In 2022, Utah resident Kim Byram faced a challenging situation when her son was subjected to relentless bullying at school. Despite seeking help from administrators, she was informed that their hands were tied, prompting her to look for alternative schooling options to ensure her son's safety.
Kim's options were limited as private schooling was not financially viable, and they were restricted to schools within their designated district. She even considered moving her family across the state if necessary.
Americans for Prosperity (AFP), known for championing education freedom initiatives nationwide, took up the cause of parents like Kim and spearheaded Utah’s first successful education savings account bill, transforming the educational landscape in the state.
Callan Byram, then a middle schooler, had been bullied since first grade without any support from school administrators. The situation escalated in January 2022 when another student physically attacked Callan after he got off the bus at school. Although the incident was captured on a security camera and reviewed by Kim and administrators, no action was taken. This prompted Kim to organize an event to gather signatures calling for changes in Utah’s school policies on bullying and discipline. She shared Callan’s story with various stakeholders but found little success.
Faced with no other option, Kim decided to sell their home and switch school districts. However, Callan encountered similar issues at his new school. Administrators again cited policies that prevented them from intervening effectively. Consequently, Kim spent her days accompanying Callan to class to protect him from further abuse.
AFP-Utah had already been working on solutions through their 'Utah Fits All' campaign advocating for universal education savings accounts for K-12 families. Upon learning about Kim's plight, AFP partnered with her to provide the necessary resources and support.
“If it will help even one child get out of that situation that my son has been in for most of his life, I will do what I need to do,” said Kim.
AFP employed grassroots strategies and mobilized a diverse network of stakeholders including parents, educators, and concerned citizens who canvassed neighborhoods and contacted legislators. Their efforts enabled Kim to testify before decision-makers who finally listened.
In 2023, the state legislature passed the “Utah Fits All” Scholarship program making all K-12 students eligible for $8,000 in scholarship funds while providing a $6,000 raise for qualifying teachers. This legislation empowered parents and students by ensuring access to high-quality education while supporting educators.
Thanks to this program, Kim enrolled Callan in a private military school where his academic performance and quality of life have significantly improved as he can now pursue his education without fear of bullying.
Despite facing opposition, AFP remains committed to rallying support for student-centered policies and amplifying the voices of families nationwide.
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