Vouchers for Religious Schools and the Development of Democratic Values

Abstract

Federal courts have permitted tax credits for tuition at religious schools. Does a religious mission inhibit a school's ability or willingness to teach civic values, such as tolerance for political and religious differences? This essay examines relevant empirical research to find that religious schools, overall, do no worse than public schools at teaching civic values. Research also points to some specific steps educators can take to promote the development of civic values.

Key words::

• civic education
• religious schools
• socialization
• vouchers