Rep. Stefanik: Educational Freedom Is the Key to Our Children's Future

Newsweek

14-05-2025

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Among the many titles I am honored to hold, the most important title by far is mom. Like nearly all parents across New York state, I am deeply concerned about our failing education system and schools. In too many classrooms across New York and America, zip codes determine opportunity. That is not only unacceptable—it's un-American—limiting access to the American Dream for our next generations of kids. For decades, families in underserved communities have watched their children fall behind in underperforming schools, with few alternatives and no voice in the system. It's long past time for that to change.
That's why I'm proud to help lead the Educational Choice for Children Act, legislation that would expand school choice and provide high quality educational opportunities for students trapped in failing school systems. This bill works hand-in-hand with the High-Quality Charter Schools Act, which I've proudly co-sponsored since its inception in 2022. Together, these efforts put students and parents—not failing bureaucracies and bureaucrats—at the center of our education policy.
Representative Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) speaks during a press conference following a Republican caucus meeting at the U.S. Capitol Building on September 13, 2023, in Washington, D.C.
Representative Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) speaks during a press conference following a Republican caucus meeting at the U.S. Capitol Building on September 13, 2023, in Washington, D.C.At the heart of this initiative is the belief that every child, regardless of income or background, deserves access to a high-quality education. The Educational Choice for Children Act incentivizes charitable donations to fund scholarships for K-12 students, empowering families to choose the school—public or private—that best fits their child's needs. Whether that means enrolling in a charter school, moving to a different public school, or finding a specialized private option, this is about putting power in the hands of parents.
Governor Kathy Hochul's failure to address the glaring issue of school choice has left our students in New York trapped in a failing system. Despite spending more than any other state in the nation per student, New York schools continue to underperform.
We know educational choice works. Just look at the incredible achievements of Success Academy Charter Schools in New York City.
Founded by Eva Moskowitz in 2006, Success Academy now serves more than 22,000 students across 57 schools—most of whom come from low-income and minority backgrounds. Despite these challenges, Success students consistently outperform peers from wealthier districts. In 2018, 98 percent of students passed the math portion of the New York state exams and 91 percent passed in English language arts—more than double the state average.
These outcomes aren't a fluke—they are the result of high expectations, dedicated educators, and a school culture that celebrates what Eva calls "joyful rigor." When we give parents real choices and allow educators to innovate, students win.
Unfortunately, entrenched special interests continue to block progress. Teachers unions and big-city bureaucracies fight tooth and nail to maintain the failing status quo, even as generations of students are left behind. But we will not let special interests stand in the way of student educational access and academic success.
Expanding access to high-quality charter schools is not a partisan issue—it's a moral one. And it should unite anyone who believes that education is the great equalizer in America. By giving families more options and making it easier for individuals and businesses to support student scholarships, these two bills represent a significant step forward.
This is not about attacking public schools. It's about acknowledging that one size does not fit all, and that parents—not politicians—should decide what's best for their kids.
We are at a pivotal moment. The High-Quality Charter Schools Act and the Educational Choice for Children Act can help us reimagine education in America. Let's seize this opportunity to give every child—not just the lucky few—a real shot at success.
It's time to stop defending broken systems and start defending the futures of our children.
Representative Elise Stefanik is a Republican congresswoman representing New York.
The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.