Michelle Kenison

I oppose this bill as it will drastically cut back on the necessary funds need to support alternative education options for our children. Parents have a right to be involved and have a say in the education and formation of their children. My children have personally excelled in their academic studies, as well as behavior, since being enrolled in a private Catholic school. A couple of my children were below grade level in the public school system, as well as being enrolled in an iep and other puclic speacial ed services. There was never any progress made. Along with no positive outlook or confidence that they would ever catch up. Since, switching to their private school, immediate action was implemented and I have seen amazing results and growth in both thier reading, writing and math skills. Their behavior has greatly improved with being in a well structured environment. The funding from both Education Tax Credit (ETC) scholarships and Education Freedom Account (EFA) funds are especially necessary for children with special education needs to ensure they continue receiving the support they need to succeed, which was never given to them in the failed public school system. As well as fund roll overs from the previous year. Parents should not be penalized for spending the money prudently and saving it for upcoming expenses. If you returns the leftover funds to the state at the end of the school year. People will most likely spend it before they lose it and in the long run cost the state more money.