The Iowa constitution prohibits compelling Iowa taxpayers to support religious institutions with tax dollars. Nearly all nonpublic schools in Iowa are faith-based. Clearly the purpose of public money is to support public schools. Iowa has crossed the line and may not know where to stop. During a time of state fiscal difficulties, it is essential the state first enhance its commitment to public education.
Public education is available to all students and is the cornerstone of our democracy.
The budget process is about making choices. Nonpublic schools are not held to the same standards nor are they required to provide special education services or transportation to their students. The public schools are the only schools that must accept all children and provide all services. Nonpublic schools only have to accept those they choose and who can and will pay tuition. Allowable growth was set at 4 percent, even though it was determined that 6 percent per year for three years was necessary to make up for the cuts in the early 1990s.