Author Archives: Christian Braunlich

About Christian Braunlich

Chris Braunlich is president of the Thomas Jefferson Institute and a former president of the State Board of Education.The opinions expressed are his and do not necessarily represent the views of the Institute or its Board of Directors. He can be reached at chris@thomasjeffersoninst.org

Standards Decline: Can They Be Brought Back?

Posted on May 20, 2022 by Christian Braunlich

“… score standards were adopted that made it easier for students to pass; and changes in accreditation regulations let schoolsoff the hook for their failures.” The words of Governor Glenn Youngkin at Thursday’s unveiling of a new report analyzing the decline of … Continue reading →

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Time for Public to Speak

Posted on March 29, 2022 by Christian Braunlich

“I urge you again to contact your Senators and Congressmen …. Tell them you believe this is an unequaled opportunity to help return America to prosperity and make government again the servant of the people.” — Ronald Reagan July 27, … Continue reading →

Posted in Government Reform, State Government, Taxes, Transparency | Comments Off on Time for Public to Speak

Overwhelming Support Shown for Virginia’s Sole Education Choice Program: Highest Backing Among Black Voters

Posted on January 28, 2022 by Christian Braunlich

As National School Choice Week 2022 concludes, the Thomas Jefferson Institute for Public Policy today released results of a polling question demonstrating the overwhelming popularity of Virginia’s sole education choice program. Support is particularly strong in the state’s Black community. … Continue reading →

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A Bold Reform for Education Funding

Posted on January 7, 2022 by Christian Braunlich

(Author’s Note: Eight years ago, we suggested incoming Governor Terry McAuliffe pursue a bold education funding reform that would modernize and supercharge Virginia’s education infrastructure.  He chose not to.  We offer it again, verbatim, to Governor-elect Glenn Youngkin … because … Continue reading →

Posted in Education | 1 Comment

A Win-Win for Virginia

Posted on February 2, 2021 by Christian Braunlich

Candidates love to be on the side of the gods – and supporting reduced pollution and greater economic growth is a “win-win.”  After all, if Virginia can use new technologies to reduce not only greenhouse gases but also what we … Continue reading →

Posted in Economic Development, Environment | Comments Off on A Win-Win for Virginia