Today, we’re publishing candidates’ responses to the following question:
Kansas lawmakers in recent years have passed legislation that allows for open enrollment in public schools, as well as pushed measures that would expand a system of tax credits for families who send their children to private schools. Supporters of such moves say they give more freedom to families in making decisions about their child’s education. Opponents see them as threats that place new and unfair burdens on public schools. Where do you stand on such measures? Do you support moves like open enrollment and school vouchers? Why or why not?
Below are the answers the Post received from candidates on the issue:
District 37
Sherry Giebler (Democratic)
I strongly oppose voucher programs, which siphon off public tax dollars to fund private schools, all while bypassing the oversight and accountability that public schools must uphold. Private schools benefiting from vouchers are not held to the same rigorous standards as public institutions, where transparency, standardized testing, curriculum alignment, and teacher certification are non-negotiable. This lack of scrutiny allows private schools to operate with taxpayer money without being fully accountable to the public.
Vouchers undermine the public education system by diverting crucial resources, catering to a select few while neglecting the broader student population. In a time when we should be strengthening public schools for all children, vouchers push us in the wrong direction by privileging private interests over the common good. It’s no surprise that pro-voucher advocates are often backed by special interests and political groups that stand to profit from privatization at the expense of public education.
I am proud to stand with organizations such as Game On for Kansas Schools, KNEA, and the American Federation of Teachers, who tirelessly champion public education and fight for the right of every child to receive a quality education in a school system that is accountable to the community it serves.
Doug Shane (Republican)
Did not provide the Post with a response.
