WASHINGTON - Some people in the school choice movement worry increasing political polarization and a so-called “Trump effect” could threaten their prospects.

With that backdrop, policymakers and advocates gathered in Washington talked about ways to make their message resonate across the growing divides.

“Guaranteeing, as best as we can, equal educational opportunity for every child in America — that is too big to fall victim to partisan politics or ideological warfare,” said former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman said in a keynote address that echoed a consistent theme of the American Federation for Children’s annual policy summit. "The goal of our education system is not to protect the status quo. The goal of our education system is to give every one of our children an equal education opportunity."

Political strategists at the conference warned of troubling signs ahead of this November’s elections. While overall support for school choice remains strong, they saw some difficult trends.

“Our coalition is holding together,” said Deborah Beck, who runs a Democratic polling firm. “It is under strain.”

She found school choice opinions may be souring among urbanites and people of color, both Democratic-leaning constituencies. She added many Latino and Asian voters – groups usually inclined to support educational options – are anxious about many issues in the country. (more…)