CAP Releases Framework for Accountability for Private Schools Receiving Vouchers
The Center for American Progress (CAP) has released a report advocating for an accountability framework to ensure proper oversight of private schools that accept vouchers.
While public schools must adhere to the accountability regulations of the Every Student Succeeds Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), among others, these regulations only apply to private schools that voluntarily participate in certain federal programs. As voucher programs grow, the report emphasizes that accountability is crucial for student success and the viability of these programs.
The CAP report suggests six key accountability indicators for private schools receiving vouchers:
- attendance, cost, and financial need, including admission data for children with disabilities
- academic achievement
- student growth and closing the opportunity gap, including disparities for low-income students and students with disabilities
- school climate, safety, and student belonging
- postsecondary and career readiness
- fiscal management
Additionally, the report recommends creating a public digital dashboard to report these indicators and proposes establishing a statewide council of educators, parents, and stakeholders to agree on the appropriate measures and weighting systems.
CEC has a longstanding position against using public funds for private school vouchers because, among other reasons, private schools do not need to adhere to IDEA, parts of which the framework intends to address.