American Federation for Children Mourns the Loss of School Choice Pioneer Annette "Polly" Williams
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Washington, D.C. (Nov. 10, 2014) – The American Federation for Children (AFC), the nation’s voice for educational choice, issued the following statement, upon learning of the passing of former Wisconsin State Representative Annette “Polly” Williams:
“Polly Williams was a tireless advocate on behalf of low-income families and a pioneer in education reform, whose impact has resonated far beyond Wisconsin,” said Betsy DeVos chairman of the American Federation for Children. “Polly’s legacy lives on every day in the lives of hundreds of thousands of children across the country who benefit from school choice as a result of her bold leadership 24 years ago.”
“Polly’s fearless leadership challenged the status quo and laid the groundwork for a national movement that puts the needs of students—especially those in need—first,” added Kevin P. Chavous, AFC’s executive counsel. “We are eternally grateful for Polly’s vision, service and kindness, and join those in celebrating her legacy and mourning her passing.”
Williams helped draft legislation which created the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program (MPCP), the nation’s first school choice program. Today the MPCP serves an estimated 25,000 Milwaukee children.
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The American Federation for Children is the nation’s leading school choice advocacy organization and works in states across the country to help secure additional, high-quality educational options for families.