Scott Introduces Bill to Increase Educational Options for American Families and Students

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) introduced the Creating Hope and Opportunity for Individuals and Communities through Education (CHOICE) Act to expand opportunities and foster success by providing parents greater options when it comes to their child’s education. 

“A quality education is the closest thing to magic in America,” said Senator Scott. “As a kid, I attended four different schools by the time I was in fourth grade. I know firsthand the life-changing impact of a quality education, and I’ve witnessed the miracles that can happen when parents have the choice my mother never had. When parents have the choice to send their child to a school that best fits their needs, their kids have the best opportunity to succeed.”
 
“It’s parents who know what’s best for their kids, not the government,” said Senator Braun. “Students deserve the choice to find a school where they can thrive.”

“A good education is vital for future success, and parents must have a say in where and how their children learn,” said Senator Cornyn. “This legislation empowers families, particularly those with children who have special needs, to make the educational choices that are right for them, and I’m glad to support it.”

“American students’ potential should not be limited by the zip code their family can afford to live in,” said Senator Rubio. “I am proud to partner with Senator Scott to empower and enable families to choose education options that best suit the unique needs of their children.”

“I have long believed that parents, not the government, know what is best for their children,” said Senator Rick Scott. “That’s why, in Florida, I’ve fought to make sure that school choice isn’t just for the elites—it is for everyone. Every family deserves the chance to send their child to the school that best meets their needs: whether that’s public school, homeschooling or a private school. I’m proud to cosponsor this bill to make sure every child receives the education and opportunity they deserve.”

Background

• Supports parents by eliminating barriers to seek the information necessary to determine a best fit school that can effectively serve their child’s needs;
• Expands school choice programs by permitting states that have established programs for parents of disabled children to use public or private funds for the cost of their children attending a private school to supplement those fund with federal special education funds;
• Authorizes grants to support the design and initial implementation of state programs that allow the parents of a disabled child to choose the appropriate public or private school for their child.