Democratic Club

by Mary Larson

LW contributor

Twice in the past 30 years, California voters have rejected school voucher initiatives. Despite this, voters will likely once again be asked to vote on two similar measures in 2022. Both initiatives would reportedly divert billions that would normally go to public schools into private “education savings accounts” for parents.

Every student, regardless of income, would qualify for the funds (although one of the proposed initiatives would limit eligibility based on family income for the first four years it would be in effect). That contrasts with most other states, where school choice plans have been restricted to certain children based on family income, special education status and other factors.

Passage of these initiatives in California would require a change in the state’s constitution, which guarantees Californians a “free public education.”

Most, but not all, Democrats feel that the proposed initiatives commonly referred to as “school choice” have little to do with what is best for the state’s students. Critics contend that these programs would divert funds from traditional public schools, thereby generating unequal outcomes for students. In addition, supporters of the separation of church and state argue that school voucher programs direct tax dollars to religious organizations.

Resolutions similar to the proposed initiatives have been defeated in the California Legislature. The LW Democratic Club does not support the initiative, nor does it support petitions for the initiatives to be placed on the November ballot.

For more information about these initiatives and other issues, LW Democrats and supporters can subscribe to the club’s free electronic newsletter. Email democraticclubsblw@ gmail. com or call editor Mary Larson at (562) 296-8521. People are asked to include their full name, address and phone number, as well as party affiliation.