The report found that Jane and John Doe aren't the only ones who can't define vouchers, neither can parents in two large cities where vouchers are already used Cleveland and Milwaukee. Although it doesn't really understand vouchers, the public has not bought the rhetoric on either side of the debate. Advocates are convinced that vouchers will save public schools. Opponents worry that vouchers will destroy public schools. So far, there is no clear evidence of success in any existing public or private voucher program.
Results are mixed at best.
Public school parents agree 55 percent say they'd send their kids to private schools if money were not an issue. Nor do they seem bothered that public funds could go to religious schools. However, the majority said that they believe public schools will fight to get better or hold their own when faced with a student drain caused by vouchers. It's likely that your community reflects Public Agenda's findings. There will be much more written and spoken over the next few months, and I urge you to remember the perception that private schools are better and to let your community know it's not just business as usual at your school.