Bridging the Divide – Centering Students and Families in a Polarized Choice Landscape

Choice has become politically charged, but it doesn’t need to be. This conversation convenes leaders from across the spectrum to ask a sharper question: where can we align around what works for kids — and the families who know them best? The session explores areas of fusion already emerging across systems, as parents exercise greater agency and demand more responsive, high-quality options. As federal education tax credits enter the national conversation, states, districts, and providers face a new layer of opportunity and complexity. How can these policies be navigated responsibly to expand access for all students while strengthening public systems? This is a moment for leaders to move beyond labels and shape innovative, durable solutions — together.