Parents and private school administrators gathered in Raleigh on Wednesday to demand full funding for the 55,000 students on the Opportunity Scholarship waitlist. Organized by Rachel Brady, a mother of four, the rally aimed to draw attention to the frustration of families that have been waiting for action from the legislature. Caroline Cox stressed the urgency of the situation, calling on House members to fulfill their promise to complete the waitlist.
Despite the Senate approving a bill to fully fund the waitlist, the House did not take action, linking voucher funding to raises for public school teachers and state employees. The budget impasse left about 2,015 students on the Education Savings Account waitlist in limbo as well.
Opportunity Scholarships allow families to choose a private school education for their children, with values ranging from $3,360 to $7,468 annually. The high demand for scholarships, with 72,000 applications received in February, highlights the importance of resolving the funding issue.
Jason Phibbs of Heritage Classical Academy in Stanly County expressed disappointment in lawmakers for breaking their promise to North Carolina families. The lack of funding has impacted student enrollment at the school, with 85% of applicants being denied scholarships this year.
The rally coincided with House legislators’ return to Raleigh, but no action was taken on the waitlist issue. With several more legislative sessions scheduled, families and schools affected by the funding dilemma hope for a resolution to provide educational opportunities for all students.
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