"Incrementalism is a different strategy. It consists of seeking passage of very limited or modest voucher plans with no provisions for later expansion. Supporters of an incrementalist strategy plan to introduce at a future date new legislation that would expand the program."
"We see vouchers as a major step toward the complete privatization of schooling. In fact, after careful study, we have come to the conclusion that they are the only way to dismantle the current socialist regime."
"I proclaim publicly that I favor ending government involvement in education."
Two weeks ago we encouraged Democrats to assist with a petition drive to put the school voucher issue on the ballot. Since then we have been subjected to lectures on: the nature of “representative” government; the wishes of our Founding Fathers; accused of a “power grab”; advised not to take a stance on things we care about because of how “popular” we are in rural Utah; told it is a “waste of time, energy, and means”; and, that we should not “put the community through such a divisive and futile battle.”
Public Education advocates launch voucher referendum
In a stunning announcement, the Apostle Paul, author of several books in the New Testament, has formally endorsed the efforts of Parents for Choice in Education in fighting back Big Union efforts to destroy the future of Utah schoolchildren.
When the fiery Apostle learned of the wealthy ideologues’ plight, he granted them leave to quote on their web site any scripture they liked to bolster their followers. “What better way to battle the forces of Big Union than to quote the Holy Book. I am so pleased with their dedication to conveying the sacred word in these trying times.”
The witness continued, “I’m particularly pleased they chose the phrase in Galatians 9:6 ‘never weary in well doing.’ I’m gratified to see them include this simple message on their web site and I hope it provides a much-needed boost to those tired disciples battling Big Union and their sheep-like minions, the public school teachers of Utah.”
In response to questions of mixing public policy with church worship, the champion of righteousness responded, “Although I’ve never been a big fan of politics and religion combining forces after that whole Pharisee fiasco, I confess I was drawn in once they explained to me the nefarious deeds of Big Union and their anti-child agenda. Big Union *says* they actually like children. Their drone-like members *say* they teach because they want what’s best for their students. But I know it’s all a lie. They are actually Agrippa-like power mongers who are intent on depriving parents of their constitutional right to receive money in exchange for sending their children to a private school. What could be more reprehensible than that?”
Joseph Smith, first prophet of the Dispensation of the Fulness of Times, also lent his ringing endorsement to the group’s efforts. In a brief statement, the Prophet proclaimed “When I, through revelation, quoted the Apostle Paul in Section 64 of the Doctrine and Covenants, I could see a real boost in morale amongst the Brethren headed out to Missouri to face certain persecution. It’s heartwarming for me to see that Parents for Choice has ‘likened the scriptures’ to their own struggles against Big Union. I wish them well.”
President Hinckley could not be reached for comment.
As progressives, the moment we let any debate become about money, we have lost. We may win the argument over the money, but we've given up the real issue. Our country was founded upon three solid goals: "Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." The Revolution was not fought nor the Constitution crafted to found a capitalist empire where every value was reduced to market prices. One of the greatest sources of strife in the early days of our nation was on just that issue: How important would the making of money be in regard to all other national values? Whose vision would dominate: Hamilton's or Jefferson's? But even Hamilton would be shocked, I think, by the role of money in our society. There is little worth doing that does not have a price tag attached. For many things, this is fine: a day's work, household items, luxuries, the food we eat, rewards for doing something other people enjoy. Money is a convenient way for us to share our resources with each other. It is, however, an odious means by which to value people or judge our schools.
"If we care about education, we'll set aside the money issues. We'll focus instead on what really matters: the kids, the teachers, the curriculum, the outcomes. We'll focus on education, not a stinking budget. Jesus said, in one of his many treatises on democratic theory, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." What do we treasure, and what does that say about our hearts -- our humanity? Do we treasure the education we give our children, or do we value what it takes from our wallets?"
