Noem Proposes $4 Million for Education Savings Accounts

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has proposed a $4 million program for Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) to enhance school choice, aiming to provide about $3,000 per student for private school tuition and alternative education. This initiative has drawn both support from school choice advocates and concern from public education representatives, who fear it may divert essential funding from public schools. Democrats in the state legislature have raised alarms about the potential impact on public school resources and the adequacy of budget increases to keep pace with inflation. Schools like Rapid City Area Schools express worries that the ESAs could lead to decreased enrollment and funding challenges. While Noem insists that public education funding will not be cut, critics argue that the state’s limited revenue streams may ultimately force prioritization away from public education. The proposal will require legislative action to move forward in the upcoming session.