Here’s what readers think about tightening school voucher rules

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On Friday, we talked about a possible ballot measure that would increase accountability for the state’s universal school voucher program.

The measure, filed by the state’s largest teachers’ union and a public education advocacy group, would:

• limit the program to families earning $150,000 or less per year
• require voucher-funded schools to follow public school safety rules
• curb wasteful spending in the program

Organizers say the intention of the ballot initiative is not to get rid of the school voucher program, but to eliminate fraud and increase transparency.

Organizers need to collect over 255,000 signatures by July 2 to place the initiative on the November ballot. The proposal is still under review, so it’s not available to sign yet.

Here’s what you said about it:

💬 “I think the ESA program is a great support for families who need it, and I also believe stronger accountability and transparency are much needed within the program. Steps like income limits, safety requirements, and reducing wasteful spending are reasonable ways to protect both families and taxpayers while preserving educational choice. I’m glad voters are getting the chance to weigh in on these matters.” — Mallori Z.

💬 “It is a good start but doesn’t go far enough. The voucher program needs to end.” — Dennis R.

💬 “150 limit purely to defund charter schools, a goal of public school teachers. Safety laws should set minimum requirements for ALL schools. Financial fraud is already illegal. No need for bill except as an attempt to defund charter schools.” — Paul A.

💬 “As a public school educated individual who went on to an Ivy League University, I am not in favor of school vouchers. However, I recognize that vouchers are the new reality in public education. I am definitely in favor of setting standards and controlling what appears to be a program with minimal fiscal controls. Public schools are tightly controlled fiscally and the same should apply for school voucher programs.” — Bonnie C.

💬 “They need to be eliminated entirely and that money needs to go to public schools!” — Jeff H.

💬 “As far as I can see, there are no accountability measures for all of these tax-payer funded grants for private ‘education.’ I am strongly opposed to this total lack of oversight. We have absolutely no idea what this education even consists of, much less what our state’s children are or are not being taught. A literate, educated public is a requirement in a democracy.” — Peggy H.

💬 “I’m for it. Even though our nine children are no longer in the school system, the thought of some of the alleged excessive and egregious use of the program leaves me incensed. Shame on Tom Horne for doing so little that a referendum is necessary.” — Fred G.

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