The North Dakota House Education Committee convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 2400, which has sparked significant debate regarding educational choice and funding for public schools. The meeting featured testimony from various stakeholders, including educators and representatives from educational associations.

Rick Deagle, the superintendent of Kidder County School District, voiced strong opposition to the bill, emphasizing its potential negative impact on public education, particularly in rural areas. Deagle highlighted that while the notion of increased educational choice may seem beneficial, it threatens the quality and stability of public schools. He pointed out that public schools are held to high standards of accountability, including open records and acceptance of all students, which private institutions are not required to follow. Deagle expressed concern that the bill would divert essential funding away from public education, noting that a proposed increase in per pupil funding had already been reduced due to the financial implications of the bill.

Deagle also shared the challenges faced by his district, including the financial burden of providing one-on-one support for students with disabilities. He argued that the funding structure for special education is inadequate, with only about 12% of costs covered by state funding, leaving taxpayers to cover the remainder. He concluded his testimony by urging the committee to reconsider the implications of diverting funds from public education, especially when there are pressing needs for property tax relief for agricultural landowners.

Following Deagle's testimony, Teresa Deckard, a volunteer lobbyist for the North Dakota Homeschool Association, also expressed opposition to the bill. She acknowledged the unusual alignment with public school advocates, stating that the concerns raised by Deagle resonated with her organization. Deckard thanked the bill's sponsor for her efforts but indicated that the association had reservations about the bill's potential consequences.

The committee's discussions highlighted the ongoing tension between educational choice and the funding of public schools, particularly in rural communities. As the meeting concluded, no further questions were posed to the speakers, leaving the future of Senate Bill 2400 uncertain as the committee continues to deliberate on its implications for North Dakota's education system.