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Summary
A new Virginia poll conducted by Cygnal on behalf of 50CAN reveals strong public support for parental choice in education, despite concerns that the state’s education system is “on the wrong track.”
Key findings:
- Virginia’s Direction: While most believe the state is headed in the right direction, education remains a concern.
- Virginia Opportunity Scholarship: Governor Youngkin’s proposed program has 57% support (net +29), with particularly strong approval from Black (+36) and Hispanic (+55) voters.
- School Choice Support: 75% of respondents favor allowing families to choose schools outside of their assigned zones.
- Reform vs. Funding: 61% prefer system reform over increased funding (28%).
- Election Implications: 42% of voters statewide believe education is on the wrong track, rising to 55% in swing districts, suggesting education could be a key issue in the 2025 elections.
Virginia Institute for Public Policy’s Lindsey Zea emphasizes that parents want a greater say in their children’s education, regardless of income, location, or ethnicity. With upcoming legislative decisions and elections, policymakers may need to address these concerns.