[Independent Record] "Every student learns differently" was a statement echoed by many during Thursday's National School Choice Week rally at the Montana Capitol.The rally, hosted by Americans for Prosperity and the Montana Family Foundation, was attended by about 70 people, including Elsie Arntzen, Montana's superintendent of public instruction.
Signs carried by some of those brave enough to face the cold at the Capitol read "Greater education comes from greater choice" and "Education opportunity for all!"
Proponent Jeff Laszloffy, president of the Montana Family Foundation, said school choice is important because "every child deserves the best."
"It’s the chance for every parent and student to find their best educational fit," Laszloffy said. "Whether that be public, private or home-school."
School choice advocates seek to make public funds available for private schools. This includes private, charter and home-school programs and is in addition to any tuition those schools might charge.
These public dollars could come in forms ranging from tuition tax credits to tax removals, school vouchers or other education services.
Those opposed to school choice often counter that public monies already provide a public school option to students and should not be used to fund private education.