By Representative Randy Alexander

Arkansas is trailing a nation that’s trailing the world in education. In math and science, the U.S. ranks near the bottom among developed countries. And, here in Arkansas, both fourth- and eighth-graders consistently lag behind the nationwide average in reading. We must change course. And we must look not to the politicians, but rather to the parents of our state to guide us.

Every child deserves an excellent education fitted to their particular needs and interests. State government has proved that it can effectively reach and educate many children through its public schools. Sadly, other kids fall through the cracks. How can we help them?

A proven way to serve the underserved is school choice. The idea is simple—and successful. Let parents direct the money reserved for their kids’ education to a public, charter, magnet or private school of their choice. It’s just like picking a college, or buying a house, or purchasing anything else for that matter. It’s an option and a choice.

That ability gives parents what they need—safe, motivating learning environments for their children—and what students want—an engaging education tailored for them.

Decades ago school choice was just an idea. Today, 21 states and Washington, D.C. have some type of school choice program, including our neighbors Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Mississippi; Tennessee is expected to pass a scholarship program this year. In total, 255,000 kids are receiving scholarship assistance to attend schools that work better for them and their parents.

And the evidence shows they are working better. There have been 12 “random-assignment” studies—considered the “gold standard” of social science research—conducted on school choice scholarship programs over time. Of them, 11 found school choice improves student outcomes, while six concluded all students benefit, five found some benefit and others aren’t affected, and only one showed no visible impact. No empirical study has ever found a negative impact from school choice scholarships.

But what about the kids who, for whatever reason, don’t use scholarships and decide to stay in their current public school? The research indicates that they improve too. Of the 23 empirical studies done on school choice’s impact on public schools, 22 found they spur academic gains. One showed no visible impact, and none concluded school choice harms public schools.

School choice is not more tests, paperwork, or regulations saddled on our schools. It’s just an option for parents that gives schools a powerful incentive to serve their children to the very best of their abilities. And when explained to voters, they agree. A 2012 poll by The Tarrance Group found 74 percent of Arkansas voters agree that school choice should be available to Arkansans.

That is why I introduced legislation that, if passed, would bring school choice to Arkansas and make us a national leader.

Although school choice has proved its effectiveness in other states, Arkansas can’t build this student-based system over night. Thus, my proposal starts small, making students in fourth through eighth grade eligible. Moreover, those students must have attended public school the previous semester or be starting school in our state for the first time. Also, students must come from schools with 1,000 or more enrollees.

This pilot phase is similar to what other states have done. Once we see how it impacts our students and schools, we can consider opening it up to more grades.

The goal of this legislation is to provide an excellent education to any student who wants a better opportunity. And the facts show we’re not doing that. But by discussing, pursing, and ultimately enacting school choice, we can begin that important cause today.

For additional information regarding school choice please go to our Facebook page: Arkansas Parents for School Choice; or our website: www.arp4sc.com