Repealing 1402 preserves Nebraska’s public education system

This November, Nebraska voters will have the opportunity to decide the fate of Legislative Bill 1402 (LB 1402), which allocates state funds to provide scholarships for students attending private schools. While the bill promises to offer families more choice in education, it’s important to weigh its broader impact on Nebraska’s public education system, which has already demonstrated strong results.

Supporters of LB 1402 argue that it empowers parents by expanding educational options, aligning with a national trend toward school choice. They claim that parents are seeking alternatives to traditional public schools, and LB 1402 meets that demand by making private education more accessible.

However, opponents caution that these voucher programs divert essential resources from public schools, which educate the vast majority of Nebraska’s children. A key concern is that public schools, already facing funding challenges, would be forced to operate with even fewer resources if state money is funneled to private institutions. The recent ACT results provide important context: Nebraska students rank near the top nationally among peer states, with public and private school students averaging an ACT score of 19.1, outperforming nearly all states where a high percentage of students are tested. This success is a testament to the effectiveness of Nebraska’s public education system, making the case for continued and robust investment in public schools.

Critics of LB 1402 also argue that while some families may benefit from the scholarships, private schools are still out of reach for many, even with financial assistance. The additional costs—like transportation and fees—create barriers for low-income families, leaving these programs less accessible to those who might benefit the most. Furthermore, public schools are open to every student, while private schools are not obligated to serve all students, including those with special needs.

The risk of setting a precedent that encourages privatization of education is another major concern. Public schools are held to strict accountability standards, ensuring transparency in how they operate and how taxpayer dollars are spent. Private institutions, on the other hand, do not face the same level of oversight. Diverting public funds to these institutions could weaken the public school system, which plays a vital role in promoting educational equity.

With Nebraska students already performing well compared to national averages, particularly given the state’s comprehensive testing policy for public school juniors, it’s hard to justify a shift that could undermine the public system. Instead of diverting resources, Nebraska should focus on supporting and strengthening public schools, which have proven their ability to prepare students for college and beyond.

Repealing LB 1402 is crucial to preserving the integrity of Nebraska’s public education system. While choice is important, it should not come at the expense of the schools that serve the majority of our children. Voters should carefully consider the long-term consequences of this bill and vote to ensure that public schools remain adequately funded and accessible to all Nebraska students. The future of our state depends on it.