Gallup Poll on K-12 Education Satisfaction Sparks Debate

In a recent Gallup poll, adults reported a seven-point increase in their satisfaction with K-12 education. However, former Education Secretary Betsy DeVos challenges this optimism, criticizing the education system's continued failures despite improved access to school choice initiatives. DeVos highlights alarming statistics, stating that 70% of fourth graders in government-run schools cannot read at grade level, underscoring the need for substantial reform. She notes that while some families have enjoyed more educational freedom due to recent policies, the fundamental issues affecting children in public school remain unaddressed. DeVos further argues that parents are dissatisfied with various aspects of their children’s education, and emphasizes support for education savings accounts, which would allow funding to follow the child to the preferred educational setting. Despite the Gallup poll's positive spin, DeVos calls attention to a competing EdChoice poll, revealing that 70% of Democrats and 72% of Republicans favor utilizing education savings accounts, indicating widespread discontent with the current school system. DeVos contends that meaningful change in the educational landscape is essential and urges policymakers to acknowledge the urgent needs of families seeking quality education.