Supe's On: Simply put, Education Savings Accounts would divert funding away from public schools

The diversion of public taxpayer funds to non-public school students and private institutions erodes public education. Governor Noem has proposed an Education Savings Account, which is simply a different term for a school voucher program, to be introduced during the 2025 legislative session with $4 million in public taxpayer dollars used to start the program with the expressed goal for further expansion and funding. The proposed school voucher program would be extremely detrimental, both short and long-term, to our South Dakota public schools.

The state budget, which provides the funding for public education, consistently faces constraints and public schools operate within the resources allocated and available. The creation of a new program that diverts public tax dollars to non-public schools will further limit the available resources to public schools and other established programs. Further, research has indicated that school voucher programs implemented throughout the United States have consistently failed to improve the academic outcomes of students and created additional state budget challenges. 

Simply put, Education Savings Accounts (vouchers) divert funding away from public schools as all the funding comes from the state’s budget. Public education plays a vital role within society, providing all children with opportunity. Investment in public education is an investment in our future. The diversion of public taxpayer funds, through Education Savings Accounts, to non-public school students and private institutions erodes public education and will negatively impact the students, staff, and families of our South Dakota Public Schools – tomorrow and in the future. 

Go Lynx!