As a pastor serving a vibrant community in Summit, Miss., I feel compelled to address an issue close to my heart and vital to our state’s future: the funding of public schools. My perspective is rooted in faith, community service and a commitment to the well-being of all our children.
Recent enrollment data from the Mississippi Department of Education indicates that 90% of our state’s students are educated in public schools. This statistic isn’t just a number; it represents the future of Mississippi, the young minds that will shape our community and our world. Their education, I firmly believe, is not just a necessity but a sacred duty, a sense I believe we share as a state.
The foundation of our stance on this issue can be found in the Mississippi Constitution itself. Article 8, Section 208 clearly stipulates that public funds are not to be used for the support of private schools. This constitutional directive is not just a legal mandate; it is a moral compass guiding us towards equitable education for all children, regardless of their background.
‘Give Every Child A Fair Chance To Succeed’
Let me be clear: I have nothing against private schools. They play an essential role in our educational ecosystem, offering diverse choices for parents and students. Indeed, parents should have the freedom to choose the best educational path for their children, including private education. However, this choice should not come at the cost of public education.
Redirecting public funds to private-school tuition undermines the very essence of our public-education system—a system that is meant to be universally accessible, equitable and a leveling field for all children, regardless of their socio-economic status. Our public schools are more than just institutions; they are diverse, vibrant and inclusive communities. Public schools are where our children learn not just academics, but life lessons in citizenship, community and co-existence.
Investing in public education is investing in the future of Mississippi. It is about giving every child a fair chance to succeed, to discover their potential, and to contribute to our society. I urge our state leaders, policymakers and all stakeholders to prioritize the funding of public schools. Let us honor our constitutional commitment and moral obligation to educate all children in a fair and equitable manner.
This MFP Voices essay does not necessarily represent the views of the Mississippi Free Press, its staff or board members. To submit an opinion for the MFP Voices section, send up to 1,200 words and sources fact-checking the included information to azia@mississippifreepress.org. We welcome a wide variety of viewpoints.
