Lexington, Ky. — Students gathered in Triangle Park on Sunday to express their concerns regarding Amendment 2, a proposed measure that could significantly reshape funding for public and private schools across Kentucky. The event was part of a tour conducted by the Kentucky Students Voice Team, which aimed to amplify student perspectives ahead of the upcoming election.
The proposed amendment focuses on whether public funds should be allocated to private education or solely retained for public schools. Fayette County student Peter Jefferson emphasized the deep impact this decision could have on students: “We understand acutely how it would impact us. Because we spend so much time in our schools.”
Attendees, including students from various counties, voiced their opinions on how the amendment might affect educational opportunities. Ivy Litton, a high school student from Rowan County, highlighted personal experiences that could be jeopardized if the amendment passes, saying, “Those are the programs that are going to be defunded. I would worry for younger students coming in to high schools having those same opportunities or any opportunities at all.”
The potential economic fallout from Amendment 2 is also considerable. The Kentucky Center for Economic Policy has projected that counties could experience significant financial loss. For instance, Rowan County stands to lose approximately $6.3 million, translating to a loss of around 89 jobs in the education sector alone. Litton stressed the importance of public schools in rural areas, stating, “Public schools are important. They are an absolute lifeline for people in rural parts of Kentucky and more urban parts of Kentucky as well.”
Participants at the Triangle Park event, composed of both past and current students, reiterated the significance of the vote, stating, “They are voting on our experience.” Jefferson remarked that the election decision carries weight beyond mere numbers; it critically influences their educational journeys and prospects.
The conversation around Amendment 2 is expected to escalate as election day approaches, with students adamant that their voices need to be heard in the decision-making process that will affect their educational futures for years to come.
