AFC Calls on Presidential Candidates to Answer Questions on School Choice Views

The American Federation for Children Announces Survey on Parental Choice in Education

WASHINGTON, Aug. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Federation for Children, the nation's voice for school choice, today called on the 2012 candidates for president of the United States—including President Barack Obama and Republican contenders for the GOP nomination—to document their views on educational choice by completing AFC's 2012 Presidential Candidate Survey.

While school choice appropriately remains an issue primarily for state legislators and governors, presidents can use their influence to shape the education debate, encouraging—or discouraging—the enactment of certain policies.  The six-question school choice survey, which does not require signing a pledge, asks candidates to express their views on key issues including school vouchers and tax credit scholarship programs, which largely benefit children from low-income families.  

Since the beginning of the year, momentum for school choice has continued to grow with legislation being introduced in 41 states and Congress.  Called the "Year of School Choice" by The Wall Street Journal, 2011 has seen new and expanded school choice programs in 11 states including Indiana, Wisconsin, Ohio, Florida, and Arizona.

"The next President of the United States will have significant influence over the trajectory and substance of education policy in our nation," said John Schilling, AFC chief operating officer. "Voters need to know which candidates will support expanding educational options so that every child has access to a quality education."

The candidates' views on the highly successful D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program will be of significant importance, as the D.C. voucher program is the only federally funded program.  Recently restored in April 2011 budget negotiations, the program is slated to receive $20 million annually over the next five years.

SOURCE American Federation for Children

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