New Poll Confirms Widespread Support for School Choice
The American Federation for Children announced the results of a recent nationwide survey of Americans on the issue of parental choice in K-12 education:
According to a new poll from Echelon Insights, polling more than 1,100 registered voters, a majority of voters are supportive of school choice (65% vs. 19% opposed) while 16% are unsure. This is true across party lines, with 75% of Republicans, 60% of Independents, and 61% of Democrats saying they strongly or somewhat support school choice. Similarly, a majority of voters (55%) say that some or all of the funds the federal government set aside for K-12 education should be directed by parents, with 21% saying that none of the funds should be directed by parents and 24% unsure. Most voters in both parties agree parents should direct all or some of the funding.
Major Findings:
· 65% of voters support school choice
· 55% of voters believe parents should have access to COVID education stimulus funds
Statement from President & CEO, Tommy Schultz:
“The pandemic underscored the need for additional school options, but public support for school choice is nothing new. This year already, at least a dozen states have enacted new school choice programs or expanded existing programs because they’re recognizing just how popular this issue is amongst K-12 families. We are grateful that lawmakers are listening to the needs of families, but millions of children are still waiting for better options. We will continue fighting for those kids and to empower parents with the funds meant to deliver a high-quality education.”
Full details:
Question: School Choice
School choice gives parents the right to use the tax dollars designated for their child’s education to send their child to the public or private school which best serves their needs. Generally speaking, would you say you support or oppose the concept of school choice?
Support:
All: 65%
Race & Ethnicity:
Asian: 68%
Black: 69%
Hispanic: 67%
White: 64%
Party ID:
Democrat: 61%
Republican: 75%
Question: Funding Students over Systems
The federal government allocated $190 billion towards K-12 education from stimulus packages since March 2020, which would essentially be $3,400 for every K-12 student in the country. How much of that funding should be directed by parents?
Support:
All: 55%
Race & Ethnicity:
Asian: 55%
Black: 66%
Hispanic: 58%
White: 52%
Party ID:
Democrat: 53%
Republican: 56%
Date: May 14-17, 2021
