To the editor:

As both a parent and a Board of Education member, I understand why families want the best possible education for their children. My husband and I once believed private school was the best path for ours. But after concerns about lack of diversity, bullying and classroom experiences that did not reflect our values, we made the decision to enroll our children in our local public school — and it changed everything for the better.

Our children found support, opportunity and a true sense of community. Teachers and administrators knew them, challenged them, and cared deeply about their success. That experience is why I feel compelled to speak up as Missouri continues expanding voucher and school choice programs that divert public resources to private institutions.

Public schools are required to serve every child — regardless of disability, income, language or academic ability — while operating under strict transparency and accountability standards. Yet many private schools receiving taxpayer-supported benefits are not held to those same expectations and can selectively admit students.

Public education is not perfect, but it is a public promise: that every child deserves opportunity. If Missouri truly wants to strengthen education, we must fully support and fund the public schools serving every child, every day.

Stephanie McCreary

St. Louis County

Editor’s note: Stephanie McCreary is the vice president of the Bayless School District Board of Education.