In going about its work, the commission reviewed the possible effects of school choice in light of the core value of public education: that all children should be thoroughly educated, so that they may pursue their own dreams and contribute to a democratic, egalitarian, and prosperous American society. Drawing from that premise, the commission explored choice in terms of four key issues: benefits to children whose parents choose new schools; benefits to children whose families do not exercise choice; effects on the national commitment to equal opportunity and school desegregation; and advancement of social cohesion and common democratic values.