House Puts Scholarship Proposal On Back Burner

A proposal to create a scholarship program that would allow inner city children to attend private schools has been set aside in the House. It might never return for debate. Sponsor Ted Hoskins of Berkeley says his bill would provide tax credits to corporations and individuals that contribute to a $40-Million scholarship fund. Up to 10,000 students from the state’s 16 lowest performing districts could receive scholarships. Hoskins says he wants to send a message of hope to children now stuck in those poor performing districts. His bill, though, has attracted considerable criticism. Opponents contend it amounts to a back-door approach to bring a voucher system to Missouri, and would divert money away from public schools. The House has approved a handful of amendments to the bill, including one that wouldn’t allow the program to operate until the Legislature fully funds the public school funding formula.