These days stark lines are drawn between public and private schools, but the boundaries were much fuzzier in the 19th century, as more Catholics moved to the United States.
“You have large numbers of Catholics,” Rutgers University historian Benjamin Justice said. “The church is not a big fan of public education, and they have the political clout at the local level to create different kinds of arrangements for schooling.”
In 1936, Massachusetts lawmakers passed a law guaranteeing equal transportation for parochial and private school students. It was controversial, dividing Catholics and Protestants around the state. The law evolved over time, but the mandate still remains, making Massachusetts one of 29 states where parochial students are entitled to transportation at public expense. The Massachusetts law operates with little mention, but costs Boston, Worcester and Brockton a combined $3.4 million each year.
After the state laws were passed, the transportation controversy remained hot for years, especially in the Northeast.