School Choice Advocates: As State of the Union Looms, Education Reform Can Bridge the Partisan Divide

National School Choice Week Demonstrates Support for Education Reform Crosses Party Lines

WASHINGTON, Jan. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As President Obama lays out his 2011 policy prescriptions in tonight's State of the Union Address, school choice advocates are calling for lawmakers in Washington, DC and across the nation to act boldly and unify behind comprehensive plans to provide children with access to better schools.

The organizers of the first-ever National School Choice Week said today that education reform proposals can bridge the gap between both political parties -- a necessity after a contentious 2010 election cycle that upended the political status quo in Washington and in many state capitals.

According to public opinion surveys, bipartisan consensus on school choice makes sense. Overwhelming majorities of voters support providing parents with the opportunity to select from the best schools possible -- from charter schools to private schools, virtual schools and even homeschooling.

"From the President of the United States to state legislators across the country, every lawmaker can benefit by crossing the political aisle and partnering on legislation aimed at helping children," said Kyle Olson, executive director of National School Choice Week. "The good news is that we see many states beginning to demonstrate this leadership. In places like Florida, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, school choice legislation is no longer labeled 'Republican' or 'Democrat.'"

Lawmakers who introduce school choice legislation will find supporters plentiful this week. With more than 125 events in 40 states and the District of Columbia, excitement surrounding National School Choice Week has exceeded expectations, with tens of thousands of people estimated to attend events.

"It is our vision that 2011 will be the year that school choice -- in all of its forms -- becomes the mainstream choice for lawmakers seeking to make lasting and positive changes," Olson said. "National School Choice Week will demonstrate to these lawmakers that there exists a massive support system out there for any lawmaker who is courageous enough to stand on the side of children and families, not special interests dead-set on maintaining the unacceptable educational status quo."

SOURCE National School Choice Week