Statement from Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos on Visit to St. Andrew Catholic School




(March 3, 2017)


U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos issued the following statement after today's visit to St. Andrew Catholic School in Orlando, Fla.:


Parents deserve the right to choose the education that is best for their child.

Today's discussion at St. Andrew illustrates the transformative and positive impact of school choice. Children should not be denied the right to attend a high-quality school that allows them to pursue the American Dream.

I am proud to join President Trump in his efforts to empower all of America's school children — including students from low-income families who are often trapped in underperforming schools — with educational opportunity. We have an obligation to put parents in charge and provide every child with the chance to reach their full potential.

Denisha Merriweather, who was able to attend a private school when her public school did not meet her needs, exemplifies the hope and positive impact of school choice, and her story should serve as a model for the nation.

For far too long, the one-size-fits-all education system has failed far too many children, and I applaud President Trump's forward-looking vision to put students first.

Regardless of the type of school, we must support great schools, great teachers and offer every child an equal opportunity to a great education.



Information source: U.S. Department of Education