EDITOR:
A packed house gathering took place at the Rolling Hills Library community space in St Joseph. The Sept. 27 panel expressed adamant concern for the “havoc” Christian nationalism is having on the Missouri public school system. Following Missouri legislative action, more public tax money goes for the “educationally deprived” to attend private schools. (A very broad interpretation could be applied—like “students deprived of Christian moral education.”)
Pro and con arguments stand. The allocation uses around 1% of the state’s education budget for these alternative situations. However, the 2023 Missouri “School Choice Legislation” has a “new tax credit” program that assists alternate schools with tuition, transport, etc. The so-called MO-scholarship voucher system feeds into six foundations. There is a Smithville Republican legislator who coordinates the Herzog Tomorrow Foundation; it alone receives 600 vouchers (each worth up to $6,375.00) Conflict of interest?
And more questionable, why is Gov. Mike Parson and his Missouri legislators allowing six foundations to collect, manage, and distribute tax credit donations, and internally, enjoy “tax exempt management” costs?
Once again, we see the very wealthy create tax benefits for themselves under the pretension of being champions for schools. And it appears control is paramount. The Herzog Foundation hosted a “boot camp” where they gave $2000 to each of their 40 participants; that equals $80,000.00. This sounds like a coordinated effort to assure these 40 “educational leaders” will follow THEIR proposals.
Is the general public being tested? Do we believe the Missouri government should distribute public tax money to private (mostly Christian) schools, but then, limitedly interfere with their tax-free distribution methods?
One person on the panel explained “the messaging threat” of Christian Nationalism: “the government cannot meddle with the church but the church can meddle with the government.”
Three out of five of my children have gone to both public and private schools. I appreciate the “special education” assistance for one of my sons. Today, my concern is for the future. The strength of democracy and the unity of our very diverse nation are reinforced by patriotic public instruction. Though all certified schools—public and private—are required to provide courses of instructions of state/U.S. constitutions, and instruction in American history and institutions, actually various private schools emphasize what they want. Just imagine the extremes and lack of oversight.
Support public schools. These public institutions are essential. Your voice affects the stability of our nation.
--Marie Stutterheim
Weston