National School Choice Week begins today in Virginia and across the country.

There are 426 events planned in the Old Dominion State to raise awareness about K-12 school choice, and 21,392 events nationwide.

The events in Virginia, which are independently planned and independently funded, include everything from information sessions and open houses at schools to rallies, policy discussions, and movie screenings organized by community groups. Highlighted events include a large education fair January 24 at Chilhowie Christian Church.

The county of Northampton and cities of Dublin, Portsmouth, Purcellville, and Tazewell have issued official proclamations recognizing January 22-28, 2017 as “School Choice Week.”

National School Choice Week provides families in Virginia with the opportunity to research and evaluate the K-12 school choices available for their children in advance of the 2017-2018 school year. The Week also raises awareness of the importance of providing every child with effective education options.

“Research shows that school choice increases student achievement, boosts graduation rates, and provides children with the tools and knowledge they need to pursue their dreams,” said Andrew Campanella, president of National School Choice Week. “During National School Choice Week, Virginia families will raise awareness of the benefits of school choice, while speaking out about the importance of expanding opportunity to even more families.”

With a goal of raising public awareness of effective education options for children, National School Choice Week will be the largest celebration of education options in US history. – Submitted by Shelby Doyle