There are national education standards, so yes, take the state government decisions out of the equation. Say: "provide $x per student, we'll contribute $y per student." we don't need states (or federal govt) increasing contributions to private schools while decreasing it for public schools. I understand that being in opposition you have to contradict just about anything the government says. I also understand that being in government you have to think of not alienating the swing voters. Yes, doing the right thing is not in the nature of governments.

Solution is simple if you're not the government or the opposition. Gradually phase out funding to independent schools, while you set up new ones.

What we need is equal opportunity for every kid. Private schools are the antithesis of that. If your family can afford it, you're getting a leg up, if they can't, well, here's some bootstraps.

Sorry about honing on the catholic schools. You've mentioned them and my partner still has PTSD from her catholic education. I also see no need for religious school funding, especially those run by the biggest child molestation organisation on the planet.