Passing a school voucher or an “education savings account” has been one of the top priorities for Governor Greg Abbott and other top Texas Republicans. The idea is fairly unpopular in Texas, especially with rural Republicans. They fear that the flood of taxpayer money to mostly urban and suburban religious private schools will ultimately impact the funding of rural public schools, which are often the lifeblood of the community.
In selling school vouchers, Abbott and supporters have relied on a handful of studies showing positive effects from other states. There are indeed several studies that indicate a voucher system may moderately benefit students. However, looking at the subject as a whole gives a bigger picture than the scant few examples used by Abbott and allies.
To view the full story, visit https://www.reformaustin.org/education/pro-school-voucher-science-is-based-on-gut-feelings/