Restore the ability of the local school board to levy funds for district technology expenses. Allow school districts to accept credit or debit card payments transacted in person or through the Internet. In addition to responding to the needs of our patrons, this legislation will allow collections to be made on a more timely basis and reduce processing time. Although proponents of the voucher system believe that it will strengthen the public schools through competition, we believe that such a system will reduce needed resources while diminishing diversity in the public schools. We also believe that rather than costing less money, a fully implemented voucher system would cost the state more money.
Public schools provide the common experience that helps ensure a democratic society.