Program gives poor kids chance at better education

Recently I read a letter in the Daily Herald with the title: "Don't use public funds for private schools."

This writer is referring to an "Invest in Kids" program that for six years has been a beacon of hope for thousands of Illinois students and families. Children receiving Invest in Kids scholarships come from lower-income families who could not otherwise afford tuition at a Catholic or another non-public school that is the best fit for their child.

The objecting writer to this Invest in Kids program claims this is a voucher program and takes state funds away from public schools. Let the truth be told, these scholarships are for poor kids who are funded through contributions from donors who receive a tax credit for their donations on their Illinois state income tax.

This Invest in Kids program should be a non partisan issue that benefits lower income children and families to have a better life and to get a quality education. Unless our state legislators in Springfield vote to renew this Invest in Kids program on Oct. 24, thousands of poor Illinois children will have to leave the school that their families determined was their best chance for them to receive a quality education in a safe and wholesome learning environment.

If you like this idea of investing in kids and helping them get a better education and it's not taking money away from public school funding, give your local state representative or

senator a call before Oct. 24.

Larry O'Neill

Palatine