EMPOWER TO CHOOSE
EXPLORE SCHOOL CHOICES
Empowered to Choose: Centering Community Voices in Palm Beach County’s School Choice Landscape and the tag line or explanation could be “Empowered to Choose is a community-centered research project exploring how families in Palm Beach County experience school choice. Through interviews and surveys, this project highlights community voices to understand the barriers, opportunities, and perceptions surrounding access to quality education. The goal is to inform more equitable, inclusive policies that truly serve the needs of all families."
About the researcher
Saskya Altieri
Saskya A. Altieri is an educator and advocate with over six years of experience in both public and charter schools across Florida, as well as charter schools in New York. Throughout her career, she has served as a teacher, team leader, and curriculum developer—consistently centering students and community in her work.
In addition to her time in the classroom, Saskya has worked with education-focused nonprofits—many with an emphasis on literacy and culturally responsive learning—to support initiatives that promote equity and access. She currently serves as a Community Outreach Associate, connecting families with vital resources and services to support their well-being and educational success.
Saskya’s passion for education policy is deeply rooted in her lived experiences and professional journey. She is committed to shaping policies that uplift communities, empower families, and ensure that every child has access to a high-quality education.
A Personal Note from Saskya
As someone who has spent years in the classroom and worked closely with families and communities, I know how complex and deeply personal the school choice process can be. This project was born out of a desire to better understand how families—especially those often left out of policy conversations—navigate the systems that shape their children’s futures. I hope this work not only sparks dialogue, but also moves us closer to policies that center community voices, increase transparency, and promote equity in education.