By State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond)
Indiana Senate Republicans have long recognized the importance of parents having choice when it comes to where they educate their children, whether that means at home, private school or public school. That is why in 2021 and 2023 I supported a state budget that made the Indiana Choice Scholarship program accessible to more Hoosier families. The Choice Scholarship provides a scholarship to offset tuition costs at participating non-public schools.
After the updates, around 25,000 more students likely became eligible for the program.
I am glad that the Choice Scholarship has given families, which in the last few years have dealt with COVID-19, lockdowns, online learning and other pandemic-related issues, the opportunity to find educational options that best fit their needs.
The 2022-2023 state budget also allocated an additional $1.9 billion investment in K-12 education, while the 2024-2025 state budget allocated an additional $2.9 billion investment in K-12 education as a whole, amounting to a total of 47% of our budget.
As we have given more families the opportunity to use their tax dollars to choose how they educate their child, we have also increased funding for all schools. I look forward to continuing to fight for parental rights and a strong educational system.
Constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns they may have by filling out a "Contact Me" form on the IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Raatz website or by phone at 800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) represents Senate District 27, which includes
Henry, Union and Wayne counties, and portions of Franklin County.
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