Jefferson Reporter

The Hill recently featured an article by U.S. Senator Katie Britt, who advocates for educational freedom to empower parents and create opportunities for children across the nation. Senator Britt emphasizes her personal experience as a mother of two school-aged children in shaping her perspective on universal educational choice.

"My perspective as a mom of two school-aged kids informs nearly everything I do as a United States Senator, and it is through my own life and conversations with other parents that I came to understand the importance of achieving universal educational choice as an option for every student in America," wrote Senator Britt. "When it comes to education, one size does not fit all. Every family should be empowered to make the best possible choice for their child’s education."

Senator Britt supports the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), introduced by Senator Bill Cassidy, which aims to expand educational options for students and families. She has cosponsored this legislation in both the 118th and 119th Congresses, asserting that educational freedom is essential for families making decisions about their children's futures.

"Expanding parental choice in education has always been good policy, and the need to do so has only grown over the past few years," Senator Britt continued. "Existing data demonstrate that fourth- and eighth-grade reading scores remain below 2019 levels, despite the federal government adding nearly $200 billion above baseline K-12 education spending during COVID."

Senator Britt argues that more funding alone does not solve educational challenges but suggests greater parental control over children's education could improve outcomes. The ECCA would incentivize charitable donations to fund scholarships for K-12 education.

This legislative effort follows President Trump's executive order titled "Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families," which directs federal funds towards supporting school choice programs.

Senator Britt's full column can be accessed online.