WHAT IS SCHOOL CHOICE?
As the name implies, school choice gives parents more options
to better their child's education.
School choice takes many forms:
WHICH STATES SUPPORT SCHOOL CHOICE?
A majority of states in the U.S. support school choice in some form whether through
charter schools, voucher programs, tax deductions and other methods; however,
programs and laws are very weak in most areas and still have a long way to go.
Of the states and regions that are active in implementing school choice programs
are Arizona, Florida, Iowa, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Washington,
D.C. and Wisconsin. By active, we mean their programs go beyond charter school
initiatives. In 2008, private-school-choice policies were enacted or expanded
in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, and Utah-made possible
by increasing bipartisan support for school choice Each state is taking measures
to offer options to parents and children in the various forms described above
such as vouchers, tax deductions and credits and interdistrict and intradistrict
school choice. 4
LOUISIANA POLICIES
Like most states, Louisiana's representative school choice policies and laws
are restricted and are essentially limited to charter schools and voluntary inter-district
school choice. In 2008, private-school-choice policies were enacted in Louisiana.
Louisiana also offers families public school choice options. The Education
Commission of the States reports that Louisiana has enacted two open enrollment
policies: a mandatory inter- and intra-district transfer policy for students
in low-performing public schools and a voluntary inter-district transfer option
for all students.
The Choice Foundation is active in continuing to develop charter schools around
New Orleans and the State of Louisiana in support of school choice for parents
and children. We continue to lobby for legislation that offers more opportunity
for families who want to improve their children's education. We encourage and
support all forms of school choice, as described above and we are dedicated to
pursuing them in Louisiana, and raising awareness about school choice around
the country. 4 How Members of the 111th Congress Practice
Private School Choice. The Heritage Foundation, April 2009. Click here.
Choice
Foundation • 1010 Common St, Suite 2950 • New Orleans,
LA 70112
• 504.523.4521
