Hear all about the school choice issue in new Star-Telegram debate series

Whether you call it “school choice,” “education savings accounts” or “vouchers,” Texas legislators are expected to resume their battle this month over using state education money to help parents pay for private-school tuition and other learning expenses.

But what do the terms mean? What are the best arguments for and against such a plan? And how would Fort Worth-area schools be affected?

To answer these questions, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, in conjunction with the Texas A&M University School of Law, is kicking off a new event series, “Beyond The Headline.” Our goal is to get away from the political heat and offer perspectives on the issues at hand — and you, as a Star-Telegram subscriber, are invited to be in the audience.

The discussion will feature two passionate advocates on either side. Corey DeAngelis of San Antonio is executive director at the Educational Freedom Institute and is widely known as a “school choice evangelist.” Scott Milder of Rockwall is the co-founder of Friends of Texas Public Schools, which aims to highlight strengths and achievements in public education. For one hour, they’ll tee up the best arguments for and against school choice in a policy-focused way, moderated by Star-Telegram Opinion Editor Ryan J. Rusak.

“Beyond The Headline” will kick off at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, at Texas A&M’s campus downtown. It’s in the Amon Carter Lecture Hall at 1515 Commerce St.

Admission is free, but you’ll need to RSVP by email to rrusak@star-telegram.com. Don’t wait; space is limited.

This story was originally published October 2, 2023 at 6:02 AM.