In a remarkable moment that captured the attention of Nevada's lawmakers and the public, Juliette Leong, an eight-year-old prodigy, has become an influential voice in the state's contentious school choice debate. During a recent legislative session, Leong delivered a compelling two-minute testimony that swiftly went viral, advocating for AB 584—a bold school choice proposal.
Juliette Leong is no ordinary child. Her impressive resume boasts achievements such as performing at Carnegie Hall, winning six national math competitions, and raising substantial funds for nonprofits through her artwork. A TEDx presenter, painter, and an aspiring surgeon and inventor, Leong is homeschooled to accommodate her advanced learning needs.
Addressing the Nevada Assembly, Leong underscored the limitations of traditional public schools to cater to students with diverse educational requirements. "I spell at a third-grade level and do high school-level math, and no school could accommodate my needs. So, I'm homeschooled," she explained. Her speech was not just about her own educational journey but a call to action for providing more options—such as smaller private schools, charter schools, and homeschooling—to families who cannot afford them.
Leong's question to the lawmakers was poignant: "But what about the child with the same potential, except whose family can't afford to homeschool?" She warned that without school choice, gifted students risk being overlooked and their talents wasted.
AB 584, introduced by Governor Joe Lombardo (R), aims to extend vouchers and charter school access to students in underperforming public schools. After a previous school choice initiative faltered under a Democrat-controlled legislature, Gov. Lombardo now has the advantage of veto power, which he can use as leverage in negotiations.
Valeria Gurr from the American Federation for Children highlighted the strategic aspect of the governor's position. With potential veto bargaining, Democrats may have to collaborate to pass certain pieces of legislation.
Despite securing billions in new funding for schools, Nevada's state test scores have stagnated. Gov. Lombardo's allied super PAC, Better Nevada PAC, has found strong voter support for school choice—a sentiment Lombardo is keen to capitalize on before the midterm elections. John Burke, a spokesperson for the PAC, stressed the opportunity for Democrats to work with the governor on reforms benefiting students, teachers, and parents statewide.
Opponents of AB 584 caution that diverting funds from public schools could weaken the traditional education system. Yet, Leong framed the issue as one of equity, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talents and creating opportunities for all children.
Leong's testimony serves as a powerful reminder that diverse perspectives, including those from the younger generation, are crucial in shaping the education debate. As Nevada's lawmakers navigate veto negotiations and funding proposals, they are considering the far-reaching implications of their decisions for the state's educational future.
