June 01, 2017

ExcelinEd in Action National Legislative Director J. Alex Kelly issued a statement following the Texas Legislature’s adjournment without expanding educational options contained in House Bill 21. The bill would have created an Education Scholarship Account program to support more options for children with special needs and equalized the playing field for public charter schools facilities funding.

“We are disappointed that the legislature did not act to expand options for students with special needs or improve facilities at public charter schools. Despite this setback, the momentum for educational choice in Texas is strong and growing. Families’ desire to provide the best learning environment for their children will not be dimmed. We remain hopeful that lawmakers will make empowering parents and students with educational choice a priority and take this critical step that will literally change the lives of families and students.

“Many tireless advocates in Texas have led the charge on expanding educational opportunities for all students. We thank Governor Greg Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Senator Larry Taylor, Senator Donna Campbell and Representative Ron Simmons for their leadership and dedication to equity of opportunity, especially for Texas’ students who are struggling the most. Additionally, we thank Texans for Education Opportunity, the Texas Public Policy Foundation, the Texas Charter School Association, Texans for Quality Public Charter Schools and so many other partners that advocated to get these issues across the finish line.”