Illogical Trend

For two hundred years the Catholic Church never asked the government for a dime to assist the education of Catholic children. In the 50s or 60s they rightly received free transportation of children to its schools, which was little to ask in light of the thousands of children who were not burdening the public schools. It even would have been just to grant a token tax rebate to Catholic parents for their choice. Catholic schools always abided by the state educational requirements, faithfully steering away from political controversy and conversion, and therefore should have been seen as a partner to a degree in the education of America's children. Nevertheless, the separation of church and state is as solid as the rock of Peter and caution is essential. 

Now with these excessive vouchers, opening up a can of worms in the formation of religious schools--including Islamic and the politically motivated religious right--the line between church and state is in jeopardy. If federal, state and local governments sufficiently supported public education to make it first rate, there would be no excuse for vouchers and charter schools, yet at the same time allowing a minimal tax rebate for those who choose another route.