Show-me Institute Podcast

Susan Pendergrass speaks with Sean McCarthy, Director of Fiscal Policy for the Arizona House of Representatives, about the state’s innovative approach to education. They discuss universal school choice, open enrollment, and the broader implications of Arizona’s funding mechanisms. McCarthy highlights Arizona’s unique position as a national leader in school choice, the role of parental decision-making, and the challenges involved in education budgeting. They also discuss the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program and examine the positive impact this approach has had on rural schools across the state. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Arizona's Fiscal Policy and Education System 00:48 Universal School Choice in Arizona 03:55 Open Enrollment Dynamics and Parental Choices 10:13 Funding Mechanisms and Their Implications 14:59 Challenges in Education Funding and Budgeting 19:59 Arizona's ESA Program and Parental Empowerment 26:55 Rural Education and School Choice Outcomes Produced by Show-Me Opportunity