“SB 1 is a bill that has gone by many names, parent choice, school choice, and now education savings accounts, but in reality, it is a voucher program to subsidize private school education for affluent families. I voted against SB 1 because it diverts money away from our underfunded public education system and puts it into a voucher program that will primarily benefit affluent families.

“Private school tuition in Houston can be as high as $30,000 a year. Private schools are not affordable to the majority of poor and middle class families in communities of color, even with this voucher program. Private schools do not have a the same requirements as public schools. Private schools have no legal requirement or obligation to enroll any student and typically do not admit students with special education needs because they are not prepared to provide those essential and vital services.

Providing a high-quality public education should always be a priority in a state as large and diverse as Texas. At times, that task may be challenging, but as leaders, we must stay committed to providing quality, affordable and sustainable public education for all Texans.”