Shelby Review

John James, House Representative of Michigan, said that expanding school choice is essential to ensuring all students receive quality education regardless of their background. The statement was made on the social media platform X.

"During National Charter Schools Week, we must continue to recognize the importance of investing in the next generation of Michiganders," said James. "As a co-sponsor of the Educational Choice for Children Act, I'm working to ensure that every student can succeed. Receive the best possible educational opportunities available, no matter their zip code or background."

National Charter Schools Week, held from May 12–16, 2025, marked the 30th anniversary of the federal Charter Schools Program (CSP). This program has supported over 8,300 public charter schools in 43 states, including Michigan. According to the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, the week aimed to highlight the role of charter schools in expanding educational choice, particularly in underserved communities. In Michigan, local celebrations focused on innovation, student achievement, and the importance of school choice in education policy.

As reported by Data Driven Detroit, during the 2022–2023 school year, Michigan operated 373 charter schools serving approximately 150,486 students—about 10.5% of the state’s total K–12 enrollment. While charter school enrollment has steadily increased, traditional public schools have seen a decline. However, CBS Detroit notes that 36% of charter schools in Michigan close within five years, highlighting ongoing concerns about sustainability and educational outcomes.

A national study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that schools in low-income areas with low test scores were disproportionately subject to closure. Additionally, according to the Economic Policy Institute, children from low-income families enter kindergarten with fewer academic skills than their wealthier peers, exacerbating disparities over time. These findings illustrate how socioeconomic and geographic factors continue to influence educational opportunities in the United States.

James has served Michigan’s 10th Congressional District since January 2023. His official House biography describes him as a former U.S. Army captain and West Point graduate who led Detroit-based logistics firms before entering Congress. He advocates for educational choice and co-sponsored the Educational Choice for Children Act aimed at expanding access to K–12 scholarship programs through tax-credit donations.