Resolution: Public Funds For Public Education

WHEREAS,	The Hebrew Scriptures tell us about God's covenant with Abram and all his descendants, the people of Israel (Genesis 17:2). furthermore the prophets called the people of Israel to keep the covenant in justice for all the community and of the blessings of God which come to those who keep God's covenant (Jeremiah 32:40); and

WHEREAS,	We can see in the letter of Paul to the early churches the need for the whole community to care for the needs of others, (e.g. Philippians 2:4) "Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others"; and

WHEREAS,	All God's children deserve an equal opportunity for education that will equip them to live productive and fulfilling lives; and

WHEREAS,	Choice within the public school system, such as technical, magnet, or charter schools can be expanded and publicized more effectively; and

WHEREAS,	The commitment to make free public education available to every child has been the foundation of our democracy.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED	that we the Delegates of the 132nd Annual Meeting of the United Church of Christ re-affirm our long-standing position that public funds be used for public education at both the elementary and secondary levels; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED	that we oppose proposals such as vouchers, tuition tax credits, or any other plan that would advocate the expenditure of public monies for use in subsidizing private schools to which access cannot be guaranteed for all students; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED	that we urge all members to speak out and use every opportunity to make known our resolve in this matter; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED	that we invite regional justice and witness ministry teams to provide leadership and resources for use by the conference, associations, local churches, and members to facilitate this ministry in public education to our communities.