The proposal of so-called “education savings accounts” in the governor’s budget has left a sour taste in some mouths in the education community.
Sandra Waltman is the communications director of the South Dakota Education Association, a public-school lobbying group.
“Let’s call them what they are – they’re vouchers," Waltman said. "It’s when you take taxpayer dollars, and you give them to private schools. Again, when we’re looking at a budget shortfall and needing to make tough decisions this is not a time to be starting a program like this.”
That proposal would cost state taxpayers $4 million. Governor Noem proposed it is only the beginning of the savings account proposal.
“While it might seem small, it is taking taxpayer dollars and diverting it to private schools," Waltman said. "(Public) Education is only receiving a very small increase that doesn’t even keep up with inflation.”
The governor did stress the proposal does not take anything from public schools. Her proposed budget increase for public schools is 1.25 percent.