Navigating the Waitlist Disappointment: An Insight for Parents.
North Carolina students have benefited from the steadily growing success of the parental school choice movement for over ten years.
From removing caps on our public charter schools to creating innovative programs that help students with special needs, we have had much to celebrate.
So, it feels all the more disappointing when all of that positive momentum hits a roadblock. There is currently the largest waitlist ever of families seeking an Opportunity Scholarship Program (OSP) or Education Student Accounts (ESA+). A remarkable 55,000 students sit waiting, without the state funding necessary to secure their scholarships.
Earlier this year, we were optimistic that more funding would be made available during a short legislative session. However, the North Carolina Senate and House have yet to reach a mutual agreement, while we continue to urge leaders to see HB 823 over the finish line. The bill currently awaits movement in the House.
We want to acknowledge the frustration, disappointment, and financial hardship that many families are experiencing. We have helped families navigate these programs since their creation, so we see, hear, and feel their pain. Tens of thousands of parents have sought to find the best school for their children and as they sit on the waitlist, they have been forced to make tough, time-sensitive decisions. This includes giving up the hope for the education they see best fit for their child for this school year.
Although disappointing, it is important to find the positives that can arise from this situation. We believe that with time, the Opportunity Scholarship Program will be funded adequately to award more students. That is our number one goal. The ongoing advocacy from dedicated and passionate parents will pave the way for future success. In fact, that’s how we’ve come so far in expanding school choice in North Carolina. Remember, you can reapply for the scholarships beginning February 1, and each application cycle brings new hope and possibilities.
Stay strong, stay hopeful, and advocate for the opportunities your children deserve. We will let you know when there are opportunities to jump in and have your voice heard. Together, we can ensure that every child has the chance to shine and receive the education best fit for their needs.
Tomorrow, a group of concerned parents is hosting a rally in an effort to get the attention of legislators when they come back to Raleigh this summer. We are not a part of the rally itself but want you to be aware that it is happening, and members of our PEFNC team are planning to attend.
If you would like your voice heard about clearing the Opportunity Scholarship waitlists, this is a great way for parents to come together and support this effort. You can get more information here.
If you cannot attend the rally, we have a way for your voice to be heard! HB 823 would eliminate the waitlist for Tier 2, Tier 3, and Tier 4 families who have applied for an Opportunity Scholarship, as well as fully fund all ESA+ applicants. Tell Speaker Moore that you are urging him to bring HB 823 up for a vote.
Please reach out to Speaker Tim Moore at [email protected] or (919) 733-3451, Rep. Destin Hall at [email protected] or (919) 733-5931, as well as your Representative and share the following message:
There is still time to act, but it is urgent that the House eliminate the OSP/ESA+ waitlists by passing HB 823.
In your emails, please describe exactly how this is impacting your family so that it is clear to these leaders how urgently this bill needs to be taken into consideration. We encourage you to share which Tier your family is in.
Email or Call Speaker Tim Moore
Email or Call Rep. Destin Hall
Email or Call Your Representative
