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School choice is life-changing

School choice changed my life and can transform thousands of other Texas students’ futures. When my family moved from Montana to Texas, ACE Scholarships enabled me to attend Bishop Gorman Catholic School, where dedicated teachers and a supportive community helped me thrive. Without this scholarship, my family could not have afforded the tuition.

I am a college student at Tyler Junior College pursuing a degree in radiologic technology. Without ACE Scholarships helping to cover the costs of my private school education, I would not be where I am today.

This opportunity gave me more than just academic change; it provided me the foundation, confidence and skills to pursue my dreams in healthcare. Now my younger brother is also an ACE scholar, showing how school choice can impact entire families.

During School Choice Week, we see the bright promise that lies ahead for Texas children.

I will be in Austin on Jan. 30 to share my story with legislators and advocate for expanded school choice legislation. I encourage others who believe in educational opportunity to join me in supporting this crucial cause.

Sincerely,

Jillian Rae

Tyler

Systemic reform needed

Thousands of local personnel have responded to fires in L.A., along with reinforcements from other states, Mexico and Canada, plus Marines, U.S. Navy and National Guard members.

The unprecedented scale of fires in Los Angeles County has overwhelmed resources. This disaster highlights systemic issues in forest management and water resource policies. Decades of insufficient forest thinning, controlled burns, and firebreak maintenance, combined with water mismanagement, have contributed to this crisis.

Recent debates over a 2% reduction in the Los Angeles Fire Department’s budget seem ill-timed. Addressing the root causes — long-term mismanagement of forests and water — remains critical to preventing similar catastrophes. Without systemic reforms, the tireless efforts of firefighters and military personnel will serve only as temporary fixes to recurring, preventable disasters.

Michael Gauthier

Tyler