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Simple English definitions for legal terms
student-benefit theory
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A quick definition of student-benefit theory:
The student-benefit theory is a principle that allows state funds to be given to private-school students if it can be shown that it benefits the child. This means that if a private-school student needs textbooks, for example, the state can provide them with the necessary funds to purchase them. The Supreme Court upheld this theory in a Louisiana case where the state provided textbooks to all children, including those in private schools. This theory is also known as the child-benefit theory.
A more thorough explanation:
Student-benefit theory is a principle that allows state funds to be given to private-school students if it can be justified as benefiting the child. This means that if a program or service is provided to all students, including those in private schools, and it benefits the child, then state funds can be used to pay for it.
For example, in Louisiana, a law was passed that allowed the purchase of textbooks for all children in the state, including those in private schools, under the student-benefit theory. The Supreme Court upheld this law in Cochran v. Louisiana State Bd. of Educ. in 1930.
This theory is also known as the child-benefit theory.
Overall, the student-benefit theory allows for state funds to be used to benefit all students, regardless of whether they attend public or private schools, as long as the program or service benefits the child.