NSCW Blog

Where Students Shine: Capitol Rallies, Student Showcases, & More…

By Julia Dvorak, Senior Advisor of State Engagement, NSCAF

Every January, National School Choice Week brings families, educators, students, and community leaders together to celebrate education opportunities in their state. While policy conversations play a role in advancing school choice, it’s the events – the rallies, showcases, and student performances – that truly bring the mission to life.

Step into a capitol rally or indoor student showcase and you’ll immediately feel it: excitement, pride, and possibility. Students from public schools, charter schools, private schools, homeschool communities, and specialized programs take the stage to share their talents – from music and robotics to art, leadership, and innovation. Each performance tells a story of a student thriving because they have access to an education that fits their unique needs.

These moments are powerful because they go beyond talking about school choice, they show its impact in real time. Parents see what’s possible. Educators feel encouraged. Community leaders witness firsthand how education freedom changes lives. And students walk away feeling confident, celebrated, and empowered.

National School Choice Week events also showcase the beautiful diversity of education options in one shared space. Rather than competition, they foster unity around a simple truth: there is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning.

As this January approaches, these events serve as both a celebration and an invitation to witness student success, to hear real stories, and to experience the energy that fuels the school choice movement all year long.

Because when students are given the chance to shine, entire communities rise with them.