Mountain State Times

In the Center for Education Reform's 2024 Parent Power Index, West Virginia secured the eight position, with an Overall Parent Power Index Score of 82%.

The index, designed to assess the degree of parental power in each state, highlights key indicators such as Choice Programs, Charter Schools and Innovation. 

West Virginia scored an 82% in Choice Programs, which represents families' ability to access and choose programs that best fit their needs. 

The state's Charter Schools system, which is based on the availability of alternative educational options for students and families, scored an 82%.

In the final category of Innovation, scored on the state's dedication to fostering creative and personalized learning environments, West Virginia earned an 82%.

While Florida claims the top spot with a 93% overall score, states like Arizona, Indiana, Ohio, and North Carolina follow closely behind in the top rankings, emphasizing a national trend towards prioritizing parental involvement in education.

Kansas, South Dakota, and North Dakota round out the bottom of the list along with six other states that received a grade of ‘F’.

The Parent Power Index serves as a valuable resource for families across the country, offering insights into state-level educational policies and opportunities. 

Through the index's interactive map, parents can explore the status of parental empowerment in their state and discover avenues to advocate for greater involvement and choice in education.

"After a rapid ascent up the parent power peak, West Virginia has firmly established itself as a model state for education freedom. Within a span of five years, both a charter law and a universal scholarship program were passed giving families unprecedented access to new options across the Mountain State. It's not often a state makes such a 180 degree turn but if one needs an example of putting families and students first, then Take Me Home Country Roads," the Parent Power Index notes.

"Governor Jim Justice will leave office knowing that he helped push the Mountain State to new heights when it comes to parent power and education freedom with the creation of the Hope Scholarship, the passing of a charter school law and the funds to make both legislative efforts successful. Job well done, Governor," Parent Power Index said in its assessment of the state’s “Policy Environment.”