Public cash flowing to private schools

Should public funds be given to private schools? If you thought this was a question, you are mistaken. Apparently, the legislature decided the debate was over.

Like so much in Illinois politics, our elected officials don't care what we think, just that we open our wallets and let them in on demand.

The debate was that because private schools, which are not required to answer to the public regarding their operation, should not receive public funds.

Private schools are funded by parishioners of the churches and patrons of the schools, often for religious and/or personal reasons.

However, for the greater good of the community and nation, those who choose and/or can afford private schools are still required to pay to support education for the public. Apparently, this has changed in Illinois without referendum or public input.

There have been credits allotted for people who drive their children to private schools. There have been government mandates forced on private schools. In a nut shell, the debate is over and the lines are smeared.

Springfield and Michael Madigan in particular, have caved into Catholic lobbyists and secured $75 million dollars in grants. This money will be deducted from the funds earmarked for public schools and will be redirected to private schools.

And they say that Springfield doesn't get anything done.

Gail Talbot

Huntley