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What are Vouchers?
School vouchers, often referred to as “school choice” programs, use public funds to help families pay for their children’s private education. Supporters say families should receive state support to send their child to a different school if public schools aren't adequately serving them. Opponents worry a voucher program would strip vital funds away from already cash-strapped public schools.
How do they affect Public Education?
Public schools serve 90% of all American children. Vouchers would allow public money to be allocated to private institutions who are held at different, and often not as rigorous, accountability standards and aren't accountable to tax payers. There is no reliable evidence that vouchers improve student success and some have even shown to have negative effects on students. Vouchers discriminate against students with disabilities, strip away students civil rights and worsen segregation.
What are some more affects of Vouchers on Public Schools?
School districts may have to cut budgets
Lay off teachers resulting in increasing class sizes
Cut specialized programs & scholarships
Lessen funding for early college programs
School districts may be pressured to close entire campuses due to a lack of available funding.
Could impact funding for special education and 18 + programs
Could impact student services such as free and reduced lunch
Some States Who Have Tried and Failed (Tap for dropdown)
Texas
In 2017, Texas took a chance at implementing a school voucher program but was so unpopular that by 2019 support faded. Now, Texas is attempting to pass vouchers again.
Nebraska
In the 2024 election, the voters of Nebraska overwhelmingly rejected a school voucher system.
Arizona
In 2022, Arizona launched the largest ever school voucher program. The program became so large and costly that the state is having to cut funding from public schools and vital programs. As of 2024, Arizona is ranked as the worst state for education.
Colorado
In the 2024 election, Colorado voters rejected a ballot measure that would implement a voucher program.
Tennessee
The Tennessee school voucher bill was acknowledged as dead by it's own governor. The bill wasn't put up for a vote because the Tennessee House and Senate were unable to come to agreements about testing and funding.
Maine
Maine's voucher system was struck down by the Supreme Court as unconstitutional based on the grounds of discrimination on basis of religion.
Vermont
Vermont's voucher program faced many legal challenges because it's seen as unconstitutionally biased and inequitable -- providing opportunities to some families and not to others.
Kentucky
In the 2024 election, Kentucky voters rejected a constitutional amendment that would allow for public funds to be allocated to private schools.
Illinois
Illinois' voucher program failed because of widespread concern with the amount of tax dollars going to private schools instead of already underfunded schools and creating more inequality in the process.
Washington, District of Columbia
Washington D.C. saw academic performance decrease after the implementation of a voucher program named "The District of Columbia Opportunity Scholarship Program." In addition to that, the District faced heavy criticism about the decrease in public school funding, a lack of accountability of private schools, and the potential for discrimination, with some arguing that it was "rooted in racism."
To note: Vouchers have been a form of education reform attempted in red states, blue states, and Washington D.C. In either case, they failed as a suitable means to solve the education crisis taking place in our country.
What are the positive arguments?
Increased Parental Choice
Vouchers allow parents to use public funds to send their children to private schools or other educational programs, giving them more options beyond the public school system.
Improved Academic Performance
Some believe that vouchers could lead to improvements in student achievement, as parents would be more likely to send their children to schools that meet specific needs or preferences.
Competition and Innovation:
Some believe that this move would increase competition for all schools, especially public schools, leading to better teaching methods and more innovative educational programs.
Sources that include potential positive aspects of vouchers:
Sources with Additional Information
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