Gov. Ivey Signs Controversial “School Choice Week” Proclamation
Gov. Kay Ivey, herself a former public-school teacher, has been a strong advocate for controversial school choice in the state of Alabama during her governorship. In a proclamation declaring this as "School Choice Week" in the state, Ivey noted that Alabama students are the reason she sought a second term. That was a key point in her recent "State of the State" address.
In her proclamation Ivey emphasized the expansion of the CHOOSE Act, which provides $7,000 in education savings accounts (ESAs) for eligible students. Additionally, Ivey also signed an executive order confirming Alabama’s participation in the newly created Federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program, also known as the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit. Both the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit and the Alabama Accountability Act use tax credits for private educational funding, boosting Alabama’s existing school choice framework, according to Ivey.
“Our students are the foundation for a better future for Alabama,” Ivey stated as she signed the proclamation. “Every child deserves access to a quality education that meets their unique needs and helps them reach their full potential. My goal is to continue to make Alabama the most school choice friendly state in the nation.”
The week is being celebrated across the state with special activities. 390 schools and organizations in Alabama have partnered to raise awareness of K-12 education options.
There are seven options to choose from for schools in Alabama; traditional public, public charter, public magnet, private, online learning, home school and microschool.
School choice is not without its critics. Organizations like Alabama Arise and the Alabama Education Association, argue that policies like the CHOOSE Act siphon crucial funding from public education, lack accountability, and increase inequality. They contend these programs function as subsidies for private education rather than helping the neediest students.
School Choice Week runs through Saturday.
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