The controversy surrounding school vouchers in North Carolina has sparked concerns about discrimination in private schools. A recent report titled “NC School Vouchers: Using Tax Dollars to Discriminate Against Students and Families” sheds light on the issue, revealing that private schools have the discretion to choose which students they admit.
Public school advocates, led by Heather Koons from Public Schools First NC, are calling for stronger protections against discrimination based on religion, disability, academic performance, and LGBTQ+ identity. The report highlights instances where private schools explicitly stated that they do not accept students from non-Christian denominations, Muslim faith, Jewish families, or Latter-day Saints.
While private schools in North Carolina are required to follow the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, ethnicity, or national origin, they are not obligated to adhere to other federal non-discrimination laws. This loophole allows them to reject students with disabilities or those who do not conform to the school’s lifestyle rules.
Koons emphasized the need for revisions to discrimination policies for schools receiving vouchers to ensure equal opportunity for all students. The report also suggests halting funding for private schools that violate federal anti-discrimination laws and redirecting state funding towards fully supporting public schools.
With North Carolina ranking 48th in school funding, the debate over school vouchers and discrimination in private schools has brought to light the need for accountability and transparency in education funding and admissions policies. Public Schools First NC is advocating for changes to ensure fair treatment and equal access to education for all students.