Rockwall Voices Op-Ed
Every January, National School Choice Week invites communities across the country, including those in Rockwall and the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area, to reflect on how families find the best educational environment for their children.
Across Texas, student needs are becoming increasingly diverse, and families are navigating more complex learning challenges than ever before. According to the Texas Education Agency, Texas public school enrollment reached over 5.5 million students in the 2024-25 school year. Even more notably, TEA reports the smallest year-over-year enrollment growth since the agency began collecting data through PEIMS. This is an indicator that many Texas communities are experiencing shifting family needs and changing education patterns statewide.
These trends highlight an important reality: while many students thrive in traditional learning environments, others require different structures, pacing, or instructional approaches to succeed.
School choice is not about competition or comparison. It is about fit. It means giving families access to public education options that support different learning styles and different lives. This can include a parent’s work schedule, a student’s health needs, or a home environment that requires more structure and flexibility than a traditional school day allows.
For families in the Rockwall and greater DFW region, having access to multiple educational pathways can make a meaningful difference. Consider this recent example from a family enrolled at Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville. Their daughter struggled in a setting that did not adequately support her learning needs, leading to frustration and declining confidence. After transitioning to a more flexible instructional model with increased communication between educators and parents, she was able to progress academically at her own pace and rediscover her confidence and enjoyment of learning.
Importantly, school choice expands access without diminishing accountability. Public education options in Texas, including virtual and hybrid models, are tuition-free and held to state academic standards. These models provide additional pathways for students whose circumstances, learning styles, or health needs may not align with a traditional classroom setting.
School choice also empowers parents to play an active role in their child’s education. When families have options, they’re better positioned to partner with educators, advocate for the support their child needs, and find an environment where students feel supported and capable of success.
As we recognize National School Choice Week here in Rockwall and across the DFW area, the focus should remain on students. Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, and school choice helps make that possible by honoring what matters most: the individual needs of each learner.
About the Author:
Rosalyn Petry has completed 15 years in education, serving K12 students for the last 8 years where she has served in various roles as an elementary and middle school teacher, as well as lead teacher, assistant principal, and now principal. Prior to her career with K12, she taught 4th grade bilingual students in a local brick-and-mortar school for seven years. She earned her bachelor’s degree in communication studies with a minor in Spanish, then completed her master’s in Christian education. She is passionate about helping teachers grow their students and looks forward to continued student growth at TVAH.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this Op-Ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of The Rockwall Times. We encourage a respectful exchange of perspectives to enrich our community dialogue.
