The Bush Administration has pounced on the indices of failing schools to garner support for vouchers as an alternative to committing the proper resources to improve our public education system. The GOP argues that poor parents are entitled to the same choice available to their more wealthy counterparts. The use of public funds for private and parochial schools is in direct violation of both State and U.S. constitutions. There is absolutely no research which demonstrates conclusively that voucher students in private and parochial schools, such as those involved in Cleveland and Milwaukee voucher programs, achieve at higher levels than their public school counterparts. Both parochial and private schools retain the right to select the recipient, whereas public schools are legally required to accept all those who seek admission.
Vouchers thus violate the very principle of universal public education.
All in all, the end result of voucher programs is to pave the way to a private school system funded by taxpayers, yet free of public control and oversight. The United States Senate has taken a positive step in dropping voucher programs from any proposed education legislation. However, our government still has a long way to go toward committing the resources necessary to solving the myriad problems plaguing America's public education system. Now is the time to invest in America's future by providing a quality education, at no cost, to all students. Quality public schools with smaller classes, highly trained teachers, appropriate instructional materials, adequate school buildings, and involved parents should be our national goal.