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I will vote NO on Constitutional Amendment 2. Public funds belong to public schools that serve the needs of every student. Amendment 2 would allow public funds to be used by unaccountable private education providers, siphoning away resources from the over 90% of Kentucky students who attend public schools. These private entities are not accountable to the same rules, standards, governance, and transparency as public schools. They are not bound by law to serve all students, are not required to accept all applicants, and can dismiss students without cause.

Here in Fayette County, it could equate to an annual loss of $52 million in funding and 380 educator jobs lost, negatively impacting our students, families, community, and workforce. As the 2nd largest employer in Fayette County, our public schools are a foundational economic driver for our community and businesses. In other states, many private schools raise tuition after voucher laws are passed – keeping them out of reach to families that couldn’t previously afford them.

Amendment 2 would also create loopholes in seven parts of Kentucky’s constitution – tearing apart the foundation of the commonwealth. Public schools are the cornerstone of our democracy and society, an investment in our future.

The biggest challenge for our district is navigating the ongoing attacks on public education. The framers of Kentucky’s constitution believed so strongly in the importance of a strong “common schools” system, that our public schools were initially the ONLY item the legislature was required to fund.

Our public education system's strength not only shapes our students' future but also impacts the quality of Kentucky’s workforce and the vitality of our communities. Investing in public education is an investment in the future success of our children, our local economy, and the well-being of our entire community.

It’s critical that we continue to operate a well-run district that demonstrates the value and impact of public education, serves all students' needs, and safeguards the integrity of our school system. By investing in student success, communication, transparency, and fiscal responsibility, we can push back against these threats and ensure that our public schools remain a cornerstone of our community and democracy.