Ronnie Abbott: Youth must be guarded from political extremists in schools

To The Daily Sun,

The Education Freedom Accounts program in New Hampshire is facing a concerted attack from left-wing extremists, particularly among local Democrats. This surge in opposition is evident through an influx of letters asserting that Republicans aim to "defund the schools" due to their advocacy for parental choice in education. A critical aspect of this opposition is the apparent disregard for basic arithmetic, as the per-child spending in a school increases when students enroll in the EFA program.

For instance, in Laconia, the current per-student spending stands at $19,129. Simple calculations reveal that when the $4,500 per student follows them to the EFA program, the school retains the remaining $14,629, resulting in an additional $8 per student in the budget. This calculation does not even consider the spend-down money the city continues to receive from the state during the initial years the child is not in the traditional school system.

Rather than delving into numerous success stories, such as a Laconia child transitioning from frequent suspensions to performing above grade level through homeschooling, the emphasis remains on a straightforward assertion. The preference lies in parents assuming control over their children's education, as opposed to ceding that authority to extremist political activists who attempt to dictate what is best for each child. The EFA program stands not only as a means of educational choice but also as a pathway to tangible improvements in the academic outcomes and well-being of students.

Every Democratic candidate currently running for governor has expressed their intention to terminate this program day one. It is crucial to bear this in mind when casting your vote. Our commitment to the children demands that we prioritize their education over the ideals propagated by these extremist political activists. Let us remain vigilant at the ballot box to safeguard the educational future of our youth.

Ronnie Abbott

Laconia