"There is a big tuition increase which right now we could do it but she's
going to be there in two more years so we may have to go to another private
school which is a little cheaper.
http://www.scgovernor.com/interior.asp?SiteContentId=6&pressid=75&NavId=54&ParentId=0
http://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/
http://www.scpolicycouncil.com/index.asp?CONTENT=lateststudies
http://www.scsba.org/
Billy Joe O'Neal is also a supporter of the Governor's "Put Parents In Charge Act. It would give tax credits to families who choose home school or private schools.
O'Neal says, "It would help a lot it would take a lot of strain off our family financially...by husband is self-employed so...we just don't know about money."
State Senator Kent Williams of Marion County disagrees with the Governor's plan. He says parents are already in charge. Williams says, "All it will do is take more money out of public education. Everybody is aware that public education is under funded especially in a rural districts such as what I represent."
Two recent studies about the legislation say different things. One study says public schools would be better off financially with the "Put Parents In Charge Legislation. That study was paid for by the South Carolina Policy Council.
The other, which is paid for by the State School Boards Association, says public schools would suffer. It's a battle in the State Legislature and your choice would depend on which study you believe.
Senator Kent Williams believes the state needs to find a better funding mechanism for public education.
But as for Billy Joe O'Neal she's made her decision, "Well, financially it's a burden, it's a sacrifice but it's something we're willing to do...just for the well being of our children."