- United States
- Texas
- Letter
I strongly oppose the proposed universal school voucher program that would allow taxpayer money to be spent on private school tuition. Public funds should remain dedicated to supporting and improving our public education system, not diverting resources away from it. The proposed $1 billion for education savings accounts that families could use towards private school costs is an alarming misuse of funds. Private schools are not required to adhere to the same standards, accountability measures, and student protections as public schools. They can be selective in admissions, potentially discriminating against students with disabilities or other special needs. Funneling money into private education undermines the commitment to providing a free, quality public education for all children regardless of background or circumstances. It threatens to weaken an already underfunded public school system that serves the vast majority of Texas students. Instead of pursuing privatization schemes, we should focus on raising per-student funding to adequate levels, increasing teacher pay and incentives, and ensuring public schools have the resources needed to deliver a comprehensive, rigorous education. Curriculum reform should prioritize evidence-based approaches over ideological agendas. Public tax dollars are meant for public services accessible to all. Enabling families to redirect those funds to exclusive private institutions is a divestment from the very principle of public education. I urge you to reject this voucher bill and uphold our commitment to properly funding schools that serve all of Texas' children.