The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce opposes the school voucher proposal on the November ballot. The constitutional amendment would remove the prohibition against indirect as well as direct payment to private and religious schools and set up Opportunity Scholarships that would go to schools of choice. By giving the vouchers to the parents the aid would be indirect.

The Chamber encourages continuous improvement in the public school system and recognizes that some school districts in the state are not meeting the needs of the community. The public school system affects business by directly impacting the quality of the workforce. In addition, business taxes are a major part of the funding for schools.

The amendment has been proposed as a method of increasing competition in the public schools, thereby improving them. Initially, vouchers would be offered in approximately 30 districts where the graduation rate is less than 66.67%. While this would affect a small number of districts to begin with, it would be very easy in the future have it placed on the ballot in any school district. Parents would have a choice of schools and would receive approximately $3600 toward tuition at a private or religious school. However, these schools would not be required to admit any student that applied.

The amendment would have a significant impact financially. The State Legislature would establish the details of the program, requiring the expense of a new bureaucracy. In addition, every parochial school in a qualifying district would be eligible for vouchers immediately. Also, the change to the state constitution may not meet the federal requirements of the separation of church and state. Vouchers have been found unconstitutional in some cases across the country already.

Ann Arbor benefits from an excellent school program, but there are districts in the state that need major improvement. The public schools need to be strengthened, not weakened. Known methods such as reduced class size, increased parental involvement, technology and staff development should be encouraged rather than taking away the resources needed for improvement. The public school system is designed to educate everyone and to develop an educated workforce. Chamber businesses need a strong workforce to succeed and grow in the new economy.

The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce is a 1,400 member organization located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The members provide leadership in the support of commerce through business advocacy and education. The vision of the Chamber is to be an organization that will effect positive change to ensure a sustainable economic, social, and natural environment for current and future generations. For further information, contact the Chamber at 734-663-4433 or visit the web site at www.annarborchamber.org.

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