As I was going to public school, I struggled from first through fifth grade. Teachers prioritized the kids who already understood everything. Meanwhile, students falling behind were left with little to no guidance; I was one of those students. Even when I asked for extra help, the teachers and materials at the public school I was attending were unable to help me.  I even went to tutoring as a kid, and my grades still didn’t improve.

My mom knew that the issue was with the school, not that I couldn’t learn or be taught. She tirelessly searched for aid options, and eventually found the Nevada Choice Scholarship. I was able to attend Mountain View Christian school through the tax-credit scholarship, my first private school. My grades improved within a month. Without the worry of failing, I was able to catch up quickly, enjoying both school and being a kid. I have loved going to school ever since.  Now I am a first-generation college student at the University of Las Vegas!

Families should have the right to send their children to whichever school fits them because every kid is different. Regardless of background or income, these families shouldn’t be forced to send their kids to a school where their kids are struggling. Instead, they should have every resource available to them so they can help their child. Personally, my mom didn’t have any money near to what private schools were asking for, but because of this scholarship, my life was changed forever and set me on the right path. Every kid should have the opportunity to flourish and do great things in life and be whoever they want to be.