The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) believes that:
- The strength of the American educational system is in its diversity of educational choices;
- All families should be able to choose from a broad selection of affordable educational opportunities.
Access and Affordability Initiatives
School choice is a hotly debated subject for policymakers. Independent schools can help shape initiatives by discussing access and affordability, highlighting the financial aid and diverse learning environments independent schools offer, rather than becoming embroiled in the narrower "voucher vs. tax credit" debate. Most independent schools provide financial aid for families through grants, scholarships, loans, tuition payment plans, and/or other resources. Creating and sustaining an inclusive, equitable, and just independent school community requires commitment, reflection, conscious, and deliberate action, as well as constant vigilance based on the overarching principles of inclusivity, diversity, and multiculturalism.
Considerations About Participation in an Access and Affordability Program
Independent schools should consider questions, such as those below, before agreeing to participate in an access and affordability program.
- Does the proposal encourage families to save for pre-collegiate education expenses?
- Does the initiative simplify and streamline the tax process?
- Does the program in any way jeopardize the school's operational, governance, instructional, academic, or athletic programs or structures?
- Does the program allow the independent school to control the hiring and promotion of staff?
- Does the program follow current state law without adding additional burdensome requirements?
- Can the school maintain its existing admissions policy?
- Do the benefits ensure that those families with the greatest financial need receive the greatest benefits?
- Are families with children already in private schools eligible for benefits?
- Are schools required to comply with federal, state, and local requirements that currently apply to private schools, including those relating to civil rights, nondiscrimination, background checks for employees, and student health and safety?
- Does the initiative contain a provision that eligible nonpublic school teachers and students have the option to participate in government-sponsored education programs when the goals for the programs correspond to the needs of the students?