Congress is facing a critical decision regarding education in Baltimore, where public schools are struggling to meet basic standards. Recent data from the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program revealed alarming statistics: around 40% of high schools in the district had no students meeting state math proficiency requirements. Additionally, only 7% of students in grades 3 through 8 performed at grade level in math.
Despite significant investment in education over the decades, Baltimore schools have not seen improvements. Since the 1970s, funding has increased by 245%, with an average spending of $21,000 per student each year. Yet, academic performance remains poor compared to other states.
In contrast, states like Florida and Arizona have adopted school choice programs that have shown better results. Florida’s Family Empowerment Scholarship program provides $7,700 per student for private tuition, while Arizona offers around $7,000 through its Education Scholarship Account program. These initiatives empower families and create competition among schools, leading to improved educational outcomes.
An executive order from President Trump aims to reform education by reducing the Department of Education’s bureaucracy and reallocating funds to enhance school choice initiatives. This approach seeks to address the root causes of poor academic performance by allowing federal funds to follow students rather than being tied to specific institutions.
Advocates for school choice believe that it could significantly benefit Baltimore, where many students are trapped in underperforming schools. The proposed Educational Choice for Children Act would ensure that every child has access to a school that meets their needs, regardless of their location. It would also eliminate barriers for charter schools, promoting innovation and higher performance in education.
The situation in Baltimore is not just about numbers; it affects thousands of families who are witnessing the consequences of a failing education system. Parents, teachers, and community leaders see the daily struggles, from overcrowded classrooms to stressed students. Many believe that shifting resources from a growing bureaucracy to effective educational programs could be a turning point for the city.
As Congress considers these options, the future of education in Baltimore hangs in the balance. The focus on school choice may offer a path toward a brighter future for the city’s children, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.