Vouchers and Students With Disabilities: A Policy Scan and Systematic Review of State Voucher Policies in the U.S.

• In Event: Parental Preferences and Policy Dynamics in School Choice

Abstract

For decades, researchers have investigated the impact of private school vouchers on student achievement. Yet, little is known about the impact of vouchers for students with disabilities, despite a growing number of special education-related programs. We provide a historical account of voucher development in the U.S. over 150 years. Next, we conduct a rigorous policy scan and literature review to answer two research questions: (1) To what extent do existing voucher programs include policy guidance and protections for students with disabilities; and (2) to what extent does voucher research examine achievement outcomes for students with disabilities. Findings indicate a lack of protections for students with disabilities and a shockingly limited amount of research in this area.

Authors

• David E. DeMatthews, University of Texas at Austin

• Torri Danny Hart, University of Texas at Austin

• David S. Knight, University of Washington