How Education and Politics Play Out in School Choice Debates

Education is political—and the stakes have never been higher for Black and Latino communities. In this episode of Choice Words, host J. Artists Wright, CEO of Freedom to Choose Schools (formerly FCCS), is joined by Alisha Thomas Searcy, former Georgia State Representative and founder of the Center for Strong Public Schools, and Dr. Atasha James, co-founder of Legends Charter School in Maryland.

Together, they unpack how school choice debates play out in real life—where party politics, interest groups, and self-preservation often clash with the urgent needs of students and families. From the impact of “the big, beautiful bill” to the hidden political costs for leaders who advocate for educational equity, this conversation goes beyond policy into power, accountability, and the courage it takes to disrupt the status quo.