Carolina.

Below are a few facts, courtesy of the American Federation for Children, that paint a clear picture of how school choice is not only empowering families across America, but also students:

• 2021 was the best year ever for school choice, with a record number of states passing or expanding school choice.

• Research shows that school choice programs improve academic outcomes for all students, save money, reduce crime, and help students graduate high school and enroll in college.

• Since 2012, enrollment in private school choice programs has more than doubled.

• 70% of Democrats and 83% of Republicans support giving parents the right to use the tax dollars designated for their child’s education to send their child to the public or private school which best serves their needs.

A high-quality education is an indispensable tool, and America’s children deserve an education that empowers them to reach their greatest potential. By providing families with the freedom to choose the best educational options that meet their child’s unique needs, these young men and women will be equipped with the tools they need to achieve their dreams. This is the year of parents. It is the year of students. It is the year of school choice.

Education Roundtable

Recently, I led a roundtable event alongside Representatives Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Jim Banks (R-IN), James Comer (R-KY), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), and Victoria Spartz (R-IN) where we discussed the totalitarian control of teachers’ unions, the Parent Revolution, and the power of educational freedom. Below is a short excerpt of my opening remarks:

Parents are fed up and so am I. Parents are making their voices heard. They are showing up at school board meetings and pushing back against the teachers’ unions keeping their children out of school. This Parent Revolution is signaling a new era in education. In Congress we are fighting to break the monopoly of traditional government schools and the totalitarian control of teachers’ unions so parents can choose the best learning environment for their child.

To watch the full event, click here.

New Scam Alert

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has issued a new warning of fake websites that advertise free tests for COVID-19. According to the agency, these websites may look legitimate at first glance but there are a few red flags that people should know about. Along with the use of the United States Postal Service (USPS) logo, these websites will also prompt you with a form to fill out. But here’s the important distinction: these fake websites will ask you to provide your Social Security number or Medicare ID. Credit card details may be asked for as well to cover the costs of shipping – another red flag.

To learn more about this scam, click here.

Quote of The Week

“Too many students are up against another "empire”—governments, unions, associations of this, and organizations of that. It’s an education cabal that protects the status quo at the expense of just about everyone else.”

-Betsy DeVos

Have a blessed weekend,