Congressional Democrats Target D.C. School Choice Program for Elimination

Washington (CNSNews.com) – School choice advocates are trying to save the District of Columbia voucher program, which is targeted for virtual elimination in Congress’ proposed $405-billion omnibus spending bill. The school choice supporters think the termination of the D.C. program could have national significance.

“It would happen after the 2010 school year, and 1,715 kids would be affected if the program is killed,” said Virginia Walden Ford, executive director of D.C. Parents for School Choice, who spoke to a group of bloggers at the Heritage Foundation on Tuesday. “If they kill the D.C. Choice program, it will affect school choice programs all over the country.

The omnibus bill is to be voted on in the House of Representatives on Wednesday. If passed in its current form, it would prohibit any new students from receiving vouchers after the 2009-2010 school year, eliminating $18 million from the program.