Gov. Kristi Noem vows $4M investment in ESAs, hopes the program will become universal

In what may be her final budget address, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem called for the creation of school choice program, including an initial $4 million investment.

“Good education starts in the home,” Noem said on Tuesday. “And parents should have the tools to choose what educational path is best for their kids. I am proposing that we establish education savings accounts for South Dakota students in this upcoming legislative session.”

She vowed to invest $4 million in state funds to “stand up” the program, which would provide scholarships worth up to $3,000 for low-income students. The funds could spent on private tuition or curricula for alternative education, Noem said.

“Our goal is to expand the program,” the governor also said. “My hope is that these ESAs will ultimately be available to every student in South Dakota.”

Noem is expected to resign soon if she is confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Trump’s nominee for Homeland Security secretary.

Republicans further expanded their super-majorities in both state legislative chambers in November, 64-6 in the House and 32-3 in the Senate.