North Carolina Parents Call on Legislators for Increased Funding for Voucher Waitlists

Over 55,000 students await their turn for Opportunity Scholarships in North Carolina, the state’s private school voucher program.

On Wednesday, parents united to push for the passing of House Bill 823. This bill, already approved by the Senate, seeks to allocate $248 million nonrecurring for the upcoming academic year and $215.5 million recurring for scholarships in the 2025-26 school year.

“Frustrated parents witnessed the legislature’s departure on July 4 without resolving this issue. Their impassioned response was, ‘We will not stand idly by,’” remarked Rachel Brady, a rally organizer.

As the House and Senate adjourned without finalizing a budget for the year, disagreements persist, particularly concerning investments in expanding both vouchers and public schools.

“Members are concerned about ensuring a comprehensive approach to education discussions, which must encompass traditional schools too,” noted House Speaker Tim Moore, as reported.

Governor Roy Cooper has been advocating for increased support for public schools, urging leaders and communities to invest in education. In contrast to other states with diverse political leanings, bipartisan agreements have led to investments benefiting both public and private schools. Concerns have arisen among conservative leaders regarding affluent individuals qualifying for vouchers and the uneven distribution of funds favoring urban areas.

During a Senate committee’s deliberation and eventual passing of the bill, legislators analyzed the impact in rural counties. Recent data reveals that 11 rural counties in North Carolina lack private schools, in contrast to 96 in Mecklenburg County and 91 in Wake County.

Parents’ Plea for Swift Action on Waitlists

Parents participating in the rally delivered uniform letters to Senate Pro Tempore Phil Berger and House Speaker Tim Moore expressing their dissatisfaction.

“The Opportunity Scholarship provided invaluable assistance by enabling access to exceptional educational opportunities for our children,” the letters emphasized.

“We implore immediate action to clear the backlog of 55,000 students eager for educational choices. Given that the school year has commenced for some and tuition obligations loom, we urge retroactive funding,” the letter continued.

“Families, grappling with escalating inflation rates, are forced to make critical choices even at the grocery store. This economic strain directly impacts those in dire need,” asserted rally organizer Brady.

Shareen Thompson, a parent awaiting scholarship allocation, remarked, “Upon learning that full funding was not secured for families statewide, we felt disheartened. Every household in North Carolina, without exception, deserves the autonomy to select the educational placement for their children.”

Mary Ellen Merry, another vocal parent at the rally, highlighted the advantage of sending her daughter to an alternative school while she herself works in a public school. She emphasized the significance of choice for all families.

“While our government financially endorses public schools, parents contribute to the system and should retain the privilege to allocate a portion of their resources accordingly,” Merry opined.

Moore noted, “This demonstrates two key points: the remarkable level of support and interest, which I welcome, and a resolute dedication from our communities.”

Regarding school commencement, Moore pondered, “The critical aspect now is finding the equilibrium between fulfilling our priorities and expediting parental processes as the academic year fast approaches.”

Addressing concerned parents, Berger advised them to sway their House representatives.

“We forwarded a comprehensive bill back in May aiming solely at clearing the waitlists, accelerating funds, and more. A single favorable vote is all that is required,” Berger underscored.

The legislature reconvened briefly this week and shall continue deliberations for the remainder of the year. Their session plan is accessible here.