Empowering Parents in Education Choices

Leaders of several teachers’ unions recently sent an open letter urging Democratic governors to reject a new federal tax-credit scholarship program. They argue this step is crucial to protect public education. However, this perspective overlooks the core intent of the law. Its focus is empowering parents to decide on their children’s education, whether in private or public schools.

Parents have unique insights into their children’s needs. Educational debates often prioritize institutions over individual children. These discussions center around systems, sectors, and political frameworks. In contrast, families address education on a personal level, one child at a time. For instance, mothers focusing on reading skills for their sons or fathers seeking nurturing environments for their daughters simply aim to make beneficial decisions without political motives. Even public school parents who seek additional support, like tutoring, contribute to public education by enhancing school outcomes.

This law does not serve private interests as claimed. It benefits children, making assistance available to 90 percent of all children, including those in public schools. The legislation recognizes the universal need for educational support, ensuring families that meet income requirements can access necessary resources.

For over 25 years, our organization has observed the results when families are empowered. Scholarships may seem modest, but for parents, they mean the ability to provide for their children’s needs. Union leaders caution that offering families more options weakens public education. Supporting parents is not an attack on public schools. Honoring public education shouldn’t mean denying families the best available options or resources that could aid public school students.

Both public schools and parental choice are important. Strong schools are essential, and so is the freedom for families to select suitable schools or supplemental resources. Governors face a choice: support their states’ families or see donor funds assist children in states that have embraced this initiative. Our nation has always valued individuals making pivotal decisions. Education ranks highly among these decisions.

Trusting parents doesn’t forsake public schools. It respects those responsible for children’s welfare, benefitting society widely. We aim to support all children, whether in public or private schools, aiding parents worldwide in building brighter futures. This is not privatization but confidence in families, a key to strengthening American education.

Darla M. Romfo is the President and CEO of the Children’s Scholarship Fund, a national organization providing over 38,000 children with K-12 scholarships for the 2025-26 school year.