School Choice Week began in Idaho and across America this Sunday, with the goal of raising awareness about the options that parents have for their children's education.

The Week will feature 230 events and activities across the Gem State, including open house events at schools, school fairs, homeschool information sessions, and other celebrations. In addition, a day of events is planned on Thursday, January 25 at the State Capitol.

Nationwide, 32,240 events and activities are being organized to raise awareness during National School Choice Week (Jan. 21-27, 2018), and nearly 7 million Americans are expected to participate. It will be the largest series of education-related events and activities in U.S. history.

The Week brings attention to the different education environments that are available for Idaho’s more than 430,000 children. For example, families in Idaho can choose from traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling. The state's public school open enrollment policy is one of the nation's broadest and most accommodating. The state also offers tuition-free, public online schooling.

Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter issued an official proclamation recognizing Jan. 21-27 as Idaho School Choice Week. In addition, the counties of Benewah and Canyon and the city of Wilder have issued proclamations recognizing School Choice Week in their community.

“We participate in National School Choice Week because we are proud to be able to meet the needs of students with high quality, accredited curriculum and instruction and help them in their goals toward earning their diploma. We know that some students have obstacles, such as health, life circumstances or wanting to pursue professional sports or work, that could prevent them from completing quality education in a traditional classroom model,” said Kathleen Allison, executive director of iSucceed Virtual High School, a statewide online high school serving 450 students in grades 9 to 12 in Idaho.

Celebrated since 2011, National School Choice Week is an independent public awareness effort. The Week is nonpartisan and nonpolitical, and it is not related to any legislative advocacy campaign.

“Across Idaho, there are thousands of dedicated parents and educators working to spotlight educational opportunity this week, and we are grateful for their commitment to improving the lives of children,” said Andrew Campanella, president of National School Choice Week. “We encourage parents across the state to use National School Choice Week as an opportunity to evaluate school options for their children.”

To download a guide to school choice in Idaho, or to learn more about featured events in the Gem State, visit https://schoolchoiceweek.com/states/idaho.

For information on events planned near you, please send us an email with information about your coverage area to pressoffice@schoolchoiceweek.com.

National School Choice Week is an independent public awareness effort designed to shine a spotlight on effective education options for children. National School Choice Week celebrates all types of school options, including traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling. Learn more at www.schoolchoiceweek.com or highlight school choice on social media using hashtag #schoolchoice.