Stacey Brown: Navigating School Choice from Home

Stacey Brown, a dedicated homeschool mom, has transitioned from home education to a grassroots advocacy role centered on Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program. Her journey began with personal experiences shaping her perspective on educational choices.

Reflecting on current legislative discussions, Brown emphasizes the crucial nature of the ESA handbook as the Arizona Department of Education prepares to update it. Her advocacy stems from firsthand knowledge gained while navigating options for her children.

The turning point for Brown came when she decided to homeschool a child under her guardianship who had recently left foster care. This decision was rooted in the child’s needs for personalized education, revealing to Brown the potential benefits that were previously unknown to her. “I wish I had known about the ESA program back then,” she admits, expressing a regret for missed opportunities.

Her interest in the ESA was kindled in June 2022 when news circulated about a universal law supporting educational flexibility. Although she supports public education, Brown is passionate about advocating for all educational avenues, including homeschooling and private schooling.

Brown’s commitment to education extends to her own children. After facing significant challenges with her eldest daughter’s speech delay, she chose homeschooling, which led to remarkable progress. The transformation from frustration to clarity in her daughter’s communication has been a highlight of their educational journey.

As an ESA advocate, Brown has faced controversies and misconceptions about the program. “This isn’t a voucher program; it’s a scholarship program,” she clarifies, differentiating between direct payments to parents and the intended purpose of the ESA.

Looking ahead, Brown expresses concern about the political landscape surrounding the ESA, particularly with the upcoming elections. She hopes for a candidate who can balance the needs of public and school choice education effectively. “We need a handbook that stands the test of time,” she says, emphasizing the importance of the guidelines for future educators and families.

One misconception she confronts is the notion that ESA funds can be mismanaged. “Most purchases are legitimate educational expenses,” she asserts, advocating for a better understanding of the program’s objectives, particularly for children with disabilities.

Despite the challenges, Brown is actively involved in shaping policies that enhance educational opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of fair funding access for all students, highlighting that educational freedom is a right that should be afforded to every family.

Beyond educational advocacy, Brown shares a glimpse into her personal life. With a passion for travel, she and her husband aim to visit all 50 states while managing a busy household that has fostered 11 children over the years.

While many have encouraged her to run for political office, Brown remains focused on her current role as an advocate and educator for her children. “I love my family, and I’ll continue to advocate passionately for educational choice,” she concludes.