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“The Invest in Kids initiative is the single best program the
state has to help kids escape failing schools and get the
education they need and deserve,” Wilhour told The Center Square
of the program that grants tax credits to people who use private
dollars to fund scholarships that allow students to attend
private schools.
“It is widely supported by parents and families across the state
because it works and because real people (unlike career
politicians) actually care about kids,” he added. “It is
successful. So, of course, the political insiders profiting from
the culture of corruption don’t want it.”
Conducted over a three-day period commencing on June 26, the
poll of 800 Illinois voters found 63% supported the school
choice program, compared to 21% in opposition. With the program
paving the way for nearly 10,000 low-income Illinois students to
attend the school of their choice, researchers also point out
the program has at least 60% support from each main political
ideology, topped by independents at 67%.
Wilhour argues it makes little sense that the program is now
scheduled to sunset on Dec. 31 after lawmakers failed to extend
it as part of the state’s new budget, leaving countless students
and parents alike uncertain about what comes next.
“The purpose of our education system is to educate children,” he
added. “We need to embrace and support programs that actually
work. The teachers’ unions hate the Invest in Kids program
because they are embarrassed. The Invest in Kids program
highlights the failures of the Chicago Public Schools, which is
why they are so adamantly opposed to it. We not only need the
Invest in Kids program, but we need to institute a voucher
system.”
With thousands of other students having signed onto a waiting
list in hopes of be able to join the program, Wilhour said he is
hoping to see lawmakers soon come to their senses.
“There is still time to reinstate the Invest in Kids program,”
he said. “I will continue to fight to keep this program alive in
Illinois.”
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