Written by Kayla Ritter Rickels
In the upcoming election, we’ll be faced with a critical decision about the future of education in Kentucky. Amendment 2 proposes using public funds to subsidize private education. While it may sound like a way to increase school choice, the reality is that it risks undermining the very foundation of our public school system.
As your neighbor, a proud Kentuckian, and a former public school administrator, I’ve seen firsthand the vital role public schools play in our communities. Public schools are required to serve all children, regardless of their background, ability, or family income. They are accountable to all of us—parents, taxpayers, and the state—and are held to strict standards to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed. Private schools, however, are not bound by these same requirements.
Amendment 2 would allow taxpayer-funded vouchers, education savings accounts, and scholarship tax credits to pay for private schooling. Yet only a small number of states have embraced these programs—14 states allow vouchers, 18 allow education savings accounts, and 20 permit tax credits for private school tuition(9ef454dc-b48b-474d-8429…)(20af30d5-b8c4-4a1c-a21e…). Why? Because many states recognize that taking money from public schools to fund private education weakens the public system that is designed to serve everyone.
Kentucky’s current constitution wisely prohibits this diversion of public dollars. Amendment 2 would create exceptions in seven sections of our constitution, opening the door for taxpayer dollars to be funneled to private schools that are not required to meet the same educational standards or ensure equal access for all students.
Public funds should stay where they belong—supporting public schools. Our public schools are the heart of our communities, welcoming every child through their doors and providing them with the support and education they need to thrive. If we start diverting funds away from them, we risk leaving behind the children who rely on public schools the most.
In solidarity as your neighbor, proud Kentuckian, and former public school administrator, I urge you to vote “No” on Amendment 2. Let’s protect the future of our public schools and ensure every child in Kentucky has access to a quality education supported by the public funds that belong in our classrooms. Together, we can stand up for our schools and our students.
