The Uneven Promise of School Choice: Who Applies vs. Who Benefits

The Uneven Promise of School Choice: Who Applies vs. Who Benefits

April 14, 2026 · 24 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the disparities in school choice participation among different socioeconomic groups and the implications for educational equity.

When public school districts offer options like magnet schools and dual-language programs, families who are richer, whiter, and higher-achieving are more likely to opt in. Meanwhile, students who would benefit most are least likely to apply. In this episode, Chicago Booth economist Chris Campos explains why the participation architecture of school choice matters as much as the quality of the schools themselves, and why information campaigns alone aren't enough to close the gap.

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Guest: Chris Campos

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Organizations: Chicago Booth, Becker Friedman Institute

Places: Chicago

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