Idaho lawmaker pushes private school choice amid debate [Video]

IDAHO FALLS — To Republican Rep. Wendy Horman, private school choice is the “civil rights issue of our time,” and a way to ensure all students get the best possible education, regardless of income or zip code.

To Rod Gramer, former president of Idaho Business for Education, it’s an “existential threat” to public education and “the most expensive government handout in the history of the United States.”

Horman and Gramer sparred over their opposing views at a debate hosted by the Idaho Falls City Club Thursday in front of about 95 people. Their debate comes just weeks ahead of a legislative session where private school choice will likely take center stage.

The pair disagreed on a range of issues — from the cost of private school choice to how to hold private schools accountable to who should decide what students learn in school.

Their tense back-and-forth echoed some common arguments …