Education reforms put students first Last week Marion Superior Judge Michael Keele denied a request for a preliminary injunction to stop the state's school scholarship program; a win for Hoosier students and the future of our education system. Last session, the Indiana General Assembly passed into law a new scholarship program that allows low to middle income families to choose the best education option for their child. The ruling supported the legislature's view that the school scholarships are not unconstitutional. I applaud Judge Keele's judgment to avoid an unnecessary disruption to the school year which is already underway. Additionally, I am confident that the school scholarship program and the other education reforms enacted this session will strengthen Indiana's education system now and in the future. I supported the scholarship program last session, and I will continue to support legislation that will enhance our children's future. House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1003 established the largest and most comprehensive student scholarship program in the nation. The state's scholarship program provides hope to families trapped in a failing school or a school not meeting their child's needs by giving them the financial means to receive an education elsewhere. A child's education shouldn't be stifled by what block they live on or the depth of their family's pockets, and this law serves to dispel that notion by providing quality options for all students. To be eligible for the scholarships, a student must first have been in the public school system, excluding kindergarten, for at least two semesters. Additionally, a family of four with an annual income of $41,000 or less can receive up to 90 percent of the state tuition support amount per student of the school corporation where the family lives, while a family of four earning between $41,000 and $62,000 can receive up to 50 percent in state tuition support per student of the school corporation where the family lives. For grades first through eighth, the tuition support is capped at $4,500. Additional restrictions on the program include a program cap at 7,500 students statewide for this school year and 15,000 students next year. There isn't a cap after year two. The constraints placed on this law are necessary and guarantee that the Hoosier families benefitting are of a limited means. Promoting school choice in our education system should not be taboo, but rather a way to raise all ships; every family should be able to choose the most suitable school environment. With great pride, I can say that Indiana is a national leader in promoting equal opportunities for all students. The education reforms taking place in our state are historic and will provide young Hoosiers with a better future. We are leading the charge on behalf of all students to ensure the best education is not only taking place in the United States, but right here in Indiana. State Representative Randy Frye -30- |
