Parents and Politicians Fight Abuse by Teachers’ Unions During Pandemic

The funds would first be available to students currently enrolled in public school or about to enter kindergarten, with no cap on the number who can qualify. In 2026 private- and home-schoolers could be eligible if program participation is less than 5% of statewide public-school enrollment. The state education department estimates students will receive about $4,600 each—the average amount of state per-pupil aid—in the program’s first year. Families can use the funds for private-school tuition, tutors and more. “This is a program that is funding kids,” says state Sen. Patricia Rucker.

West Virginia isn’t the only state putting kids and parents ahead of radical teachers’ unions. The Journal continues:

Meanwhile in Georgia, the House passed a bill last week that would expand eligibility for the state’s voucher program for special-education students. The Senate, which had already passed the legislation, voted to approve House amendments on Monday and the bill is headed to Republican Gov. Brian Kemp’s desk.

In South Dakota this month, Republican Gov. Kristi Noem signed a bill that expands eligibility for the state’s tax-credit scholarship program to students already enrolled in private schools. Last school year the program provided nearly 800 students with scholarships of about $1,800.

The teachers unions remain powerful, as demonstrated in Kentucky, where Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear vetoed a bill last week that would establish a new tax-credit scholarship program. But the state legislature voted late Monday to override the veto, meaning low- and middle-income families will have access to a scholarship fund of up to $25 million financed by tax-credit-backed private donations.

Families could use their portion toward private education in the state’s most populated counties, and for tutoring and other expenses elsewhere. The bill would also allow public-school students to switch school districts.

Two Arizona bills to expand tax-credit scholarships and education savings accounts have passed the Senate and are now in the House. An Indiana bill creating an ESA program passed the House, as it has in Missouri. A Florida bill that would consolidate state scholarship programs into ESAs for some 200,000 students is still percolating in the Senate.

Nearly 50 school-choice bills have been introduced this year in 30 states. It’s a testament to how school shutdowns have made the advantage of education choice more evident, and its need more urgent.

Would you rather live in a state that takes more of your money, denies you the freedom to defend yourself, and holds your children hostage to the demands of an organized racket that only cares about its members? Or would you rather live in a state that protects you, gives you freedom, and leaves your earnings alone?

Action Line: The choice is obvious. If you’re living in a state that doesn’t respect you, your money, or your children, you need to look for a better America, today.