Debate Intensifies Over Amendment 2 as Misinformation Surfaces in Kentucky’s School Funding Discussion

Lexington, KY – The debate surrounding Amendment 2, which would enable the legislature to allocate public school funding for school choice programs, is intensifying as misinformation circulates among families. Supporters, including the nonprofit Kentucky Students First, claim the amendment would provide “additional funds for teacher pay”, “invest more money into our public education system”, and “increase public school funding per student”. However, critics argue that such statements are misleading, as the amendment aims to alter the state Constitution to allow public funds to support students outside the public school system.

The proposed amendment seeks to change the Constitution to permit the General Assembly to provide financial support for students enrolled in private schools or alternative education systems. The official ballot measure asks voters if they support enabling the legislature to fund education costs for students in kindergarten through 12th grade beyond the public school framework. While supporters claim that increased competition could lead to higher teacher salaries, this premise is heavily contested.

Financially, Kentucky Students First has raised approximately $1.5 million to support the amendment, primarily sourced from business leaders and a dark money group. In contrast, the opposing campaign, Protect Our Schools, is backed by funding from national and local education unions. Given the high stakes and substantial public interest, it is crucial for voters to critically evaluate the facts as they consider the implications of Amendment 2 for the future of education in Kentucky.