This initiative would do that. Tens of thousands more students are on waiting lists to participate in school voucher programs. In the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, there are 214 elementary schools and 22 high schools with approximately 25,000 seats available for new students. Together with private Catholic elementary and secondary schools, Catholic schools in the Archdiocese educate over 121,000 students of all faiths. School vouchers would ensure that parents, especially the poor, have a choice.
School choice is a matter of justice, and is imperative for parents facing financial hardship.
Governor Ridge's initiative will help restore parents as the rightful decision makers regarding their children's education. I strongly urge the legislature to approve this initiative promptly.