The ability and right to choose from a range of alternatives is an important American value. Governor Leavitt supports choice in education. Students and parents may choose from a public school in their area or from a public charter school or magnet school that meets their specific interests or needs.

Increasing velocity (the time it takes to earn a diploma) is a priority of the Leavitt Administration. Students may select the option to take a full twelve years to complete their elementary and secondary schooling or may choose to accelerate their progress through competency-based programs, early college programs, advanced placement exams or similar means that advance students through their schooling on terms other than the time in spent in class. Many more students will takes classes or demonstrate competencies in non-traditional ways such as online classes and time-enhanced (distance) learning.

Post-secondary students may choose from traditional degree offerings or from custom fit training programs geared to a specific occupation or industry. More than ever before students will be able to receive initial education and training, then leave for experience and employment, and later re-enter an institution for more preparation in a seamless system that helps them become life-long learners. Moreover these students will access online courses in unprecedented numbers to upgrade skills, complete a degree, or achieve a needed license. Educational opportunities will be far less place bound and schedule bound and more adapted to the learning styles and schedules of individual students.