Prior to the recess, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform held a hearing titled Opening Doors to Opportunity: The Promise of Expanded School Choice and Alternatives to Four-Year College Degrees. During the hearing, the Committee examined the role of school choice and non-traditional postsecondary pathways in preparing students for the modern workforce. Several Members and witnesses emphasized the declining return on investment of four-year degrees and the urgent need to expand access to skilled trades, apprenticeships, and real-world learning opportunities. Witness testimony highlighted successful programs that connect students with career pathways through internships, mentorship, and apprenticeships—often at no cost to the participant. Democratic members raised concerns about the redirection of public education funds to private education institutions via voucher programs, arguing that such measures undermine public schools and fail to ensure equitable access for all students, particularly those with disabilities. Republican members responded by noting that historic investment in public education has not paid off – citing sub-par educational outcomes amongst US youth. School choice, they argued, will improve outcomes for all students.