Parents Could Get Cash For Withdrawing Special Education Student From School

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) – Parallel bills in the House and Senate would give more than $6,000 in state money to the parent of any special education student who wanted to withdraw their child from their local public school district.

Supporters say too many public school districts are doing a poor job educating special education students, and parents need options including private school or home tutoring.

Opponents, though, are wary that vouchers could weaken public school systems and be an opening wedge for a statewide voucher program.

The House and Senate education committees both passed bills supporting the plan Tuesday. Senate Bill 2325 still requires additional action by the Senate Appropriations Committee before the end of the day Tuesday, but Senate staffers say the committee will meet to consider it.