While other states have been rapidly expanding education choice, Idaho, painfully, will again likely do nothing this year. But it’s not for lack of trying. Rep. Ron Nate, R-Rexburg, has the boldest idea of them all, but his bill is being denied a hearing. Nate has proposed an amendment to the Idaho State Constitution that would allow education funds to follow students to the school or education opportunity of their choice, based on a student’s unique learning needs. In some cases, that might be an innovative nonpublic school. Idaho’s constitution, through what’s known as the Blaine Amendment, makes that impossible and could put some existing funding now used by students in jeopardy. The measure has 37 sponsors/Wayne Hoffman, Idaho Freedom Foundation. More here.

Question: I support school choice. In fact, each of my children attended a church school during their early years. My wife and I paid for that. We were happy to do so. It was our choice. I don't support further weakening of the public education system in Idaho by providing public funding for church schools, however. Thoughts?