Indiana School Choice Program hurts public education

The 2022-2023 voucher program saw an increase in participation and median household income while traditional schools struggle to make ends meet

Dear Neighbor:

This month, the Indiana Department of Education released the annual Choice Scholarship Program analysis. Originally, the program was created to support students from impoverished backgrounds expand their options for education. However, a recent report by the Indiana Capital Chronicle revealed that private school vouchers have benefitted mostly wealthy, suburban families diverting dollars from traditional K-12 community schools.

From the $311.8 million awarded, most recipient households were more likely to make an annual income of $100,000 than under $50,000. In the future, the median income will increase due to the expanded income limit threshold to $220,000 a year. Nearly 97% of families will be eligible for vouchers, further eroding the original intent to provide for economically disadvantaged families. 

87% of Hoosier families choose to attend traditional community schools, yet public education continues to be defunded. As teachers are forced to buy classroom supplies with their personal paychecks, Republicans have siphoned taxpayer money into private pockets.

Every Hoosier deserves a quality, accessible education which can only be ensured by funding public education. State lawmakers have an obligation to provide a uniform and public system of schools, and House Democrats will continue to advocate to prioritize our public schools. 

Please reach out to my office at h26@iga.in.gov with any questions or concerns

Sincerely,

Chris Campbell, District 26 Representative