Letter: In defense of NH public schools
Published: 01-15-2025 11:05 AM |
I strongly oppose HB115, which removes the income cap for Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs) and allows their unchecked expansion, undermining New Hampshire’s top-ranked public schools.
NH EFAs lack data proving their educational success, and in states like Indiana, Louisiana and Ohio, voucher programs have led to academic setbacks. EFAs also lack transparency, funding unregulated private schools and homeschooling with no way to track how taxpayer dollars are spent.
Passing HB115 is estimated to cost New Hampshire taxpayers over $100 million drawn from the Education Trust Fund, which is intended to support public schools. HB115 also removes income limits, allowing wealthier families to benefit while leaving low-income families behind. EFAs cover more than tuition, including questionable expenses like CrossFit memberships and unvetted curricula, further complicating oversight.
Public education is a shared resource, and diverting public funds to private interests is irresponsible. I urge lawmakers to reject HB115 and invest in strengthening public schools.
A public hearing on HB115 will be held this Thursday, Jan. 16, at 1 p.m. in room 205 of the Legislative Office Building. You can also submit your opposition remotely via the House of Representatives Remote Testimony Page. Now is the time to act and protect our public schools.
Kathleen Malsbenden
Newmarket
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