The troubling education data - and the overwhelming support for change
The headlines are like a broken record.
"Idaho test scores show mixed results," proclaimed the Lewiston Tribune.
"ACT college admissions test scores fall to 30-year low" blared NPR.
Indeed, throughout the nation, ACT scores did fall. Idaho was a bright spot, however. Across subjects, ACT scores in the Gem State have increased slightly. The other mountain states show either stagnation or declines.
It's difficult to find much good news about the direction of K-12 public education. States continue to pour more money into a system that often shows few results. Parents and taxpayers are noticing. In recent polling, only one in four Americans believe K-12 is heading in the right direction.
The good news is that there's overwhelming support to change the system. It is across demographics and transcends political parties.
According to the polling, Americans support ending residential assignments of schools and also support Education Savings Accounts.
Education choice can come in all shapes and sizes - ESA's, charter schools, tax credit scholarships, vouchers, and yes, even public schools.
Thankfully, Idaho has a robust charter school network and Montana is working toward opening charter schools and has also passed an Education Savings Account for special needs children.
Each state can always do more, and we are hopeful political leaders will be looking at ways to fund students, instead of a one-size-fits-all system.
Based on the polling, it's what the public wants. Based on current outcomes, it's what our children need.