It’s no secret that underperforming school districts hold students back from achieving their full potential. This unfortunate reality came to light during the COVID-19 pandemic when parents at home were given a front seat to their children’s remote instruction and immediately saw the pitfalls of standardized education. Since that wake-up call, parents have become more active in advocating for their children’s educational needs and are speaking up at school board meetings in states across the nation.

But there are more steps to be taken here in South Dakota.

School Choice Week (Jan. 22-28) serves as a reminder to parents, legislators and school boards of their duty to help students reach their dreams by unleashing more innovative approaches to education.

COUNTERPOINT: 'School choice' equals vouchers