THOUSANDS ATTEND SCHOOL CHOICE RALLY IN AUSTIN

  

Thousands rallied Tuesday at the state capitol in support of “school choice” policies- using public funds to cover educational options beyond public schools.

Advocates of school choice are calling for the application of free-market principles to public education. School choice advocates are proposing the creation of an Educational Savings Account, which would establish a personal monetary fund for every child to be managed by their parents. Families would be able to use the funds to cover costs associated with education however they chose to pursue it, whether that be through homeschooling, online classes, or a charter school.

The cause has garnered support of Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, both of whom attended yesterday’s rally.

“Every child across this great state has the right to a quality education, and to attend a school that is best for them regardless of their zip code,” said Governor Abbott.” School choice is a civil rights issue, and Texas must ensure that no child is ever stuck in a failing school. As Governor I have seen the proven success of charter schools, and will continue to fight to empower all parents to choose a school that’s best for their child.”

However, critics says pro-school choice legislation would greatly diminish funding for public schools. In September, Brenham ISD set its legislative priorities- one which opposes any bill that promotes vouchers being used to fund charter schools, the other opposes any public school funds being used to support private or parochial schools.

Superintendent Walter Jackson says Brenham ISD strongly opposes the use of public funds to support the agenda of the growing charter school movement. “We also believe that taxpayer funds should not be diverted to pay for tuition to private schools that are not held to the same standards as Texas public schools" said Jackson. "Public funding comes with accountability and government regulations that private schools may not be willing to accept."

“Public school educators fully accept the fact that we must be held accountable for educating the students of our great state. We have accepted that fact for over 150 years" continued Jackson. "However, we will not sit idly by and allow the public school system, the cornerstone of our beloved democracy, to be decimated by a political agenda."

The controversial issue continues as Gov. Abbott and Lt. Gov. Patrick  both called on the House, where the bill died last legislative session without a vote, to pass the proposal this year.