(OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.) – House Bill 3585, which would mandate standardized testing for private and homeschooled students, was recently introduced in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. As a result, education providers will be compelled to align their methods with the test requirements, limiting flexibility for families to find personalized educational experiences that may better suit their needs.
“Last year, Oklahoma recognized that families should be in complete control of their children’s education with the passage of the Parental Choice Tax Credit,” said Tom Newell, vice president, yes. every kid. “HB 3585 threatens parental choice by requiring private and home schools to teach like public schools. Families opt for alternative educational paths because they are different, not because they are the same, and they should not be subjected to arbitrary standards. We look forward to the governor and Legislature keeping their promise of trusting Oklahoma families with decision-making authority over their children’s education.”
Background:
- In 2023, Oklahoma passed the Parental Choice Tax Credit. The Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit Act empowers families with a refundable personal-use tax credit for those who choose to send their children to private school or homeschool.
- The governor and Legislature affirmed in writing the role of the parent in their child’s education by saying:
- “It is the intent of the Legislature that parents, legal guardians, custodians, and others with legal authority over children in this state be able to choose educational services that meet the needs of their individual children. The Legislature affirms that parents and legal guardians are best suited to make choices to help children in this state reach their full potential and achieve a brighter future.“
About yes. every kid.
yes. every kid. supports policies that respect the dignity of every student, welcome innovative ideas and foster a diversity of approaches to learning. yes. every kid. will support and build coalitions to advance new conversations and bold visions by bringing together differing voices and perspectives to revolutionize the K-12 education experience.
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