The ninth in a series, we address the eighth most common school choice myth in Iowa:
Myth Number 8: School choice programs come with “strings attached.”
Although there are a few examples of programs across the nation with “accountability” measures in place (like state testing, accreditation standards, etc.), we have yet to see overly onerous “strings” attached to any program nor do we see them creeping in as the program ages. We are hopeful that the Iowa legislature will continue this trend with an ESA that not only is void of unnecessary strings attached, but that it clearly lays out protections for religious and other private schools. We have provided the legislature and Governor’s office with language and we appreciate the Senate passing ESA language with strong protections.
The simple fact is this: we fight Democratic and Republican mandates and restrictions every year at the state Capitol. It’s extremely tempting to impose requirements on schools to “fix” the issue that is most important to the legislator and/or his/her constituent who feels it is more important than any other and that schools “have to” be a part of the solution. We are usually successful in fending off those attacks (which is what they are – attacks on our autonomy and mission) and would rather do the same work within an environment that respects the rights and role of parents to direct their child’s education.
Iowa’s school choice coalition, including IACS, is committed to not supporting a bill with requirements that negatively impact our autonomy or mission.
Interested in diving into all ten myths? You can read the full article here. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on the latest developments in our effort to ensure every child has access to the educational environment that best meets their needs.