Utah Valley Times

WASHINGTON—A resolution has been introduced by U.S. Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) and his colleagues, led by Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) and Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Ranking Member Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), designating January 21 through January 27, 2024, as National School Choice Week. The resolution aims to address the limited or nonexistent options for parents in choosing a learning program that best suits their children's needs.

"For too many parents, the ability to choose a learning program that meets the needs and circumstances of their children is limited or nonexistent," Senator Romney said. "Parents know what is best for their kids and they should have the freedom to choose the model of education that works best for their family—whether that is public, homeschool, or otherwise."

Senator Scott emphasized the urgency of providing quality education to all children, stating, "It is unacceptable that today – in the United States of America – millions of kids who grew up just like I did still lack access to quality education simply because of their zip code. We cannot leave our kids' education and the future of America's children to chance. Instead, transforming our nation's education system and ensuring every child has access to a quality education must be our call to action every single day."

Dr. Cassidy highlighted the importance of school choice in giving children equal opportunities to succeed, regardless of their income or zip code. "Children should have every opportunity to succeed in school, regardless of income or zip code. School choice provides this opportunity," he said.

The resolution has gained support from a number of Senators, including Tom Cotton (R-AR), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Rick Scott (R-FL), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), John Boozman (R-AR), Jim Risch (R-ID), Katie Britt (R-AL), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Mike Braun (R-IN), Mike Lee (R-UT), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Lindsey Graham (R-SC).

This resolution demonstrates the collective effort of these Senators to promote school choice and empower parents to make the best educational decisions for their families. By recognizing National School Choice Week, they aim to raise awareness about the need for a transformed education system that provides quality education for every child.

The resolution's introduction marks an important step towards addressing the educational disparities that exist based on zip codes and income. It emphasizes the importance of giving parents the freedom to choose the educational model that suits their children's needs, whether it is public, homeschooling, or another alternative.

As the resolution gains momentum, it is expected to spark discussions and initiatives aimed at improving access to quality education for all children. By supporting school choice, these Senators are advocating for an inclusive and equitable education system that prioritizes the success and well-being of every student.