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The School Voucher Illusion: Exposing the Pretense of Equity

Fri, April 14, 2:50 to 4:20pm CDT (2:50 to 4:20pm CDT), Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, Floor: Lobby - Level 3, Gold Coast

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This symposium explores vital equity questions posed by changing political and legal landscapes for private-school voucher policies in the U.S. These policies are multiplying and expanding, with the Supreme Court paving the way. Vouchers were sold as increasing the availability of high-quality educational opportunities. But elements such as means-testing were removed or reduced as the policies expanded. Moreover, when students move from public schools to publicly subsidized private schools, they relinquish legal protections. In these ways, equity promises served as a façade for funding relatively advantaged families, many of whom already attended—or would attend—private schools without subsidies. This session considers these issues via six public-facing opinion essays to prompt dialogue about expanded voucher policies’ impact on equity.

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