To the Editor,
As Ohio continues to grapple with the future of its education system, it is critical that we prioritize funding for public schools rather than expanding voucher programs. Public schools are the backbone of our communities, providing quality education to the vast majority of Ohio’s children, and it is through their continued support that we can ensure a prosperous future for all.
First and foremost, public schools are accountable to the public. They must follow state standards, employ licensed teachers, and offer services to all students, including those with disabilities, English language learners, and students from disadvantaged backgrounds. In contrast, voucher programs direct public funds to private institutions that are not bound by the same rules and regulations. This creates an uneven playing field, where public schools are required to meet rigorous standards, while private schools, often with less oversight, can operate without such accountability.
Moreover, vouchers divert essential resources away from the public education system, which already faces significant challenges due to underfunding. Ohio’s public schools serve over 1.6 million students, many of whom rely on the resources, support services, and extracurricular opportunities provided by these institutions. By diverting public money into private schools, we weaken the infrastructure that supports our communities, leaving less funding for crucial programs like special education, school lunches, and after-school initiatives.
Additionally, research has consistently shown that voucher programs do not lead to better educational outcomes. A recent study in Ohio found no significant improvement in test scores for students using vouchers, while many students lost access to critical services that could have helped them thrive. Instead of fostering competition, vouchers often lead to a stratified education system, with better-funded private schools attracting students who don’t need the extra help, while public schools are left with the most challenging cases and fewer resources.
Investing in public education is an investment in Ohio’s future. Well-funded schools benefit everyone, creating a stronger, more equitable society where every child has the opportunity to succeed. Rather than expanding a program that funnels public dollars to private entities with no obligation to serve all students, Ohio should prioritize funding for public schools — schools that serve all children, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.
I urge policymakers to focus on strengthening and funding our public schools, ensuring that every student, no matter where they live, has access to a high-quality education. Our children, and our state’s future, depend on it.
Thank you,
Julie Shoemaker
Fredericktown, Ohio