Statement by Sandra Feldman,
President, American Federation of Teachers,
on the Supreme Court's Ruling on School Vouchers

We disagree with today's Supreme Court ruling. Vouchers are bad education policy, and we will continue to fight efforts to introduce them into public education. Our nation's commitment to public education is longstanding, built upon the principle of open and equal access for all our children. This decision undercuts that principle and commitment.

If this decision brings new efforts to enact voucher legislation, we will fight these efforts. But we will also work with local, state and national policymakers to ensure that private schools that receive public funds are held accountable--just as public schools are.

This means these schools--just as public schools are--must be open to all students. They must comply with civil rights laws that protect against discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, gender or national origin. These schools must serve all students, including those with disabilities. These schools must meet the same standards required of public schools and report to the public about student achievement, graduation rates and teacher qualifications.

This decision will not alter the education landscape--the vast majority of children in the United States will continue to attend the public schools that embody America's democratic ideals, and we must continue the ongoing successful efforts to improve public education. Today's ruling should not derail that progress.

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