Leaders from various teachers unions have written an open letter urging Democratic governors to decline participation in a new federal tax-credit scholarship program. They argue that this decision will safeguard public education. However, this perspective may overlook the true nature of the legislation. The law emphasizes empowering parents to choose the educational paths for their children, independent of whether those paths involve private or public schools. This shouldn’t provoke controversy; parents are typically the best judges of their children’s needs.
Education debates often fixate on institutions rather than the students themselves. Discussions center on systems, funding, and political agendas, but families experience education on a personal, individual level. A parent’s priority might be enabling their child to read or finding a safer environment for education, not fitting into political categories. A parent’s effort to improve their child’s reading through after-school programs could inadvertently bolster public education by enhancing outcomes that reflect positively on the school.
The new law doesn’t support private interests as some claim but seeks to benefit children. Importantly, it is designed to assist 90% of children, including those in public schools. This inclusivity ensures that education support isn’t only for a select few. It acknowledges that children across all school types require help and that families meeting income requirements should access resources for their children’s growth.
For over 25 years, my organization has witnessed the positive outcomes when families are trusted. Even a modest scholarship can be pivotal for parents striving to meet their children’s educational needs. Critics argue that expanding educational options weakens public education, yet supporting parental choices isn’t inherently antagonistic toward public schools. Denying alternatives to families when such choices benefit their children does not inherently fortify public education.
Governors face a crucial decision: aligning with either families’ needs or potentially allowing funding to support students in states opting into the program. Our nation trusts individuals to make crucial decisions for themselves and future generations, and education is a vital aspect of these choices. Trusting parents doesn’t equate to neglecting public schools. It’s about acknowledging those most integral to children’s wellbeing, which, in turn, benefits society.
We aim to support all children, whether in public or private educational institutions, and to empower parents striving for a brighter future. This isn’t about privatization but rather faith in families, a key to enhancing American education.
Darla M. Romfo is President and CEO of the Children’s Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships to over 38,000 children for the 2025-26 school year.
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