Bright future for education: Gov. Kay Ivey's vision for school choice

For years the conversation on education has been dominated by debates over standardized testing, curriculum changes, and — as always — funding disparities. However, the one topic that consistently emerges as a game-changer is "school choice."

Leading the charge in this arena is Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey, whose unwavering support for this issue is steadfast. Her determination to transform Alabama into the most school choice-friendly state in America is a testament to her commitment to the students and parents of our great state.

In 2023, Ivey showcased her dedication to this cause by signing into law two pivotal pieces of legislation: House Bill 363 and Senate Bill 263. The former expands the Alabama Accountability Act scholarship program, making it accessible to even more students and allowing them to attend private institutions. The latter paves the way for charter schools to flourish. These bills are not just paperwork; they represent opportunities, freedom, and the promise of a brighter educational future for countless students.

But Gov. Ivey is not stopping here. She has set her sights on introducing Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) in the upcoming legislative session. These accounts would empower parents, granting them the autonomy to use state funds to select the best educational environment for their children, be it a private institution, a different public school, or even homeschooling. This initiative is anchored in the belief that every parent, irrespective of their financial status or residence, should have the prerogative to choose the optimal school for their child.

It's no secret that school choice plays a crucial role in bridging the educational gap, especially for students hailing from low-income families and minority communities. Ivey's stance on this is unequivocal: school choice is indispensable for enhancing educational outcomes across the board.

However, as with any bold vision, there are detractors. The Alabama Education Association (AEA),  claims that school choice could siphon funds away from public schools, thereby undermining the very foundation of public education. While these concerns are not to be dismissed lightly, it's essential to consider the broader picture. The goal of school choice isn't to diminish public schools but to invigorate the entire educational ecosystem by fostering competition, innovation, and accountability.

Ivey's commitment remains unwavering in the face of opposition. Her belief is steadfast: ESAs will not only grant parents the liberty to choose the best for their children but will also be instrumental in elevating the standard of education for all of Alabama's students.

The future of education in Alabama is bright under the leadership of Governor Kay Ivey. Her relentless pursuit of school choice is not just a policy stance; it’s a bold statement that every child in Alabama deserves the best education possible, and as a  “high stepper” she will fight the fight to make this a reality for Alabama’s success. We must all join Gov. Ivey and seize this opportunity to usher in a new era of empowerment, where parents have the freedom to choose what's best for their children's education. As we champion school choice, we not only foster a generation of independent thinkers and leaders but also revitalize our traditional public schools, ensuring a brighter, more promising future for Alabama's children.

Perry O. Hooper is a former Alabama State Representative and founder of Let the People Speak

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Bright future for education: Gov. Kay Ivey's vision for school choice