Nebraska state senator takes issue with NSEA’s public school ad campaign

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Nebraska State Education Association is focusing on success stories with its new campaign called Public School Proud.

It highlights how public schools provide opportunities for all students.

The group says the campaign will show how public schools create a more inclusive and fair society.

“It’s important that all students and families feel included and valued in their public schools,” NSEA President Jenni Benson said.

SEE ALSO: Nebraska group focusing on successes as fights over public schools grow

But State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan criticized the campaign.

“The NSEA’s focus should be on paying teachers more so they do not have to purchase supplies out of their pocket,” she said.

Last year, Sen. Lou Ann Linehan introduced the Opportunity Scholarships Act, which would have provided tax credits for children to attend private schools.

She said school choice benefits low-income students, giving families more options for their kids’ education.

“What about the people who don’t live in the great school districts?” she said. “What about the people whose kids are being bullied? What about the people who don’t think the school they’re in is fitting their child’s disability needs? Shouldn’t those parents have choices, too? But we say no because they don’t have money?”