High Octane School Choice

Imbedded in a 160-page education reform bill recently passed by the Florida state legislature is a proposal that would substantially change the school choice initiative, as it currently exists. If Governor Rick Scott signs this bill in to law, the net effect would be that any student-starting next school year- could attend any public school in the state as long as that school has openings. Parents would be required to provide transportation to the school. Also embedded in this legislation are guidelines regarding athletic eligibility. Under the new proposal, a transfer student would be eligible to participate in sports immediately- even if the season has already started- provided that the student did not participate in that sport at another school in the same year.

The Florida proposal could have a major impact on eighth graders who could decide where to attend high school much like selecting a college. This could also cerate a recruiting dilemma for athletic directors.  Many years ago, well before school choice became educational as well as a political issue, the City of Philadelphia public schools had a magnet school system. One high school had a premier music program. Another had a highly regarded science program. Then there were two single sex high schools that were designated college prep only and were highly selective.

Educators really need to focus on the true purpose on a school choice program. Is it to send students to underutilized schools?  Is it to force underperforming schools to close? Will such legislation create defacto segregation (again)?  School choice has merits but they need to be weighed carefully. Some pundits in Florida are expecting a chaotic situation should the governor sign the new bill.

The education community is anxiously awaiting the outcome.

C.2016 Margolis