A recent study uncovered the significant advantages of Ohio’s school choice voucher program for students, especially benefiting minorities, low-income families, males, and struggling learners in the classroom.
Walter T. Blanks Jr., a spokesperson for the American Federation for Children and a beneficiary of the program, shared his personal experience on “Fox & Friends,” highlighting how a scholarship saved his life and transformed his academic path.
“Growing up was incredibly difficult for me. I was in a school environment that was not conducive to my learning,” Blanks Jr. told Ainsley Earhardt.
“I was bullied severely, and despite promises of improvement, my mother knew that waiting was not an option. She discovered the EdChoice Scholarship Program, which ultimately changed the course of my life.”
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“The scholarship truly saved my life, and now I am dedicated to advocating for other students.”
A study by the Urban Institute demonstrated that Ohio’s EdChoice Program led to improved long-term academic outcomes, including higher college enrollment and graduation rates for recipients.
The study showed an 18% increase in college enrollment among Black scholarship recipients and higher college enrollment and graduation rates compared to public school students.
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Beneficiaries of the scholarship had a 16% higher college enrollment rate and an 8% higher college graduation rate than public school students.
Blanks Jr. received a scholarship to a private Christian school after attending a failing public school, which transformed his life both academically and morally.
“It wasn’t just about academics. It was about character and integrity,” he said. “The school instilled values that shaped me into the person I am today.”
“This program was not only a blessing for my family but for many others in Ohio. The evidence is clear – school choice is effective.”
Blanks Jr. went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in journalism and media production, emphasizing the importance of school choice nationwide to provide other students with similar opportunities to succeed.
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“President Trump strongly supports school choice across the country, advocating for the Educational Choice for Children Act. Every family deserves the option to choose the best educational environment for their children,” Blanks Jr. stated. “Children cannot wait any longer.”
