School choice isn’t theoretical for me. It’s personal, and it’s lived out every day in the families we serve.
As the Executive Director of Romero Academies in Cincinnati, I have the privilege of leading two Catholic schools that primarily serve low-income families. Many of our parents never had access to high-quality educational options themselves. They want something different for their children: a school that is safe, values-driven, academically strong, and deeply rooted in community. School choice makes that possible.
At Romero, we partner with families to form future saints by developing their intellect, forming their character, and nurturing their faith. Our mission comes to life because families are able to choose us. Without Ohio’s EdChoiceScholarship Program, the vast majority of our students simply would not be able to attend our schools. More than 70% of our funding is tied to state scholarships.
I think about families like Tamara’s.
She often shares that she has “always trusted Romero” with her kids. That trust was built through strong communication, meaningful relationships with teachers, and the individualized support her children receive each day. Her children not only grew academically but also developed a love for school—something they hadn’t experienced before.
Today, her oldest child is thriving in high school, a direct result of the academic foundation and character formation he received at Romero. And her younger children continue to benefit from a school where students are known, supported, and loved.
Her story is not unique. It’s what happens when families are given the ability to choose a school that truly meets their child’s needs.
What we see in Romero goes far beyond the classroom. When families choose our schools, they don’t just enroll their child; they step into a community. Parents become more engaged; students grow confidence and faith, and families build relationships that last well beyond graduation.
This work goes beyond academic results; it’s about how families show up for their children, their faith, and their community. That kind of transformation is only possible when families are given the power to choose.
But access is never guaranteed.
Every year, we work to close the gap between what the voucher covers and the true cost of educating a child. We fundraise, we partner with donors, and we advocate because we know what’s at stake. If school choice policies weaken, it’snot institutions that lose first — it’s families.
That’s why advocacy matters. It’s why I speak about this work, engage with policymakers, and share our story. Families deserve the dignity of choice. They deserve access to schools that align with their values and meet their children where they are.
School choice is not about systems. It’s about students who finally feels known, challenged, and supported. It’s about parents who want the best environment for their child. And it’s about ensuring that opportunity is not reserved for those who can afford it — but extended to all.
