Episode 35 - A Legislative Recap with Betsy Wiley

In this episode of Education Matters, hosts Cesar Roman and Sarah Milligan sit down with Betsy Wiley, President & CEO of the Institute for Quality Education, to unpack one of the most consequential legislative sessions for school choice in Indiana history. Despite facing a surprise $2 billion budget shortfall, Indiana prevailed—delivering major wins for Hoosier families and students. From the miraculous passage of universal Choice Scholarships to critical funding protections for ESAs, CSAs, and charter schools, this session proved that smart policy and powerful advocacy can overcome even the toughest fiscal environments. Betsy walks us through how it happened, what it means, and what’s next in the ongoing fight to defend and expand educational opportunity across the state. Key Takeaways: Universal School Choice is Coming: Vouchers will be available to all Indiana students by 2026–27. Advocacy Was Essential: Parent and school voices played a critical role in advancing choice. Core Programs Protected: ESAs, CSAs, and charter schools avoided cuts despite the shortfall. Academic Quality Advancing: New math screeners and accountability measures are on the way. 🎧 Don’t miss this inside look at how Indiana became a national leader in education freedom—again. 🔗 Learn more about school choice options in Indiana at myschooloptions.org Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org