Editor, News-Register:

The concept of “School Choice” and voucher programs is a sham that jeopardizes the integrity of our public education system.

While supporters argue that these initiatives empower parents and enhance educational outcomes, the reality tells a different story. These programs merely serve as vehicles to redirect public funds from our community schools to private and charter institutions that do not comply with the same regulations or accountability standards as public schools.

Public schools operate under strict federal and state laws to ensure equity, accessibility, and accountability. In contrast, charter and private schools function with significantly fewer regulations. Yet, they receive taxpayer dollars without being subject to the same academic standards, financial auditing, and transparency obligations as public institutions. This lack of oversight raises serious concerns about educational standards, financial management, and the proper use of public funds.

In short, the playing field is not level.

Furthermore, West Virginia tax dollars are being drawn away from local school districts and, in many instances, out of the state entirely. This redistribution of funds weakens our public education system and reduces the resources available for students who depend on them most.

The argument that school choice programs will magically uplift at-risk children is fundamentally flawed. Many of these children face challenges at home such as poverty, unstable family situations, and lack of basic necessities. Simply moving them to a different school does not address these underlying issues. Without comprehensive social support systems, these students will struggle no matter where they attend school.

Ultimately, school choice is not about enhancing education but transferring public money into private hands for profit through the influence of campaign contributions from special interest groups looking only to make a profit.

If lawmakers truly cared about improving public education, they would focus on deregulating public schools to alleviate the bureaucratic burdens obstructing innovation and flexibility.

They would also prioritize community involvement, ensuring that local school boards foster trust and effectively respond to the needs of parents and students.

Public education is the cornerstone of our democracy. We should reinforce it to benefit all children instead of undermining it with misleading voucher schemes.

It’s time to recognize school choice as a tactic to dismantle public education under the appearance of opportunity.

Adam Truex

Glen Dale