Shenango Valley News

This week, U.S. Representative Mike Kelly from Pennsylvania has co-sponsored House Resolution 63, which acknowledges January 26 to February 1 as National School Choice Week. The resolution was introduced by Congressman John Moolenaar of Michigan, Co-Chair of the Congressional School Choice Caucus, along with Chairman Tim Walberg of Michigan from the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and Congressman Burgess Owens of Utah. The resolution currently has 36 co-sponsors.

Rep. Kelly stated his belief in providing parents and children every opportunity to pursue an education that suits them best. "As a former school board member, I believe we must give parents and children every opportunity to pursue the education that is best for them and that puts them on the best path forward from day one," he said.

Congressman Moolenaar emphasized the importance of parental involvement in education: "Parents and students deserve to have the chance to pursue the best education available to them, one that provides the best environment for learning." He expressed gratitude towards his colleagues for supporting this resolution recognizing parents' rights.

Chairman Walberg highlighted the benefits of school choice policies during this observance period: “This week and every week we celebrate empowering families by giving them the opportunity to choose what school will best suit their child’s unique needs."

Congressman Owens pointed out challenges within current educational systems: "Millions of kids in failing school districts can’t meet basic reading and writing standards... Our education system is failing America’s students." He advocates for school choice as a solution.

Previously serving on the Butler Area School Board, Rep. Kelly has consistently supported expanding educational opportunities. In 2023, he led efforts on legislation known as the Educational Choice for Children Act aimed at increasing educational freedom.