The stakeholder tensions lying under community surfaces in two western New York (WNY) counties (Erie & Niagara) have contributed to creating a decades-long balancing act between maintaining public education systems and providing funds for religious schools. The New York State Constitution mandates free public education systems, yet it also requires that public funds not be used to aid schools of religious denominations, aside from the area of transportation. By spending over a year interviewing school administrators, teachers, surveying students and collecting demographic research, I was able to decipher what the main issues are that exist between each stakeholder in WNY education. Information about the Archdiocese of Buffalo, Lockport Public School District, labor unions and parent/student involvement and choice led me to analyze those stakeholder’s objectives and goals for the future of education. Based on my research, I was able to conclude that there is only a thin rope provided by the NYS government ,which holds public and parochial schools together. If public schools were provided with the funds diverted to parochial schools, there is a possibility that these schools could build a better source of pride for their communities. While public schools are able to offer more courses, a diverse learning environment and a greater connection to one’s community, parochial schools will continue to outperform public schools, so long as there is a socioeconomic divide. As I further my education in law school this Fall, I hope to continue studying education’s connection to the Constitution. Right now, there is no perfect solution for this balancing-act and COVID-19 is sure to create a stir within education, but I hope this study will help put a spotlight on education and its importance in developing our nation’s next generation.
Author: Nina Franco
Faculty Advisor: Prof. Bruce I. Petrie Jr., Esq., Department of Political Science
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