Arr! Behold the evidence that the choice o' schools be a treasure trove fer both parents and scallywag scholars!
2023-08-27
Arr, mateys! Let me tell ye, the choices o' yer parents 'ave the power to revive and invigorate one o' the grandest triumph tales in American learnin'!
In a humorous tone, the author discusses the potential of parental choice in renewing and reinvigorating American Catholic schools. They point to Florida, which has the most expansive system of school choice in the country, as proof of concept. Catholic schools in Florida are thriving, with waitlists and new schools opening. The author cites a report from Step Up For Students, which reveals that Catholic school enrollment in Florida has risen by 4% over the past decade, while it has declined in other states like New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania.The author attributes the resurgence of Catholic schools in Florida to school choice. With the expansion of eligibility for state-funded choice scholarships, more parents have been empowered to choose the schools they believe are best for their children. This has led to an increase in diversity within Florida Catholic schools, with more students with special needs and students of color being served.
The author emphasizes that religious liberty has not been compromised in Florida, as Catholic schools have not had to compromise their core beliefs or autonomy to accommodate students using state scholarships. They also highlight the advantages of Catholic schools during the COVID-19 pandemic, as they reopened sooner and produced better academic outcomes compared to traditional district and charter schools.
The author urges supporters of Catholic education to seize the moment and momentum of the expanding school choice movement. They emphasize the need for Catholic schools to diversify their offerings and effectively inform parents about their choices. In places where state choice programs are not feasible, the author suggests leaning into federal legislative initiatives, such as the Education Choice for Children Act.
Overall, the author sees the remarkable expansion of school choice as a historic opportunity for Catholic schools to serve more children and families. They express optimism that Florida's success will inspire and motivate other states to embrace parental choice in education.