Latino Families Left Behind in Arizona’s ESA Program

As debate intensifies around school choice policies, critics often overlook the very families these programs aim to serve. A June article from CNN titled, “Arizona is sending taxpayer money to religious schools — and billionaires see it as a model for the US,” focuses on Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program but notably lacks Latino perspectives. Despite Latinos making up one-third of Arizona’s population and nearly half of its K-12 students, the article misses a crucial demographic. This omission underscores a wider issue: opposition to school choice often stems from ideological biases rather than genuine concern for underprivileged children.

Krissia Campos Spivey, the director of Conoce tus Opciones Escolares, advocates for parental choice in education. As a mother with children enrolled in a traditional public school, she appreciates the value of public education. However, she emphasizes the need for diverse voices in discussions about school choice, particularly those of Hispanic parents like herself.

Many critics of school choice approach the topic from an ideological perspective, often divorced from the realities faced by disadvantaged families. These critics, generally from stable backgrounds, may not be in touch with the challenges many parents endure. National survey data reveals a strong desire for school choice among minority groups; 76% of Black parents and 66% of Hispanic parents expressed interest in alternative schooling options in 2023.

Supporters point to numerous benefits associated with Arizona’s ESA programs. For instance, a remarkable 70% of private schools in Arizona cater to students with special needs, illustrating the tailored educational environments available. Although the ESA program’s projected cost could rise from $332 million this fiscal year to $429 million next year, this expenditure represents a mere 2% of the state’s total K-12 spending. Additionally, cross-district open enrollment policies enable nearly one-third of Arizona’s publicly funded students to attend their school of choice.

The impact of school choice extends beyond statistics; it resonates profoundly on a personal level. In her role, Spivey has engaged with over 700 Hispanic parents in the past year, all of whom demonstrate a clear commitment to their children’s educational welfare. Latino families, significantly represented in K-12 education, actively support policies that expand educational choices. The unique challenges faced by Latino students call for varied educational options tailored to diverse needs.

Education stands as a pillar of national growth and democratic principles. With a considerable segment of K-12 students being Latino, it is critical for both critics and lawmakers to engage this demographic in the conversation. School choice provides essential benefits, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds seeking better opportunities. To nurture the potential of future generations, society must prioritize practical solutions over ideological divisions.

Krissia Campos Spivey is the director of Conoce tus Opciones Escolares, dedicated to increasing awareness about school choice across the nation.