May 22, 2025
Ripon, WI — The Association of Educational Service Agencies (AESA) issued a statement in support of the U.S. Supreme Court’s 4-4 decision in Oklahoma Statewide Charter School Board v. Drummond, which effectively upholds a lower court ruling preventing the establishment of the first publicly funded religious charter school in the nation.
AESA joined several education and advocacy organizations in submitting an amicus brief in this case, outlining the significant constitutional and educational implications of allowing religious charter schools to operate with public funds.
Joan Wade, Executive Director of AESA, released the following statement:
"As a national organization committed to strengthening public education, AESA stands firmly in support of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Oklahoma Statewide Charter School Board v. Drummond. This ruling affirms the foundational principle that public schools must remain non-sectarian and open to all.
Our members serve public school districts across the country, and we believe taxpayer dollars must be directed toward inclusive, high-quality public education—not toward institutions that promote religious doctrine. We will continue to advocate for the separation of church and state and for equitable access to public education for every student."
The decision marks a significant milestone in preserving the constitutional boundary between church and state, especially in the administration of public education.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Claire Sowder
Director of Communications & Marketing
Mobile: 515-979-0392
csowder@aesa.us