Betsy DeVos is known for her polite public demeanor and causing fear in her opposition. Ms. DeVos was chosen by President Trump as secretary of state. She has a strong advocacy for school choice, and it was the reason Trump cited for her choice. Betsy had no prior history with President Trump and lacked Washington experience. The Senate was divided when they narrowly accepted her.
Betsy was a billionaire before marrying Dick DeVos, who claims an even larger family fortune. Betsy spent summers in her youth helping out at the family auto parts company. Her father, Edgar Prince, turned it into a multi-billion dollar business. Dick’s father, Richard, founded Amway, making his son the CEO until 1991. With their vast family fortunes, the DeVos put in much effort to change public policy.
When asked what drew her to education reform, Ms. DeVos reflected back to her first visit to the Potter’s House Christian School. She said, if there was a single event, then the electricity at the school compelled her to keep returning. Ms. DeVos went on to explain how parents are looking for a safe place to educate their children, and the Potter’s House provided well. The DeVos began by sponsoring a few children, later realizing many kids would not benefit. That reason compelled them to become more involved, eventually putting forth a voucher program.
The program did not pass among Michigan voters, but Betsy continued the quest. The program was adopted by the district of Columbia and several other states. Today, Louisiana and Indiana are able to support a million kids in the program.
Betsy has met plenty of opposition beyond the Michigan voter setback. Detroit lawmakers have attempted to halt new charter schools and prevent further growth for existing ones. This prompted Betsy to start the Great Lakes Education Project. The group met Detroit lawmakers, winning the court battle. The lawmakers claim Betsy’s private education has divided her from public education. She snapped back, stating it is the failing Detroit public schools that should be shut down. Ms. DeVos wants equal opportunities for all families, believing they deserve what she was able to give her own children.
Follow Betsy DeVos on Facebook.
Be the first to reply