Trump Launches School Choice Push at White House Event

President Donald Trump kicked off the return-to-school season on Monday by pushing his administration's school choice plan and promising to hand control over a child's education back to parents. He made these pledges while speaking at a White House gathering with Education Secretary Linda McMahon, alongside students, families, and teachers. The president stated his team is working hard to broaden school options and clear what he labeled "far left extremism" from classrooms.

"They're the ones that love our children. They're the ones that should be in charge," Trump said regarding parents. He insisted that even though the United States spends a lot on education, student results must get better and families deserve more choices for schooling.

"We want every parent to have the power to send their child to a high-quality school that shares their values. It's so important," he told the crowd. Trump also pointed to the Education Freedom Tax Credit. Starting in 2027, this program will give taxpayers a credit of up to $1,700 for eligible donations to scholarship-granting organizations. Those groups can offer scholarships covering private school tuition, tutoring fees, school costs, and classroom supplies. The funds could also help students currently attending public schools.

The White House noted that nearly 52 million students might qualify for the Education Freedom Tax Credit. Trump further highlighted changes to 529 education savings plans. These rules now let families withdraw up to $20,000 every year for K-12 costs, which is double the old limit.

Several parents came to the event to share how wider school choice could help their households. Caleb Griffith, a father of five from North Carolina, explained that two of his kids have special needs. He said the Education Freedom Tax Credit will give his children "access to the services they need to be successful in the most formative years of their lives."

"I want you to know we only get one chance to educate our children, and our children are the future of America," Griffith added. Linda McMahon told the audience her administration seeks a "hard reset" in American education with a goal of returning "to common sense."

"This school year, American parents and students have so much to be excited about because the Trump administration is steering education back to its rightful focus, serving students so that they are prepared for successful futures," McMahon said.