Frequently Asked Questions
What would the amendment do?
Proposed constitutional Amendment 2 would give the legislature more flexibility to fund a variety of educational programs.
Does this amendment take money from public schools?
No. In fact, the legislature has provided a record amount of funding for kindergarten through 12-grade education. According to data provided by the Department of Education, overall funding has more than doubled since 1990, even after adjusting for inflation. In fact, according to the latest data report, the average per-pupil current expense spending a public school is $18,522. The amendment contains language that protects public education funding.
Why is this necessary?
Despite record funding, Kentucky continues to struggle with educational attainment at every level. More than half of students do not read at grade level and barely a third are proficient in math. Study after study shows that increasing educational freedom helps all students.
What do other states do?
Almost all states offer some form of educational freedom, including every single one of Kentucky’s neighboring states. When Amendment 2 passes, Kentucky will have a variety of school choice programs to study.
Why was it not included in the Kentucky Constitution when it was written?
The state’s approach to educating children was significantly different when the current Kentucky Constitution was adopted in 1891. The proposed amendment would allow the legislature to provide opportunities in education that did not exist 133 years ago.
Is this a Voucher Amendment?
No. Amendment 2 will not create any school choice program in Kentucky. However, Amendment 2 allows the Kentucky legislature to research and find the best school choice option for our state. It very well may NOT be vouchers. There are several different possibilities and ways to implement school choice.
Where will the money come from?
Since the amendment does not implement a specific School Choice option there really is no accurate way to answer that question. The important thing to recognize is that there are many options to study, and this amendment will allow a discussion. For example, funds may come from private donors who will receive a tax credit.
Do Catholic schools accept students with special needs?
The heart of the Gospel calls us to champion the inclusion of students with disabilities Catholic schools by promoting a culture of belonging. We strive to welcome, support, and value every human person no matter what. Additional funding can only help us in this worthwhile endeavor.
Do Catholic schools accept students with past discipline issues?
The Church believes in forgiveness and new beginnings. There have been many circumstances where a student may not have been thriving at one school but was given a fresh start in a new environment that turned out to be extraordinarily beneficial for that child.
Who is accepted at Catholic schools?
Any family interested in attending one of our Catholic schools is welcome to contact that school and go through the admission process. No child is turned away from the admission process.