Colorado’s largest teachers union is warning voters about a text message recently sent out that implies they support Amendment 80 on the upcoming general election ballot.
The text includes audio of Colorado Education Association President Kevin Vick suggesting that he is in favor of school choice. This is accompanied by a message stating that approving the amendment would protect school choice in the state.
If approved, Amendment 80 would enshrine the right to school choice in the state constitution. Supporters say it would protect the right, while opponents fear this could lead to the funding of private schools with public school dollars.
In a statement released Oct. 17, the CEA clarified their position on Amendment 80 while also denouncing the text.
“Proponents of Amendment 80 have been working to mislead voters since this campaign started, claiming this measure is about protecting school choice — which Colorado parents have had for 30 years — when it’s really about opening the door to creating a voucher system,” Vick said in the release.
Kevin Vick, president of the Colorado Education Association
“Now they are blatantly misrepresenting the position of myself and thousands of teachers across the state, who have been vocally opposing this damaging initiative that would open the door to diverting millions in funding away from the public schools that educate 95% of our kids and funnel it to private schools.”
The text is alleged to have been sent by Colorado Dawn in a campaign finance complaint filed last week for its spending on campaign materials despite not registering as an issue committee.
Weeks ago, the Colorado Springs Safe Neighborhood Coalition, which is funded by Colorado Dawn, sent out a similar text and video concerning Ballot Question 2D and Question 300 in El Paso County. The text was attributed to District 11 School Board President Parth Melpakam while the accompanying video featured Melpakam alongside D-49 Board President Lori Thompson and Academy D-20 Board President Aaron Salt.
In the weeks leading up to the election, 11 public school districts have passed respective resolutions opposing Amendment 80.
“Unfortunately, resorting to these types of tactics seems to be business as usual for Amendment 80 supporters, but it also indicates that they know voters are starting to see through this back-door attempt at a voucher system,” Vick said.
“Coloradans have rejected the creation of a voucher system time and again from the ballot box to the halls of their legislature, and I stand with Colorado parents, teachers, superintendents and schools boards from across the state in opposition to this measure.”