School choice is in the balance

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) – Amendment 80 would enshrine school choice in the Colorado Constitution.

The right to school choice has existed in Colorado for decades. It allows parents to choose a school for their child, regardless of where they live.

According to supporters, adding it to the state constitution ensures that this right will not be taken away.

“The reason for this is that putting the law in Colorado’s constitution takes it out of the hands of politicians and puts it in the hands of the people,” said Kristi Burton Brown, executive vice president of Advance Colorado.

Supporters also argue that school choice allows children to develop in the environment that is best for them.

“50% of children currently attending Colorado public schools are on open enrollment, which means they cross district boundaries or do not attend their assigned neighborhood school,” Burton Brown added.

Opponents are concerned about the effects of adopting the amendment.

“We are very concerned about what impact this could potentially have on public education in Colorado if it is passed … and then they go ahead and try to get a school voucher program for private schools,” said Kevin Vick, president of the Colorado Education Association and High School social studies teacher at school.

He says public schools would pay this price if taxpayer money were spent on private schools.

“We are already struggling to provide teachers in classrooms, mental health support (and) even some basic learning needs. So any burden and money being taken out of the public school system will have a drastic impact on children’s learning,” Vick said.

However, supporters say the amendment will not shift tax dollars.

“Voters should check their Blue Book. The Blue Book is prepared by impartial fiscal analysts at the state level. The Blue Book actually states that Amendment 80 would have a fiscal impact of $0.00,” Burton Brown said.