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Katrina voucher program extended

Yes, we’re happy, and no, we’re not the least bit ashamed of it. 

Put yourself in the shoes of one of these children for a minute.  Your home having been wiped out by Katrina, you’re in an entirely different home in an entirely different city.  You likely live in a cramped hotel or apartment, probably continually surrounded by a low level of mayhem. 

Then you’re expected to go to school?  Where, precisely?  The school up the road might not only have space, it may not even be standing anymore.

Even if you’re diametrically opposed to any notion of school choice, please understand that these kids–157,000 of them–were thrown into a desperate situation, one in which many of them remain.  Even Ted Kennedy, a longtime opponent of vouchers, broke down and co-sponsored the original program.  And out of the havoc of Katrina, a new opportunity for these kids has arisen.  Don’t believe me?  Ask them yourself.

So while this additional funding is good news, it’s time for the states to step up.  This program–the largest school choice program in history–is set to expire next year.  If if something isn’t done, these kids will be left stranded.  Louisiana seems to be getting in gear, but the bottom line is that if state legislatures don’t move in, these kids will be kicked out of school.  Again.