Shaunette Parker, Director of Awareness Events for National School Choice Week, discusses the education climate in South Carolina and the importance of education choice. She highlights the need for options and opportunities for families, especially those from underrepresented groups. Parker emphasizes the importance of parent advocacy and engagement in education. She also discusses the work of the National School Choice Week organization in raising awareness and providing resources for families. The challenges facing the school choice movement include the misappropriation of funds and the polarization of opinions on education funding. The National School Choice Week Foundation measures success through media coverage, website traffic, and the growth of new schools and education programs. Community events and awareness campaigns help foster a better understanding of school choice options among parents and students. It is important to meet families where they are and build trust by engaging with trusted community resources. Strategies for engaging underserved communities include talking to families, letting go of stereotypes, and understanding their unique challenges. The goals for the Education Foundation include expanding awareness campaigns, supporting grassroots communities, and providing concrete tools and resources for parents. The hope for the future of school choice is to expand programs, bridge funding gaps, and ensure that families are part of the education system.   Takeaways Education choice is important for providing options and opportunities for families, especially those from underrepresented groups. Parent advocacy and engagement are crucial for improving education and ensuring that the needs of children are met. The National School Choice Week organization raises awareness and provides resources for families, highlighting the importance of education choice. Challenges facing the school choice movement include the misappropriation of funds and the polarization of opinions on education funding. Success in school choice is measured through media coverage, website traffic, and the growth of new schools and education programs. Community events and awareness campaigns play a crucial role in fostering understanding and engagement with school choice options. Engaging underserved communities requires building trust, letting go of stereotypes, and understanding their unique challenges. The goals for the Education Foundation include expanding awareness campaigns, supporting grassroots communities, and providing concrete tools and resources for parents. The hope for the future of school choice is to expand programs, bridge funding gaps, and ensure that families are part of the education system.   Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice