ZIP codes matter in counties without private schools

The strength of public schools in America is that they accept any students in their districts. Our Founders believed that public education was essential to democracy by allowing all citizens to understand social and political issues and protect their freedoms and rights. A public education created a “more level playing field.” No stratified society decided one’s education.

In Iowa today, it seems we are going backward. Choices between public and private education aren’t available in 41 Iowa counties. Polk, Dubuque, Lynn, Sioux, Scott, Woodbury, Black Hawk, Johnson, Carroll, and Plymouth counties will receive $177.4 million of the estimated $341 million taxpayer dollars for private schools in the 2026-27 school year. ZIP codes do matter.

Of all the Iowa public school districts, 60% of those have 10 or fewer in-district students receiving private school vouchers. No vouchers were received in 20% of the districts.

Gov. Reynolds stated that “every child regardless of ZIP code or income will have access to the school best suited to their needs.”

But there are a few hiccups. By year 3, there will be no limits on who can apply for the vouchers. Tax dollars can go to fund private education for children of the richest Iowans.

Private schools are given autonomy according to Sen. Wills, “ … that they may be able to function as they always have and as their business model allows.” There are no restrictions on future tuition increases.

Is this the Republicans’ best answer to longtime underfunded public education?

Karen Carlton

Waukon