If enacted, SB 122 will have a significant impact on the state’s education system. The bill sets a precedent for state funding to flow into an alternative scholarship program instead of solely supporting traditional public schooling. This shift could provide parents with more choices regarding their children's education, particularly for those who prefer nonpublic schooling options. However, it may also raise concerns among public school advocates about the potential for erosion of funding available for public schools.
Summary
Senate Bill 122 establishes the Empowerment Scholarship Program in Colorado, designed to help eligible students meet their educational needs by providing financial assistance for certain educational expenses. The program is administered by the Colorado Department of Education, which will contract with an entity tasked with managing the scholarship accounts. Parents of eligible students are able to apply for these accounts and funds, which can be used towards tuition, fees for nonpublic schools, home-based educational programs, tutoring, and special education services among other eligible expenses. The bill declares the program as a valid public purpose aimed at ensuring optimal educational opportunities for students based on individual needs.
Contention
The bill has generated notable points of contention, particularly regarding the allocation of state education funds. Proponents argue that the Empowerment Scholarship Program will increase educational opportunities and allow for tailored learning experiences for students with varying needs, including those with disabilities. Critics, however, express concerns that such programs could divert essential resources from public schools, leading to underfunding and compromised quality of education for students who remain in the public system. Additionally, the requirement that eligible students must withdraw from public schools to access the scholarships has raised questions about equity and access in education.
Providing for individual empowerment scholarship accounts; and establishing the Pennsylvania Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program, the Department of Education Empowerment Scholarship Fund and the State Treasurer Empowerment Scholarship Fund.