How school choice can change the lives of Idaho students

When I reflect on my education, I can’t help but think of the sacrifices my parents made to provide me with opportunities they never had. As a first-generation college student from Nampa, Idaho, I know firsthand the transformative power of school choice – a lifesaver for low-income and middle-class families in Idaho who yearn for better opportunities.

My parents emigrated from Mexico, dreaming of a better life for their children. They worked tirelessly in the fields of Idaho, often putting their dreams aside to ensure that my siblings and I could continue our education. However, despite their hard work, they had to face the harsh reality of an education system that often fails to meet the needs of some students.

It is important that families have choices when it comes to their children’s education. Our family has faced unimaginable challenges, including the loss of my oldest sister in 2005. Although I was too young to remember it, the weight of this grief shaped my childhood and my role in the family.

Like many students in Idaho, I experienced large class sizes, a lack of individual attention, and an environment in which I felt isolated. I was overwhelmed and struggling to keep up, and my academic performance began to decline. It was in this moment of despair that I learned that there was a place for me at Elevate Academy, a charter school that offered a path full of hope.

Walking through the doors of Elevate Academy was a revelation. The warm and friendly environment made the difference. I reconnected with old friends and found myself surrounded by teachers and mentors who truly cared about my success. Their investment in my education fueled my passion for learning and helped me overcome challenges.

At Elevate Academy, I discovered the power of choice. The school’s mission was clear: to help students find their path after graduation, whether that meant continuing their education in college, joining the military or entering the workforce. With the support of dedicated educators, I discovered my passion for criminal justice. Inspired by my teachers, I took an active role in the school community, even helping to establish our youth court. I realized that I wanted to work in juvenile probation, helping children like me who often feel that their future is already chosen for them.

This is what choosing a school was for me, a chance to shape my own fate. Without the opportunity to attend Elevate Academy, I may not be in college today and would not have the support system that was crucial to my development. Instead, I would be lost in a system that did not or could not recognize my potential.

Unfortunately, many Idaho students do not end up on charter school waitlists. Low-income and middle-class families in Idaho often do not have access to the same opportunities as wealthy families. Idaho families are looking for alternatives that will meet their children’s unique needs, whether through charter schools, private institutions or online learning options.

Yet despite these needs, the conversation about school choice remains controversial. A recent article in Idaho Education News highlights the importance of eliminating disparities in education, especially in light of the challenges presented by the pandemic. Low-income and middle-class families deserve the same access to high-quality education as families from higher-income backgrounds.

We must allow parents to choose schools that align with their values ​​and meet the needs of their children, regardless of socioeconomic status. I urge legislators to advocate for policies that ensure every child has the opportunity to pursue their dreams without barriers. Choosing a school meant the world to me, and I hope every student in Idaho has access to the options they deserve.