That the public schools have problems is no secret, and I approve of drastic measures to correct them. Obviously, the local school board control system isn't working. Perhaps some more centralized control is required?

But setting up a parallel system of subsidized private schools, which will inevitably favor those who can afford the price of admission while casting those who need education the most and can afford it the least to pay for it is unacceptable. In spite of all the pious protestations and token benfits for the poor, this is a back door scheme to give the middle and upper classes good, cheap schools on the backs of the taxpayer. Add to this the high correllation of private to religious schools, and their natural affiliation with conservative causes, this plan reeks to high heaven. If the plan is just to gut the public school system and rebuild it from scratch, then perhaps that is what it will take. But if that is the case, come right up, say it, and let the voters decide, don't bribe them with phony vouchers.

There is no restriction, other than personal finances, for people to educate their own children privately if they wish to. They are welcome to do so, but don't ask me to pay for it.