On January 29, President Donald J. Trump signed two important executive orders aimed at reforming education. The first order focuses on increasing educational freedom for families, while the second seeks to eliminate what is termed “radical indoctrination” in K-12 schools.
The first order, Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families, instructs the Department of Education to help states use federal funds to support educational choices in K-12. The goal is to give parents more options for their children’s education.
Many children struggle in public schools. This year’s National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) showed that 70% of eighth graders are not proficient in reading, and 72% are behind in math. Clearly, there is a need for change.
When schools fail, it affects families and communities. The educational freedom movement is gaining traction, emphasizing the importance of giving schools the freedom to innovate and ensuring parental rights in education. This includes providing various options like public schools, charter schools, homeschooling, and online education.
States that back parents’ rights often offer funding through scholarships, vouchers, and educational savings accounts. Ideally, states should let funding follow students to their chosen schools.
The federal government doesn’t dictate state education policies, but it does provide funding. The new executive order encourages states to improve educational freedom by offering federal support.
The second order, Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling, addresses concerns about ideologies that some believe are damaging the education system. It states that parents send their children to school expecting a solid education and a sense of patriotism.
Instead, many parents feel that schools are pushing radical views without allowing for open discussion. The order criticizes ideologies like critical race theory and gender theory, highlighting their potential harmful effects on children. It warns that such teachings can create division and confusion among young students.
The order calls for collaboration among various federal agencies to stop any illegal discrimination within schools. It also emphasizes the importance of teaching the U.S. Constitution, particularly on Constitution Day, September 17.
Additionally, Trump is reestablishing the 1776 Commission to promote patriotic education and celebrate America’s 250th birthday.
For parents interested in better understanding these issues, Equipping Parents for Back to School offers resources on educational freedom and parental rights. This resource could help steer children towards successful educational paths.
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