School vouchers are a direct threat to the integrity and funding of our public education system. Voucher programs divert public dollars to private schools that are not accountable to taxpayers. Unlike public schools, private institutions can select their students and are not required to adhere to the same standards of transparency and accountability. This undermines the very foundation of equitable education that public schools strive to provide.
Our public schools educate all students, no matter who they are or where they come from. Over 85 percent of South Dakota’s students attend our public schools. These institutions are the backbone of our communities, especially in small rural areas where alternatives are limited. If we allow voucher programs to drain resources from public schools, we risk devastating these communities and the futures of the children who live there.
We need your voice now more than ever. Here are three critical actions you can take to help protect public schools:
Stay Informed: Sign up for the Lobby Line e-newsletter to receive the latest news and action alerts from Pierre. Staying informed is the first step in making a difference. Knowledge is power, and by keeping up to date with the latest developments, you can be ready to act when it matters most.
Engage Locally: Talk to your colleagues and administrators. What can you do together to make your voice heard? Perhaps your local association can host a letter-writing party or a forum. Create local activities to bring attention to this issue. We must all work together to amplify our message. When communities come together, our collective voice becomes too powerful to ignore.
Contact Your Legislators: You can send an email to them while they are in Pierre or find them at a local coffee or cracker barrel. Legislators need to hear from their constituents about the importance of fully funding public education. Personal stories and direct communication can have a significant impact on their decisions. Finally, consider attending SDEA’s Lobby Day. Your presence in Pierre will show our legislators that we are united and determined to protect our public schools.
Our public schools are a vital part of our society, providing education and opportunities to all children. They deserve our full support and the necessary resources to continue their essential work. Use your educator voice this session. We need it now more than ever.
