The Choice Channel

“Opponents of school choice excel at finding reasons to deny disadvantaged children expanded educational opportunities. But even the fiercest partisan may shy from blocking the latest school choice proposal. Arizona lawmakers have proposed an opportunity scholarship program for the state’s 7,000 or so foster children. The plan would offer $5,000 scholarships to children in foster care to attend a school selected by their guardians. The measure passed the Arizona House of Representatives last week and awaits consideration in the Senate. This targeted school choice plan would benefit some of the most at-risk children in Arizona. Adults formerly in foster care are more likely to be homeless, incarcerated, and dependent on state services. They’re also more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol and to have poor physical and mental health.” (04/30/06)