As taxpayers, it’s important to find ways for government to be better stewards of our money in all areas, including education. One strategy that free market visionaries have championed is the implementation of school voucher programs, which aim to reduce costs and give parents more choice while improving student achievement. Right now, voucher programs are not widespread. However, a new study on existing voucher programs tells a compelling narrative that both taxpayers and elected officials should pay attention to.
In the brand new report by the Friedman Foundation for Education Choice, analysts found that the ten voucher programs (in six states plus the District of Columbia) operating in the last 24 years have combined to save at least $1.7 billion. Can you imagine the savings if voucher programs were implemented in all 50 states?
The report, titled “The School Voucher Audit: Do Publicly Funded Private School Choice Programs Save Money?,” looks at how vouchers cost or save money, their impacts on school revenue and spending, and the added cost for states, schools, and taxpayers from shrinking private school enrollment from 1985 to 2010.
Milton Friedman’s idea for school vouchers was meant to expand freedom, improve education, and save money. From the looks of this report, these programs seem to be accomplishing all of the above. Whether you’re a parent, a student, a teacher or simply a taxpayer, this new report is worth a look.