I know that school vouchers are a controversial topic. I may be hated for my opinion, but I feel that school vouchers are a good idea, especially in areas with low performing schools. I do realize that the vouchers will wreak havoc on these low-performing schools, and that some may close if enough students leave. I also am aware that the teachers' unions oppose vouchers, because they are a threat to the public school systems in general. However, I feel that the needs of the students are the highest priority. If a charter school, or a magnet school, or even a private school can educate these children better, I think the schools should receive the tax dollars. I realize that many people will "have a problem with" this stance - private schools receiving the taxpayer's money.

I have heard that minority parents like the voucher concept, despite this being a topic that is disfavored by many political liberals. I think that is very interesting....

Still, good teachers should not feel threatened, because if one school shuts down, they should be able to find a job at the schools that are growing!

What does everyone else think?

I think vouchers will hurt small schools. In fact it is kind of startling. HOwever, I can not deny that I will move to an area with a good education in an attmpt to allow my future children to receive the best possible education. It sucks, but I want what is best for my family first.

I think vouchers would end up hurting the children from the lowest economic class and most challenging home situations. I've also heard that the poor children would not be able to use the vouchers to attend a private school because the voucher would not cover all the tuition. The poor child would not be able to pay the rest of the tuition, so the vouchers would mainly benefit the more wealthy child who could afford to pay the rest of the tuition.

Joyce - I have really enjoyed your questions.

To me, all vouchers do is give families more freedom in making their educational decision. If individually, we would all like that freedom (I would hope that is the case) then how can it be bad for "the system?â€