Palmetto State News

U.S. Senator Tim Scott, co-chair of the Congressional School Choice Caucus and a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, along with Senate HELP Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy, are set to introduce a Senate resolution recognizing January 26 – February 1 as National School Choice Week. The House version of this resolution was introduced by Congressman John Moolenaar, co-chair of the Congressional School Choice Caucus, House Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg, and Congressman Burgess Owens.

Senator Scott emphasized the importance of school choice in education: “During school choice week, we celebrate the transformative impact education freedom has on the lives of so many students and families. But school choice week also serves as a stark reminder that the magic of a quality education is still out of reach to countless children who desperately need it.” He further stated that transforming the nation’s education system is crucial for ensuring every child has access to quality education.

Dr. Cassidy added his support for school choice: “All families should be able to choose the school that best fits their child’s needs, regardless of zip code or income. School choice empowers parents and ensures children have every opportunity to succeed.”

Congressman Moolenaar highlighted parental rights in education: “Parents and students deserve to have the chance to pursue the best education available to them... I am grateful for the support of my colleagues as we introduce this resolution to recognize parents’ rights.”

Chairman Walberg echoed these sentiments: “This week and every week we celebrate empowering families by giving them the opportunity to choose what school will best suit their child’s unique needs... Our children are our future; it is our duty to ensure they have access to a high-quality education.”

Congressman Owens pointed out issues within current educational systems: “Millions of kids in failing school districts can’t meet basic reading and writing standards... During School Choice Week, we continue the fight to ensure every family is empowered and every child has the opportunity to reach their God-given potential.”

The Senate resolution is cosponsored by Senators James Lankford, Ted Cruz, John Cornyn, Todd Young, and Cynthia Lummis. In addition, several Representatives have cosponsored the House resolution.

The text of the resolution can be found here.