Episode 26 - Transforming Education and Empowering Families Through The Indiana Choice Scholarship Program
Description
On this episode of Education Matters, John Elcessar, Executive Director of Indiana Non-Public Education Association, Molly Collins, Executive Director of Policy and Government Affairs at IQE, and Cesar Roman, Director of Community Engagement for MySchoolOptions, dive deep into the transformative impact of the Indiana Choice Scholarship (Voucher) Program, highlighting its growth, the barriers families face, and the advocacy efforts aimed at achieving universal school choice.
The discussion emphasizes the importance of awareness, community engagement, and the financial benefits of the program for both families and the state. Together, John, Molly and Cesar express their shared vision and optimism about the future of school choice and the potential for significant changes in the upcoming legislative session.
Key Takeaways
- Origins of the program in 2009 (tax credit initiative) and expansion in 2011 (voucher program)
- Initial beneficiaries and current status (from 3,919 to 75,000 students)
- Simplification of processes and removal of obstacles
- Statewide collaborative efforts involving various stakeholders (organizations, schools, families)
- Preparation for the 2025 legislative session focusing on universal choice
- Ongoing grassroots efforts and community involvement
- Governor-elect, Mike Braun’s, support for expanding universal vouchers
- Savings for Indiana’s education budget and cost of achieving universal vouchers
- Indiana’s historical leadership role in school choice initiatives
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Learn more about IQE and MySchoolOptions: https://www.i4qed.org
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