If you want to take tax dollars away from our public schools, then you should vote “yes” on Amendment 2. 

During the upcoming election, Kentucky has two amendments on the ballot. The proposed Amendment 2 wants to enable the “General Assembly to provide financial support for the education costs of students in kindergarten through 12th grade who are outside the system of common (public) schools.” 

This amendment sounds confusing with its wording. Giving “financial support” to cover educational expenses for families outside of the public school system is very vague language. Given the language of Amendment 2, the state would be able to fund private schools with tax payer money if it is given to families as a voucher or tax credit first. An abundance of private schools tend to be religious schools, therefore this amendment would allow the state to indirectly fund private schools and religious institutions if it was passed.

There are a few issues with funding private schools. The first one is the state funding a religious institution. Within the United States Constitution’s 1st Amendment, the establishment clause says the government can not “establish” a religion. This clause has caused various controversies within our government with what would count as “establishing” a religion.

In the landmark case Zelman v. Simmons-Harris, the Supreme Court decided that states were able to give vouchers to parents and allow them to send their kids to private schools. This case is what allows Kentucky to have this amendment within its constitution. Even though it is legal for Kentucky to pass this amendment, it still weakens public schools’ abilities to teach students effectively.

The other issue with this amendment is not about religion but rather defunding the public school system. Private institutions already tend to receive more financial support due to them charging students to attend. Allowing the state to indirectly find private schools and take money away from public schools hurts those who cannot afford private institutions even with the tax vouchers given to them by the state.

Public schools are supposed to be institutions that allow anyone to get a free and quality education. By taking away these funds, public schools will have less money to get teachers and less money to provide for students, making the divide between private and public schools even greater. 

By voting no to this amendment, you will ensure public schools are still getting the funding they need. You will help the next generation be educated regardless of their financial situation. Private schools already receive enough money; allow our public schools to prosper as well.