House bill could transform education in Kentucky
The recent decision by the Kentucky Supreme Court to invalidate the 2021 Education Opportunity Accounts law, which aimed to provide families with enhanced access to educational resources, including private school tuition for some, is a significant blow to the cause of educational freedom in our commonwealth. The court's ruling was far-reaching and lacked a coherent justification, suggesting that it may set a precedent for rejecting any form of educational freedom as unconstitutional.
For years, the Bluegrass Institute has been a champion of increased educational opportunities for students, advocating for policies such as scholarship tax credits, education savings accounts, charter schools and open enrollment. Despite this setback, we remain committed to ensuring that every student in Kentucky has access to the quality education they deserve.
To this end, our school choice coalition has come together to determine that the only way to win the battle for school choice is to go all in. HB 174, filed yesterday by Rep. Josh Calloway, R-Irvington, is a testament to this commitment. The bill proposes a constitutional amendment that, if passed, would break down the barriers erected by the teachers’ union and end their monopoly on Kentucky's education system.
The proposed amendment, which would be put to a vote in 2024 if it successfully passes through both legislative chambers during the current session, reads as follows:
The General Assembly may provide for the educational costs of students outside of the system of common schools. Sections 183, 184, 186, and 189 of this Constitution shall not prevent any provision for educational costs of students outside of the system of common schools, nor require a referendum for any such provision for educational costs so long as no funds are used from the common school fund.
The proposed amendment holds the potential to transform the education landscape in Kentucky. By directing state support towards students, rather than struggling institutions, it offers an opportunity to level the playing field and provide lower and middle-income families with the same educational opportunities that have long been the preserve of the wealthy.
The experience of other states that have embraced school choice demonstrates the positive impact it can have on education. Providing families with a wider range of options empowers them to choose the best educational fit for their children, leading to improved academic outcomes and greater opportunities for success.
Passing this amendment gives families the chance to break free from a one-size-fits-all approach to education, providing them with the tools they need to help their children succeed. This is a pivotal moment for Kentucky. It's time to double down on educational freedom.