Ohio should expand school choice during the coronavirus crisis, not constrict it
May 20, 2020This letter to the editor appeared on Cleveland.com.
Shutting down school choice in Ohio, as hinted at in the May 15 op-ed by Susan Kaeser (“Rethink school vouchers in financial downturn”), is the wrong move for Ohio’s students and would bring further uncertainty to families trying to make the best decisions for their child’s education during the ongoing pandemic.
Rather than end a program that has benefited thousands of Ohio’s children, and return to the one-size-fits all education approach that has failed so many students, policymakers should look for smart and innovative solutions that put the needs of students and families first.
Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), which The Buckeye Institute has championed, is one such idea that would directly give families the tools they need to continue their child’s education during future epidemics or natural disasters. This includes such things as equipment for distance learning, tutors, and curriculum support.
Universal open enrollment is another option that would give families the ability to attend schools that offer programming better suited for their child.
Whether it be school vouchers, ESAs, or universal open enrollment, Ohio policymakers must put the needs of families and students first, and not merely fund the status quo.
Greg R. Lawson
Columbus
Greg R. Lawson is a research fellow at The Buckeye Institute.