I “Started the Conversation” In the January issue of Northern Connection magazine, regarding
the question on taxes for alternative schooling. Charter Schools which are
independent public schools are funded by the taxes allotted for a child go with
the child from their current school district.
Which begs the question: shouldn’t the taxes allotted for a
child follow the child if he or she attends any alternative schooling?
I know in my own case, when I was being emotionally and
physically bullied, the school district could no longer guarantee my safety, so
my parents sent me to a private high school where I received a wonderful
education in a safe and wholesome environment. Unfortunately, my family had
difficulty affording the private school so any kind of tax break would have
helped.
Also, just a few months ago in November of 2013, the Pennsylvania
Senate Appropriations Committee approved an amended version of a charter school
reform bill that will allow most charters to receive payments directly from the
state rather than routing them through the local school districts and will
enable other entities other than the state and school districts, such as
universities, to authorize charter schools. (here's the amended version of the bill ).
Which begs another question: if they wanted, should a
private or parochial school be able apply for “charter” status and receive
state funded money?
What do you think? Let your voice be heard in the comment section below:
