Politicians only have the stamina to fight for their pet projects as they seem directly tied to their egos.

After 21 Republicans voted against school vouchers, leading to an 84-63 failure, Governor Gregg Abbott spent the majority of 2024 campaigning for Republicans who would support SB2 after 21 Republicans voted against vouchers.

Almost single-mindedly, Abbott has pursued instating school vouchers, despite dissent from public schools, and a large percentage of private and home school families.

Though Abbott tries to put a spin on his motives by stating that he will fully fund public schools, it has been more of a hostage situation where available funds have been sequestered until he gets what he wants.

It is difficult to see the benefits of a program that will value home and private school children at $10,000 each, while public school children only generate $6,500 for their institution.

With private schools able to expel students because of behavior, failures, or even special needs of students, the scales are tipped toward false statistics and achievement.

Private schools are also not required to provide transportation for students, further ostracizing families who need assistance with getting their children to school.

Public schools lose millions of dollars each year since funds are directly tied to student attendance. Public institutions are punished for factors outside of their control while the same requirements will not be mandated for private schools.

Access to private schools in low-income and rural areas is also limited, further creating a divide between the haves and have-nots.

Public education is the great equalizer. If funds are poured into public education, equity can be obtained. Students from all walks of life can have access to a quality education.

Education should not be political. Education should be student-centered.

—The Norseman Staff