Public school advocates took turns at a podium in the State Capitol on Wednesday to argue against charter schools and vouchers they say would hurt what some consider the best public school systems in the nation.
“Public education is the great equalizer of our nation and the best weapon against poverty and undoubtedly one of the greatest investments we can make in our communities," said Lincoln Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks.
The news conference — which included state senators, public school officials and teacher union representatives — was held a day before a school choice rally that last year drew hundreds to the Capitol steps.
Bills introduced in the Legislature this session would allow students in low-performing schools or districts to attend charter schools or get vouchers for private schools. Nebraska is one of seven states that doesn’t authorize charter schools and previous attempts to allow them in Nebraska have failed.
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But momentum could be shifting nationally and locally. Betsy Devos, President Trump’s pick for education secretary, is a strong proponent of charter schools, and in Nebraska, Gov. Pete Ricketts and some senators support the idea.
Organized opposition includes a national campaign by the National Education Association to oppose the confirmation of Devos.
Ann Hunter Pirtle, the executive director of the pro-public school group Stand for Schools, said Nebraska boasts one of the highest graduation rates in the country and has the seventh-highest college-going rate.
But Nebraska also ranks second-lowest in state investment in schools, which has created an over-reliance on property taxes, she said.
Speakers argued that Nebraska already has school choice, with private and public schools and option rules that allow families to enroll in different schools.
Lincoln Public Schools Superintendent Steve Joel said LPS has a career academy, focus programs and an International Baccalaureate program to serve different student needs.
“We invest in all kids," Joel said.