School Choice Is a Path Forward for Our Communities

December 30, 2025

In response to an executive order signed in March to dismantle the Department of Education, Black families are increasingly exploring alternatives to traditional public schools due to concerns about inadequate resources, surveillance-heavy environments, and systemic inequities. Many public schools are investing heavily in security measures like metal detectors and resource officers rather than addressing educational needs, prompting parents to seek homeschooling, charter schools, and other options. The author argues that Black communities have historically created their own educational solutions and urges families not to wait for federal guidance but instead to proactively engage with local school boards, build community networks, and create new educational models.

Who is affected

Black and Brown families and their children in K-12 education
The 90 percent of students attending public schools
Parents pulling children from certain school districts
Students struggling with behavioral or learning challenges
Communities shaped by systemic racism and unequal educational resources
Families in districts with varying state laws and school choice policies

What action is being taken

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is providing $160 million in funding for school safety enhancements
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is making $9.01 million in grants available for school safety
Georgia is distributing $61,000 to each school for safety upgrades under House Bill 268
Georgia has set aside $20 million for student behavioral health and $7 million for hiring student advocacy specialists
Schools are hiring additional school resource officers and purchasing metal detectors
Black parents are pulling their children out of certain school districts and choosing homeschooling and alternative education options

Why it matters

This matters because the potential dismantling of the Department of Education represents a fundamental transformation of public education that will impact millions of families, particularly those in Black and Brown communities already experiencing systemic inequities. The shift is significant because many public schools are prioritizing security infrastructure over educational resources and student support, leaving children with behavioral or learning challenges without adequate help. For Black families specifically, this moment echoes a historical pattern of self-determination in education and requires proactive engagement to ensure children aren't left behind if federal educational structures collapse. The emphasis on school choice and community-driven solutions empowers families to take control of their children's education rather than remaining dependent on systems that have historically failed to serve them equitably.

What's next

Parents should attend local school board meetings to learn about available school choice programs
Families need to research school choice options specific to their state laws and district policies
Communities should partner with churches, community groups, and non-profit organizations to share information about educational alternatives
Parents and students should come together to share experiences about what educational approaches are working
Communities should consider creating microschools and other educational models where existing options are inadequate
Families should build educational networks and prepare for the next school year before Department of Education changes take effect

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint