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I hope to clarify and solidify my position on the issue of parent/student school choice through my support of Education Savings Accounts (ESA), or as some prefer to call it, “a voucher program” and for those who can be even harsher in their contact with me, a “voucher scheme.” Some comments have surprised me a bit, but I understand the passion. For those contacting me expressing your support for parent and student education choice – thank you.

For the record, our daughter graduated from public school, as did my wife and I. My background with local public education includes being a founding member of the Independence Area Dollars for Scholars in 2003 and serving as the initial treasurer. I continue serving on the Investment Review committee today. I also served as an active community supporter for the fundraising, design, and development of the Independence High School during the first three attempts to pass the bond referendum going back to 2003. After what I remember to be six votes, the community voted in favor of the new high school in Independence. There was a lot of community passion expressed during those days. Ultimately, parents are responsible for their children’s education and the school buildings they attended.

To further the point, private colleges in Iowa are eligible for public dollars through the Iowa Tuition Tax Grant program where Iowa students and their families receive tax advantage towards their tuition. This program is good for Iowa students and their families and the same is true for K-12 and ESA programs.

Author: Craig Johnson

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