Differential Entry Into a Voucher Program

Abstract

Publicly funded voucher programs attempt to target low-income families, but concern exists as to whether such programs actually “cream” students from public schools. Data collected as part of the evaluation of the Cleveland Scholarship and Tutoring Program are used to examine whether differences exist between three subgroups of applicants and entrants to the Cleveland voucher program within and across time. This research suggests that voucher recipients who choose not to use their voucher tend to be more minority and lower income than those who are awarded and use a voucher and those who apply for but are not awarded a voucher. Across time, individuals who receive and use a voucher tend to attend a private school prior to applying for a voucher, whereas individuals who apply and are not awarded or who choose not to use an awarded voucher tend to attend public schools prior to applying for a voucher.