Statement by Bill Cowher

for "Opportunity: Choice"
a program of the Alexis de Tocqueville Institution and Urban Hope

From the public schools of Harlem to the private schools of Milwaukee and Cleveland, school choice is helping thousands of kids get a better education – and thus, a better start on life.

The idea is pretty simple: You give people a choice of schools, rather than simply "one public school, take it or leave it."

The assumption is that parents are capable of directing their child's schooling with competence, intelligence, and love. As Jack Kemp once put it, "The best Department of Education... is a family."

If you're someone who supports this needed reform, and would like to see it spread, I hope you'll join us.

If you're a parent or teacher who would like more information about the choices you may already enjoy in your city – and how to expand them – then you can contact the Opportunity: Choice staff and they'll be happy to assist you.

Thank you, and best wishes –-


Bill Cowher
Head Coach
Pittsburgh Steelers