“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” –Proverbs 22:6
Dear Friends:
North Dakota ranks near or at the bottom in public education when compared to other states. Last year, Education Week magazine gave North Dakota a D+ rating for K-12 Achievement. Meanwhile, we are in the top half of per-pupil spending in the nation. So, what is the solution to this problem?
The solution is school choice. In last week’s email, I discussed why Kansas Family Voice of North Dakota® believes that parents know best what type of education their children need to succeed, and Education Saving Accounts (ESAs) are an excellent option to consider when it comes to school choice. These accounts would allow parents to have direct control over public-funds (already designated for their child’s public-education) to be used for educational opportunities like private school tuition, tutoring, alternative curriculums and more!
Almost 30 empirical studies have shown again and again that increased school choice saves taxpayers money, improves academic outcomes for participants and public schools, moves students into more integrated classrooms, and strengthens their shared civic values!
If you agree that ESAs can be an important option for your child’s education, please contact the members of the Senate Education Committee and urge them to support Senate Bill 2142, with amendments that include home-school families!
This committee will be a key decider on the fate of the ESA bill. Their vote could happen any time, so please make your voice heard NOW! It can make all the difference when it comes to protecting family values and school choice in North Dakota.
Sincerely,
Mark Jorritsma
President and Executive Director