How will public schools fare during these turbulent times? And what impact will a new President and Administration have on public education? Covid 19 outbreaks during 2020 changed the delivery of and funding for public school instruction. Locally, Albemarle County witnessed a drop of 900 students, while Charlottesville City saw a drop of almost 200 students. Kindergarten and lower grades have been hit the hardest, both locally and nationally according to a recent survey of educational leaders by Education Week Research Center. 

As public school enrollment declined, private and online for-profit enrollment increased. Pearson, one of the world’s largest education testing and publishing companies, reported a 61 percent increase in applications to its K-12 online learning school Connections Academy. Whether families choose virtual online or hybrid learning with their local public school system or opt out for private schools, private tutors, home-schooling, or for-profit virtual programs depends not just on what is best for their child, but, more importantly perhaps, what is best for family finances. A mix of “light” lecture, aided by PowerPoint slides, and engaging discussion will focus on current events and research, a review of the historical roots of educational choice, an examination of “choice options” from charter schools to vouchers and home schooling, and debate about the future of public K-12 education.