Two Kentucky legislators engaged in a heated discussion at the Fancy Farm picnic, debating the use of taxpayer funds for private schools, a ballot issue that voters will decide on in November. Democratic Rep. Cherlynn Stevenson criticized the proposed amendment as a threat to public schools, urging voters to reject it. In contrast, Republican Rep. Suzanne Miles argued that the amendment would not harm public education but rather provide parents, regardless of income, the opportunity to choose the best educational environment for their children.
The debate highlighted a significant issue that will draw considerable attention leading up to the November election, which does not feature any statewide races. The proposed school choice measure, supported by the GOP-dominated Legislature, would allow lawmakers to consider utilizing public funds to support private or charter school education if approved by a simple majority of voters.
Stevenson cautioned that the amendment could redirect education funding from rural areas to assist urban and suburban families in sending their children to private schools. She expressed concerns about the potential negative impact on public schools, particularly in rural counties where public school systems are major employers. Miles, on the other hand, emphasized that legislators have increased funding for K-12 schools, demonstrating their commitment to public education.
The discussion highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding school choice in Kentucky, with past efforts facing legal challenges. The recent push to amend the state constitution comes after the state Supreme Court overturned a Republican-backed measure in 2022 that aimed to provide tax credits for donations supporting private school tuition.
Stevenson clarified that while she recognizes the importance of private schools for many Kentucky families, she opposes diverting taxpayer funds from public schools. She likened public education to public safety, emphasizing the shared responsibility and the need to avoid using public funds to benefit a few at the expense of many.
Miles positioned the upcoming election as a critical moment for the state’s education future, urging support for the constitutional amendment to provide freedom and opportunities for all children. The campaign leading to the fall vote will see advocates of school choice facing opposition from groups like the Kentucky Education Association, which represents thousands of public school educators and has voiced opposition to the constitutional change. Governor Andy Beshear, a Democratic ally of the KEA, also criticized the proposed amendment.