FRANKFORT, Ky. — Leading figures in Kentucky, spanning both political parties, are emphasizing the significance of an upcoming school choice ballot measure, as they deliver their final arguments ahead of the early voting period beginning Thursday.
The measure on the ballot asks voters whether Kentucky’s constitution should be changed to permit taxpayer funds to support students enrolled in private or charter schools. Advocates of this amendment include notable Republican figures such as U.S. Senator Rand Paul and his spouse, Kelley. Conversely, the state’s Governor Andy Beshear and Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman, both Democrats, are at the forefront of the opposition against this proposal.
Coleman, who has a background as a public school teacher and administrator, has voiced strong concerns regarding the potential negative impact on public education, including funding cuts and reductions in athletic programs, should the measure, referred to as Amendment 2, gain approval from voters.
Reflecting on her commitment to education, Coleman stated, “I feel the weight of this moment, along with my fellow educators across Kentucky,” while speaking at an event against the proposed constitutional amendment.
Proponents of the amendment contend that expanding school choice will not undermine the public education system. Senator Rand Paul expressed that it could significantly improve the circumstances of students currently facing academic challenges by allowing their parents to select the educational environment that best meets their needs.
During a recent town hall meeting, Paul remarked, “What I see is wasted potential.” Presently, Kentucky’s constitution restricts taxpayer funds exclusively to “common schools,” which have been interpreted by state courts as public institutions.
This ballot measure is one of three school choice initiatives appearing before voters in November. Colorado voters will consider creating a constitutional right to school choice for K-12 students, while Nebraska citizens will vote on repealing a newly enacted law that allocates state dollars for private school tuition.
Many states currently offer some type of state-supported program to help families cover the costs of private school education.
As there are no statewide positions up for election and with Kentucky generally leaning toward the Republican majority in presidential elections, the school choice issue has emerged as the most contentious topic this election cycle. It serves as a battleground for a complex issue that could significantly shape the future of educational funding at a national level.
Early voting in Kentucky runs for three days starting Thursday, allowing voters to cast their ballots without needing to provide an excuse on Friday and Saturday, leading up to the election on Tuesday. Secretary of State Michael Adams has encouraged Kentuckians to participate in early voting due to anticipated high turnout on Election Day.
The push for this school choice amendment comes from a Republican-dominated state legislature. The proposal would not dictate specific tax policies; rather, it would permit lawmakers to create policies aimed at supporting students in private or charter schools. These could include options like tax credit scholarships, education savings accounts, or vouchers.
Coleman critiqued the plan, stating, “There is nothing about a school voucher scheme that will make public education better.” Opponents argue that funding designated for education should only support public schools.
Supporters, however, maintain that the amendment does not intend to attack public schools. Approval of this measure would lead to innovative practices that would benefit both public and private education, according to Paul, who stated, “Competition makes all of the schools better.”
A significant hurdle for charter schools in Kentucky has been the absence of a funding mechanism, which has prevented their establishment.
In Tuesday’s elections, it is expected that Republicans will sustain their legislative supermajorities in Kentucky. Meanwhile, the recent death of Republican State Senator Johnnie Turner has prompted a swarm of eleven write-in candidates aiming to succeed him in the eastern Kentucky seat. Votes cast for Turner and another candidate who has withdrawn from the race will not tally.
Turner was well-regarded for his strong backing of the coal industry and various initiatives in his Appalachian district. He passed away last week due to injuries sustained from an incident in September when he fell into an empty swimming pool while riding a lawn mower.