School choice is at stake

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) – Amendment 80 would enshrine school choice in the Colorado Constitution.

The right to school choice has existed in Colorado for decades. This allows parents to choose a school for their child, regardless of where they live.

Supporters say enforcing it in the state constitution ensures the right is not taken away.

“The reason to do this is because when a right is written into the Colorado Constitution, it takes it out of the hands of politicians and puts it into the hands of the people,” said Kristi Burton Brown, Executive Vice President of Advance Colorado . .

Advocates also say school choice allows children to thrive in the best environment for them.

“Today, 50% of Colorado public school children use open enrollment, meaning they cross district lines or do not attend their assigned neighborhood school,” Burton Brown added.

Opponents are concerned about the consequences of the amendment if it is adopted.

“We’re quite concerned about what this could potentially do to public education in Colorado if it passes … and then they move on to trying to get a voucher program for private schools,” said Kevin Vick, president of the Colorado Education Association and college. social studies teacher at school.

He says public schools would pay the price if tax dollars were allocated to private schools.

“We already struggle to pay teachers in classrooms, mental health services (and) even some of the more basics of learning. So any push, any flow of money out of the public school system would have a drastic effect on children’s learning,” Vick said.

But advocates say the amendment would not move taxpayer money.

“Voters should check their Blue Book. The Blue Book was prepared by nonpartisan state budget analysts. The Blue Book actually says that Amendment 80 would have a budget impact of $0.00,” said Burton Brown.