Thousands Rally in Montgomery for School Choice

This week, thousands of people across the country are coming together in the name of education. It’s national school choice week and supporters took the steps of the state capitol to promote educational options and current legislation.

Gov. Robert Bentley as well as other lawmakers, teachers, and students were all in attendance to share how school choice has impacted their lives. Alabama’s first school choice law was passed during the 2013 Legislative session, forming a scholarship program for low-income families and those who are stuck in underperforming schools.

“I love the parental support and the diversity in the crowd among from the business groups, the educators, the public schools, the private schools. It’s the essence of school choice,” Ibrihim Lee, the principal at Bellingrath Middle School in Montgomery, told Alabama News Network.

“I would encourage all parents to research any school before you put your child in. I think there are good and bad of everything we do in life, in every organization. When charter schools do come, there’re going to be good charter schools and bad charter schools. I think its finding the one that’s the best fit for your child , that’s the most important part,” Anthony Brock, the head of school at Valiant Cross Academy, said.

This is the second year for the event, which highlights the school choice initiatives that have been enacted over the last several years. Last year, the Legislature approved charter schools in Alabama, providing parents with yet another choice in educating their children.