"Jay-Z's $300 Million for Philadelphia Schools Draws Both Praise and Criticism".

In an age where celebrities increasingly wield influence beyond entertainment, Jay-Z, iconic rapper and entrepreneur, is working on a new project that seems to have people divided. Along with his label Roc-Nation, Jay-Z aims to tackle the Philly education system and improve schooling in economically disadvantaged areas plagued by underfunding.

Earlier in the month, Roc Nation announced they would spearhead the Philly educational campaign to secure about $300 million in scholarships to attend the city's private schools. All this is done to bring awareness to the Pennsylvania Award for Student Success (PASS). In order to qualify for the PASS program students must come from low-income families and it would provide a scholarship eligible for students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

Yet, despite its noble intentions, Jay-Z's proposal to expand access to private and charter schools has not escaped criticism. While some argue it could provide families with the educational options they need, others remain less than optimistic.

Those against this initiative believe that instead of giving funding to private schools, Jay-Z should be investing back into the public education system. Many think that having funding stripped from public schools will have a major impact on the kids and families Jay-Z claims he wants to help. Others propose that the $300 million should be used to benefit multiple schools in multiple states as opposed to just Philly.

However, those supporting his endeavors and for the voucher program believe that this is exactly what Philadelphia needs. A few parents and family members of those who grew up in the Philly education system and currently have children in the public school system know that change needs to take place and see the PASS bill as a way to get that change. Others also pointed out that Jay-Z has done a lot of other areas such as New York, his birthright, and think that its time for Philly to have its moment.

Those familiar with the Philadelphia education system understand its persistent issue of underfunding. Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Court recently deemed the state’s school funding system unconstitutional. A report earlier this year highlighted that Pennsylvania falls short in funding public school districts by over $5 billion annually. In response, legislation has been enacted to boost public school funding by nearly $900 million. So with facts such as these, does focusing attention on private and charter schools in Philadelphia seem to be the best move or should that money go back to the public school system, a system that noticeably needs help? Here’s what a few people had to say about the whole ordeal.