Parents Show Mixed Feelings on Education Department, Unite for Reform and ESAs

Parents Show Mixed Feelings on Education Department, Unite for Reform

In a recent survey conducted by Outschool, a prominent online education platform, it was revealed that parents across the United States are split on the topic of eliminating the Department of Education. However, they are overwhelmingly united in their desire for substantial changes to the current education system. The survey, carried out by ResearchScape International, gathered insights from 1,065 parents of children aged 5 to 18, highlighting a strong demand for personalized learning experiences and increased parental control.

While 81% of respondents agree that the traditional education model is in dire need of reimagining, opinions differ when it comes to governmental oversight. A significant 48% expressed disapproval of dismantling the Department of Education, with 31% strongly opposing the idea. In contrast, around 36% of parents supported the idea to some degree, with a notable difference in opinion based on demographics. Men showed more support for the initiative than women, and political affiliations played a crucial role—41% of Republicans and Republican-leaning Independents favored dismantling the Department, compared to only 19% of Democrats.

Despite these mixed feelings about the federal education system, a resounding 81% of parents feel that traditional approaches to education need a transformation aimed at personalization. Among this group, Gen Z parents are particularly proactive, with 83% advocating for customized educational pathways. Outschool’s CEO, Amir Nathoo, emphasized the importance of engagement and fostering a love for learning in children, stating, "Education is changing, and families deserve better options. What matters most is a child's engagement and love of learning."

Parents have voiced a wide range of worries concerning the current educational landscape. These concerns predominantly revolve around issues such as bullying, social dynamics, inadequate academic performance, and the fear of school shootings. An impressive 82% of parents stated they would utilize school choice funding if it became available in their state. This demonstrates a clear inclination towards exploring alternatives to the conventional public school system.

Furthermore, the survey unveiled significant support for Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and scholarships, with 48% of parents affirming that such options could make alternative schooling more affordable. Additionally, 46% of those surveyed believed ESAs could broaden their children’s educational experiences beyond the traditional classroom environment

When probing into the realm of educational technology, opinions were mixed. Approximately 63% of parents viewed educational technologies as beneficial, though there was noticeable hesitance toward Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the classroom. Men displayed a more favorable view regarding educational technology, with 71% recognizing its advantages compared to just 57% of women. Concerns regarding AI included worries about its potential influence—39% of parents expressed apprehensions about AI's role in education, while 36% highlighted the necessity for establishing clear standards for AI usage, fearing it could facilitate cheating and plagiarism. Nevertheless, 35% of parents remained optimistic about the advancements AI could bring to the educational landscape.

To address the challenges posed by the current educational crisis, Outschool is offering solutions through a diverse platform featuring live, interactive classes tailored to the unique interests and strengths of each child. This approach shifts away from the traditional "one-size-fits-all" model of education, enabling families to design a curriculum that meets the individual needs of their children.

For more insights into how Outschool is transforming the educational experience for children aged 3 to 18, visit Outschool.com.

Survey Methodology

This survey was conducted by Researchscape International on behalf of Outschool, between March 11-13, 2025. The data represents responses from 1,065 U.S. parents of children aged 5-18 and is not weighted.

About Outschool

Outschool is redefining education by offering an innovative approach that caters to the diverse needs of children from ages 3 to 18. They focus on fostering creativity, adaptability, and practical skills, moving away from conventional methods that do not cater to every child's uniqueness. Outschool offers a wide variety of courses, including enrichment lessons, core subjects, tutoring, and social clubs, all aimed at creating a personalized learning experience.

About Researchscape International

Founded in 2012, Researchscape International specializes in conducting custom surveys, utilizing an agile-research methodology that emphasizes timely results. They provide comprehensive research solutions, assisting businesses in making informed decisions based on reliable data.