In the midst of a school year like no other, Utah families and educators are gearing up to safely spotlight education options during School Choice Week 2021
Utah families, schools, and organizations are hosting 244 virtual or at-home celebrations during the Week. One of these activities will be the launch of a video series highlighting Utah charter school students, teachers, parents, and staff across the state.
Taking place annually since 2011, School Choice Week is America’s largest celebration of educational choice. While typically the Week is packed with large, in-person events, school choice advocates have adapted to this year’s health and safety protocols, opting for drive through scavenger hunts, virtual information sessions and showcases, online contests, drive-in movie screenings, and more. Across the country, more than two dozen iconic U.S. landmarks and notable buildings will light up in special colors to mark the Week.
Governor Spencer Cox has issued an official proclamation recognizing Jan. 24-30 as Utah School Choice Week. A growing number of communities have issued proclamations recognizing the Week, including the Utah cities of Orem and Price City.
“National School Choice Week unites educators, leaders, and families in pursuit of a common goal: educating and inspiring children for the future,” said Andrew Campanella, president of National School Choice Week. “During this challenging year, let’s show our gratitude for great Utah schools and educators, and talk about how we can better serve Utah families.”
In Utah, there are a variety of educational options to attend including: traditional public schools with flexible open enrollment, charter schools, magnet schools, online academies, private schools, and homeschooling. Utah students with special needs may qualify for a state-run scholarship program for private schools.
Utah families will be raising awareness about these choices at their virtual celebrations, which make up some of the more than 33,000 planned nationwide to spotlight K-12 education options.
To download a guide to Utah school choice, use the Schools Near Me tool to search for schools in your area, or see celebration photos and proclamation updates, visit schoolchoiceweek.com/utah.
