Today, the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America, through its Institute for Public Affairs, applauded an announcement made by President Bush on Friday that he would ask Congress to appropriate $50 million for a “national school choice incentive fund.” The fund is designed to foster school choice initiatives and programs throughout the country by making grants to states and localities interested in creating school choice programs.

Nathan J. Diament, director of the Union’s Institute, issued the following statement in connection with the President’s announcement:

The Orthodox Jewish community applauds President Bush’s appeal to Congress for the creation of a $50 million national school choice incentive fund. President Bush understands a fundamental principle, which Judaism has taught for centuries, that children learn best when their parents guide their education.

The Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations commends President Bush for his commitment to improving America’s educational system for all children.