OWENSBORO, Ky. (WEVV) —As Kentucky voters prepare to head to the polls on November 5th, one of the key issues on the ballot will be Amendment 2.
Amendment 2 asks voters if they want to change Kentucky’s constitution to allow public state funding for private education.
This would allow programs like school vouchers, which are state funds families can use to pay tuition at private schools that accept them.
And on Election Day, Kentucky voters will encounter this choice on ballots that look like these.
Supporters of the amendment argue that it would give Kentucky families more options, allowing them to choose schools that best fit their children’s individual educational needs, especially those in low income families.
44News spoke with the Superintendent of the Diocese of Owensboro, David Kessler, on why he is voting yes on the amendment.
“Every kid deserves an opportunity to go to a school that fits them the best. Whether it’s public school, private school, or homeschooled. Kids deserve to have where they’re gonna fit in or where they feel most comfortable with or where they’re gonna be successful,” Kessler expressed.
But critics of the measure have a different perspective. At tonight’s public school information meeting some members expressed that diverting state funds to private schools could drain resources from Kentucky’s public school system.
44News heard from Board Chair of the Daviess County Public Schools, James Morgan, on why he will vote no on the amendment.
“There are several sections in there that will change in the constitution. It is important that everyone understands those. 90% of the children in Kentucky attend public schools. Every county does not have private schools, a lot of those are rural communities. A lot of rural communities will be hurting if funds are diverted to private schools,” Morgan stated.
The debate over Amendment 2 highlights a broader national conversation about school choice and the role of public funding in education.
While it is unknown now, the amount of money per voucher, and which students would be eligible, would be determined by lawmakers if the amendment is approved.
On November 5th, Kentucky voters will have the final say on whether or not the state’s constitution will change to allow public dollars to fund private education.