WASHINGTON — Donald Trump’s initial presidency was marked by hesitation on the topic of school choice, as noted by Kellyanne Conway, his former aide and campaign manager. “He would say ‘Aren’t we the ones who say it [education] is local? Why would the president of the United States bigfoot all that?’” she explained. However, this reluctance seems to have faded as Trump actively endorses parental choice and education savings accounts, similar to those in West Virginia and Arizona. At a Wisconsin rally, Trump declared, “We want federal education dollars to follow the student, rather than propping up a bloated and radical bureaucracy in Washington, D.C.”
Conway addressed an audience at a recent event promoting school choice, urging advocates to lead with solutions. The gathering featured winners of the Yass Prize, including leaders from charter schools and microschools. She cautioned against making school choice solely about opposing teachers unions, highlighting that union pressure isn’t the only obstacle lawmakers face. In Texas, rural legislators have resisted voucher plans due to concerns about local schools, though changes in political dynamics may soon alter this.
The event in D.C. gathered a diverse group, including parents, pastors, and politicians like Colorado Gov. Jared Polis. Speakers advocated for federal subsidies to follow students to private schools, emphasizing the need for action from the president-elect. With Republicans gaining control in Congress, new legislation could advance, such as a bill from Sen. Bill Cassidy, proposing tax credits for contributions to scholarship groups. Cassidy, whose wife runs a charter school, sees a chance to innovate in school choice under the current administration.
“I think that there’s going to be a real opportunity to promote innovation in school choice,” Cassidy stated. Related: Florida just expanded school vouchers — again. What does that really mean?
Neal Morton contributed reporting.
This story about school choice was produced by The Hechinger Report, a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education. Sign up for the Hechinger newsletter.
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The school choice plan that is controversial, even in Texas
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