Why School Choice? Because Competition Works

Cal Thomas | Syndicated Columnist | Updated: Dec 10, 2012

Why School Choice? Because Competition Works

The Obama administration last Friday announced plans to overhaul one of the top issues of the Bush administration: No Child Left Behind. The Bush plan was to bring all students up to achievement levels that would make them proficient in their subjects. Teachers didn't like it, and because their union is a powerful Democratic party ally, the rules are being changed.

States will be allowed to opt out of the law, and 45 of them have said they will do so.

The administration will require opt-out states to expand charter schools, link teacher evaluation to student performance and upgrade academic standards.

The best way is to allow for real competition, and that means school choice. Let private and home schooling compete with government schools and you'll see performance and achievement improve. Let parents become more involved in their children's lives, starting with staying together and teaching them discipline.

There is no mystery about what works in education and life. Competition works in the private sector and it will work in education, too.

I'm Cal Thomas in Washington.

Publication date: September 26, 2011

Why School Choice? Because Competition Works