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As we celebrate National School Choice Week, we join millions of families and advocates across the nation in highlighting the transformative power of parental school choice.
In North Carolina, we have much to celebrate as we reflect on the growth and impact of education reform in our state.
Our state’s diverse educational landscape is a testament to the commitment of families, educators and policymakers who believe that one size does not fit all in education.
Today, North Carolina is home to approximately 1.4 million students enrolled in traditional public schools, 140,000 students in public charter schools, 131,000 students attending private schools and 158,000 students being educated at home. These numbers reflect the expanding opportunities for families to find the right fit for their child’s educational needs.
The expansion of school choice in North Carolina is not just a reflection of changing times; it is the result of decades of advocacy, innovation and a steadfast belief in the power of parents.
Programs such as the Opportunity Scholarships program and the Education Student Accounts have opened doors for tens of thousands of students to access high-quality private education. At the same time, the growth of public charter schools has provided families with innovative and flexible options within the public education system. Homeschooling has also seen a remarkable increase as families take an active role in crafting personalized educational experiences for their children.
This progress did not happen overnight.
This progress required the dedication of families who refused to settle for less, educators who embraced innovation and policymakers who prioritized student outcomes over systems.
Together, we have built a state where parents’ voices are heard and respected, and where children have the opportunity to reach their full potential regardless of their ZIP code or financial situation.
But our work is not finished. While we celebrate the strides we have made, we must also recognize the remaining challenges. Too many families still face barriers to accessing the educational options that are right for them. Whether it’s expanding funding for scholarships, addressing inequities in access to charter schools, or providing more resources for homeschool families, we have a responsibility to ensure that every child in North Carolina has the chance to succeed.
National School Choice Week is a reminder of what is possible when parents are empowered to make decisions for their children’s future. It is also a call to action. Let us recommit ourselves to the vision of an education system that serves all children, honors their unique needs, and places parents at the center of the decision-making process so they can be accountable for their children.
To the parents who advocate tirelessly for their children, the educators who innovate and inspire, and the policymakers who champion change: thank you. Together, we are transforming education in North Carolina and creating a brighter future for all.
Mike Long is president of Parents for Educational Freedom North Carolina (PEFNC), a nonprofit organization that advocates for quality educational options through parental school choice.