New Poll Finds Strong Support for School Choice Among African American Families

A new poll released by the Black Alliance for Educational Options (BAEO) and sponsored in part by the American Federation for Children, found 6 in 10 African Americans support school choice programs in their communities. The poll surveyed voters in Alabama, Louisiana, New Jersey and Tennessee.

“These results demonstrate the importance and support of school choice programs by African American families,” said Kevin P. Chavous, executive counsel to the American Federation for Children. “Too often, urban families have children assigned to some of the worst schools in America and vouchers, tax credit scholarship programs and other forms of school choice opens the door to new possibilities, higher quality schools and better outcomes for these children.

Key Findings

• Over 90% of respondents in each of the 4 states surveyed say a candidate’s views on education is important to them before they vote
• 60% of respondents support school vouchers to provide children with scholarships to attend private school
• 70% of respondents support providing parents with more educational choices in their local districts
• Majority of voters support charter schools in their state – 65% in Louisiana and Tennessee

“We applaud our allies at BAEO for conducting this poll and working hard on behalf of African American families who want more educational options,” added Chavous.

For full polling information and a statement from BAEO: http://bit.ly/1MX0iNv.