Raleigh Celebrates Student Voices at Annual School Choice Showcase in 2026

Raleigh School Choice Celebration: A Platform for Student Voices

On January 29, 2026, the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh, North Carolina will come alive with the energy and enthusiasm of over 550 students gathered for the eagerly anticipated School Choice Celebration. This vibrant event, synchronized with National School Choice Week from January 25 to 31, will showcase the multitude of K–12 education options available in the Tar Heel State.

At the core of the celebration lies a simple yet powerful message: these students love their schools. Organized by the North Carolina-based Association for Public Charter Schools, in partnership with the National School Choice Awareness Foundation, the event is designed to highlight how school choice positively influences students' lives.

For the past decade, North Carolina has made remarkable strides in expanding educational opportunities, enhancing access to public, charter, magnet, private, online, home, and other non-traditional learning environments. The event will feature heartfelt student testimonials, where individuals will share their personal journeys and experiences that emphasize how school choice has helped shape their academic and personal development.

Rhonda Dillingham, the Executive Director of NCAPCS, expressed the importance of school choice for families in North Carolina. She stated, “Every child deserves access to an education that fits their unique needs, interests, and potential.” This ethos resonates throughout the event, as students from various backgrounds come together to demonstrate their appreciation for being able to choose the educational paths that align with their aspirations.

From 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, attendees will witness an array of live performances, including musical acts and various artistic presentations celebrating the joy of learning. Additionally, a student art exhibit will be on display, showcasing creative works that reflect their educational experiences and the variety of choices available to them.

National School Choice Week encompasses a grand movement across the United States, with more than 28,000 events aimed at raising awareness about educational options for families. The overarching goal is to empower parents, providing them with the resources and knowledge needed to navigate the educational landscape confidently. Through events like the School Choice Celebration, parents can find the best learning environments tailored to their children's individual needs.

The National School Choice Awareness Foundation (NSCAF) plays a crucial role in guiding parents through the intricacies of K–12 school choice. As a nonprofit organization, NSCAF's mission is to enlighten families about the diverse educational opportunities available, ensuring they feel supported and informed throughout the decision-making process. Their programs, including National School Choice Week and Navigate School Choice, actively promote awareness of public, charter, magnet, private, online, and home schooling options, remaining nonpolitical and focused solely on educational empowerment.

For more information about the event in Raleigh, visit schoolchoiceweek.com/events/raleigh-student-showcase. Join us as we celebrate educational diversity, student voices, and the limitless potential that choice brings to every child’s educational journey!