It looks like there’s going to be a significant development tonight regarding online private school tax cuts for conservatives. The Oklahoma Tax Commission has denied the application from the American Virtual Academy. This decision means that families associated with the school won’t be able to use the chosen tax credit. According to a statement from the OTC, the academy doesn’t qualify because it’s not physically based in Oklahoma, which is one of the eligibility requirements. Ryan Walters, the state principal, has been a staunch advocate for this academy, believing it provides essential educational alternatives for Oklahomans that parents have expressed a desire for.
The Oklahoma Tax Commission’s release indicates that the American Virtual Academy, which operates out of Arizona, isn’t an approved participating school for the parent-selected tax credit. The requirements stipulate that a school must be located in Oklahoma and accredited by the state’s education board or another recognized body. If I recall correctly, they mentioned that eligible schools must provide proof of employment for their staff, which can include ID badges or letters from employers. It seems they are keen to promote these virtual schools as a way to offer parents alternatives to what they perceive as political indoctrination in the classroom. A lot of parents have spoken up about wanting their kids to have what they consider a more patriotic education.
Walters has often highlighted his role in fostering public leadership, asserting that he’s here to support various educational choices for families—public, private, charter, and homeschooling. It’s interesting, though, because some lawmakers are starting to question why he’s so involved in these private educational options. Representative Melissa Provenzano pointed out that while the school seems to operate privately, it’s a bit puzzling why the state’s public education chief would focus on online schools of this nature.
