Georgia Governor signs bill to provide $6,500 for private school tuition through school vouchers

Gov. Brian Kemp has endorsed a set of education-related legislation, which includes a debated provision enabling parents of students in underperforming schools to access $6,500 in state educational funds. This aid allows families to opt for private school enrollment or home education in lieu of the public school system.

Advocates argue that broadening school vouchers will enhance academic success for students in inadequately performing schools. Critics, on the other hand, contend that these vouchers divert crucial funding from under-resourced public schools to private entities with reduced oversight.

Kemp expressed gratitude towards Cumming Republican Sen. Greg Dolezal, the bill’s sponsor, and House Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones, for their unwavering efforts over the years leading to the bill’s recent passage.

“This legislation has always been about providing every Georgia child with the education they deserve,” Kemp stated. To ensure accountability, participating schools must exhibit sound financial standing, submit student performance data, conduct authorized assessments to ensure academic quality, and meet specific enrollment criteria.

The supplementary measures mentioned by Kemp were integrated to sway hesitant House Republicans to support the legislation. The bill also entrenches temporary teacher salary increases as permanent and permits public schools to utilize state capital funds for Pre-K construction and renovations.

The program, slated to launch in the upcoming autumn semester, is restricted to students within the lowest 25% of Georgia’s school districts. Except for kindergartners, students are required to have been enrolled in a public school for at least one year to meet eligibility standards. The state’s financial commitment is limited to 1% of the total cost of the Quality Basic Education formula, amounting to over $100 million.

Despite initial reservations from some House members, Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones hinted at the Senate’s readiness to progress further.

“The recent passing of SB 233 signifies a substantial advancement in school choice, but there is more work ahead to accommodate diverse educational needs,” Jones remarked, underscoring the importance of educational freedom.

While Gov. Kemp finalized the bill amid mixed reactions, education advocates and teachers raised concerns about its implications, citing potential financial strain on public schools and inadequate coverage for private school tuition.

Elijah Brawner voiced concerns about the predominance of Christian-based private schools, potentially limiting diversity among students availing vouchers.

Notably, Tracey Nance, the 2022 Georgia Teacher of the Year, expressed apprehension over legal discrepancies and potential disparities in academics and support services for students accessing private school vouchers.