Louisiana Voucher Program in Jeopardy Following Court Ruling

On Friday, the 19th Judicial District Court ruled the funding mechanism of Louisiana’s school choice voucher program unconstitutional, placing the academic future of nearly 5,000 students in jeopardy. Louisiana’s voucher program was launched during the 2008-09 school year and allows students from low-income families in under-performing schools to enroll in private schools of their choice.

Before this year, only students in districts designated as being in “academic crisis” were eligible. Along with other restrictions, this limited the program to only New Orleans and Jefferson Parish. Earlier this year, though, legislation lifted those restrictions expanding the program statewide. In June, the Louisiana Federation of Teachers filed suit alleging that the expansion violates state constitutional provisions.

The union leaders claim to be standing up for the state constitution; however, they are simply trying to stomp out any competition. It’s unfortunate that they are willing to do so at the expense of the children. The vouchers provide the students the opportunity to attend schools they otherwise could not afford, schools that will lead them to a brighter future. Once again the union leaders are putting themselves ahead of the students they are supposed to be educating.

The good news is that the program’s supporters will appeal the decision, suspending the ruling and allowing the program to continue for now during the appeal process.