MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Starting Thursday, families in Alabama who meet the criteria can submit applications for a new state initiative aimed at assisting with the financial burden of private school tuition, homeschooling expenses, and other educational costs for the upcoming academic year.
The program, known as the CHOOSE Act—short for Creating Hope and Opportunity for Our Students’ Education Act of 2024—will allocate education savings accounts that can provide families with as much as $7,000 to cover tuition at private institutions or expenses at participating schools. Additionally, parents can receive up to $2,000 to assist with homeschooling needs. Detailed information about this initiative can be accessed at the designated state website.
Alabama is joining a number of states that offer vouchers, tax credits, or scholarships to support families in financing private education or other educational avenues outside the public school system. The Alabama legislature approved this initiative in March, with intended funding becoming available for families in the 2025-2026 school year.
Initially, this program will focus on families with an adjusted gross income not exceeding 300% of the federal poverty threshold, which is approximately $77,460 for a family of three. This income cap is set to be lifted in 2027. Priority will be given to families with children who have disabilities, military families, and those from lower-income backgrounds.
Governor Kay Ivey, a Republican, advocated for this legislation during her State of the State address last year. Proponents of the bill, primarily Republican lawmakers, argue that it offers parents a valuable alternative, especially for those whose children are assigned to low-performing schools. Conversely, opponents contend that the legislation could siphon funds from public education and express concerns over whether low-income families will find the support effective, given that private school tuition often exceeds the $7,000 proposed funding.
Families interested in this program have until April 7 to submit their applications for the upcoming school year.
