It’s been said the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. So why are  24 Republican lawmakers  in Texas threatening to do exactly that? And not on a matter that’s in any way trivial but rather on your child’s education and future.

Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX) is preparing to call a special session in the next few weeks in an attempt to pass school choice in the Lone Star State. Two things should be clear to all lawmakers, regardless of political party. 

The first is that the U.S. public school system is not producing equal educational opportunities or outcomes, particularly in many urban districts that suffer from high dropout rates and lowered standards for proficiency. A recent study found that only  58% of students in urban districts graduated high school, while students in suburban communities had a graduation rate of 75%.  

The second is that throwing more money at the problem is not the answer. If it were, I would be all for it. But U.S. public education remains near the very top in per-pupil spending without the test results to show for it.

For example, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, per pupil spending in public schools has increased by a whopping 64%  since 2019, yet only 25%  of students are proficient in math. Students aren't faring much better at English either, with a measly 35% proficiency rate. 

It’s disappointing that these basic truths about the state of public education are highly politicized — to the point of being dismissed or even ignored. One might infer that the majority of Texas Democrats who oppose school choice are doing so out of a knee-jerk reaction to protect their donations from the local teachers unions at horrifying cost. 

But what is the Republicans’ excuse? If there were ever a litmus test for what a conservative politician should support in office, school choice should be a top priority. Education is the foundation of our society. This is about ensuring America’s economy remains the most competitive globally for the next generation. It also happens to be one of the most important civil rights battles of our time.

Ten states have enacted some form of school choice legislation this year alone. Texas Republicans, it’s time to get with the program. The Lone Star State is America’s second-largest state by population; the rest of the nation looks to Texans to lead. And trust me, people are watching now.

The Texas Senate has already passed school choice legislation this year. It’s time for the House to follow suit. This is a gut check for Texas lawmakers. Do you have the courage to help transform America’s education system, or are you content with the status quo? It’s really that simple. As a mother, I ask that you please do the right thing.

Sarah Jane Allen is the co-founder of the Viante Foundation, which promotes school choice.