Yakima Times

As the summer ends and a new school year approaches, children are preparing for their classes with excitement. However, there is a pressing issue that needs attention—Washington state's education report card.

In Washington state, K-12 students are struggling to meet basic math and reading proficiency requirements. Test scores remain significantly lower than pre-COVID-19 levels, enrollment has dropped by 4%, and parents feel excluded from having input into their children's education. A Pew Research Center study reveals that only 16% of Americans believe public education is on the right track. The study indicates that many people attribute this dissatisfaction to schools not spending enough time on core academic subjects, which they see as detrimental to students.

"I have long been an advocate for freedom of choice in education," said an original co-sponsor of H.R. 5, the Parents Bill of Rights Act. This legislation emphasizes five core principles: parents' rights to know what their children are taught, to be heard, to see the school budget and spending, to protect their child's privacy, and to keep their children safe. "Last year, this legislation was passed in the House of Representatives," the co-sponsor noted, expressing hope that the Senate will soon prioritize giving parents a voice.

The Parents Bill of Rights Act aims to ensure transparency and improve curriculum and learning experiences for future generations. Additionally, efforts are underway within the House Appropriations Committee to advance the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies FY25 Appropriations Act. This legislation seeks to direct investment into schools by prioritizing funding for early education, increasing resources for programs assisting children with disabilities, emphasizing career and technical education for students, and providing funds for charter schools while cutting wasteful spending.

"Parents deserve a wide variety of options," stated another advocate for school choice. They emphasized that whether families live in urban or rural areas like Central Washington, it is crucial for leaders to provide America's children with better opportunities for success than the current status quo offers.