#United States #Lincoln #Nebraska #school choice #Opportunity Scholarships

Nebraska Families and Students Rally for School Choice

In just two weeks, Nebraska will witness a significant gathering of families, students, and educators at its State Capitol in Lincoln, all coming together for a common cause: advocating for school choice. Scheduled for January 28, this event aligns perfectly with the nationally recognized School Choice Week, a time dedicated to raising awareness and promoting various educational options available to families.

Governor Jim Pillen and State Senator Christy Armendariz will spearhead this initiative. They will be joined by hundreds of students, parents, and educators who aim to highlight the importance of educational freedom and the myriad benefits it brings to families across Nebraska. This gathering will provide a platform to discuss how school choice has not only impacted individual lives but also the overall community.

The event is organized by Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska in partnership with the nonprofit National School Choice Awareness Foundation. It will take place at the Nebraska State Capitol (1445 K St, Lincoln, NE 68508) from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Those attending will have the opportunity to hear directly from legislators as well as students about their personal experiences and the powerful effects that school choice has had on their lives.

Lauren Gage, spokeswoman for Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska, stated, "Nebraska families have long awaited educational freedom and the benefits that come with more school options. We are excited to celebrate the new nationwide scholarship program coming in 2027 this National School Choice Week."

National School Choice Week, running from January 25 to 31, features an impressive 28,000 events across the country. This initiative is designed not just to highlight the various educational options available—including public, charter, magnet, private, online, and homeschooling—but also to empower parents to make informed decisions that best suit their children's unique needs. It encourages families to explore and feel confident in navigating the education landscape.

The National School Choice Awareness Foundation (NSCAF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, strives to showcase how K–12 school choice can significantly alter the trajectory of children’s lives. By guiding parents through the various available options, the NSCAF ensures that every child can find the learning environment that fits them best. The foundation runs several charitable programs, including National School Choice Week, Navigate School Choice, and Conoce tus Opciones Escolares, which aim to illuminate both traditional and nontraditional educational paths.

Overall, the rally at the Nebraska State Capitol promises to be a powerful testament to the commitment of families and educators in advocating for educational freedom. The event will undoubtedly serve as an inspiring highlight during a week dedicated to celebrating educational choice across the nation. Families eager to participate in this pivotal event can find more information at schoolchoiceweek.com/events/nebraska-school-choice-rally or can contact Lauren Gage at [email protected] or by phone at 402-205-7047.