‘Why don’t they just let the money follow the kids?’: Jake, Spike debate using WA public education funding for private schools

Washington’s public school revenue grew from more than $13 billion in inflation-adjusted dollars in 2012-13 to more than $21 billion in 2024-25, according to The Seattle Times. The newspaper examined that increase alongside reading and math performance that remained below pre-pandemic levels.

On “The Jake and Spike Show” on KIRO Newsradio, co-host Jake Skorheim argued for letting families use public education dollars at private schools, while co-host Spike O’Neill questioned whether that would lower tuition or help students remaining in public schools.

“Why don’t they just let the money follow the kids?” Jake said.

“If you take money out of the public school funds to pay for private schools, then you’re getting smaller class sizes, but less resources to teach,” Spike responded.

Jake proposes giving families more school options

Jake connected his proposal to concerns about class sizes and student performance.

“If the money followed the students and parents could put their kids in schools, private schools, for instance, now you’re alleviating the pressures from those schools that are overpacked with students because some of those students are going to go to the private schools,” Jake said.

He also predicted changes for families who remained in public schools.

“The students who are still deciding to stay in the public schools are going to get a better education because they’re in smaller classrooms,” Jake said. “It’s a win-win.”

Spike disputed Jake’s prediction that more students and public funding would lead private schools to lower tuition.

“It’s not going to drop tuition in private schools because they got more kids applying,” he said.

Jake pressed him on whether lower prices were possible.

“If they’re getting public funding because it’s following the students, wouldn’t it be possible that that actually makes it cheaper?” Jake asked.

“Possible, sure,” Spike responded.

Spike discusses his family’s private school decision

Jake asked Spike whether his children attended public or private school.

“Private school,” Spike said. “I was happy to pay out of my pocket for private school and contribute to the public school system because I know that’s a societal benefit.”

Jake wondered whether families without the same financial resources should have that choice.

“Wouldn’t it be nice for people who don’t have the option to do that, stuck in some of these bad schools, to also have the option to send their kids to a better school?” Jake asked.

“I’m with you there,” Spike replied.

Hosts disagree over income limits for assistance

Spike proposed limiting eligibility based on family income.

“Families who make over a certain amount don’t get to take the money,” Spike said.

“Why don’t they get the money they’re paying in?” Jake asked.

Spike compared the proposal with their previous discussions about free school meals.

“Families who can afford to feed their kids shouldn’t benefit from a system that provides,” Spike said. “So why has it changed with tuition and meals?”

Jake pointed to property taxes supporting schools, while Spike returned to financial need.

“It should go to families who need financial assistance,” Spike said.

“Every kid gets the same amount,” Jake responded.

“Well, I don’t see it that way, but that’s OK,” Spike said.

Watch the full discussion in the video above.

Listen to “The Jake and Spike Show” weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. on KIRO Newsradio 97.3