Alabama school new school voucher program, the CHOOSE Act, has already attracted over 23,000 students in its first year, offering state-funded financial support to families seeking alternatives to traditional public education. Under the act, eligible private school students receive $7,000 annually, while homeschooled students are granted $2,000—amounts intended to alleviate the financial burden of non-public education. The average private school tuition in Alabama currently sits around $8,900 per year, according to data cited by WVTM 13.
Enacted in 2024 and launched for the 2025–26 school year, the CHOOSE Act—short for Creating Hope and Opportunity for Our Students’ Education—provides families with Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) managed through a partnership between the Alabama Department of Revenue and ClassWallet. Initial eligibility is limited to families earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level (roughly $77,460 for a family of three), with plans to eliminate the income cap by 2027. Even then, priority will still be given to low-income households and students with disabilities.
Participation Surges While Questions Mount
Newly released data indicates that 22,167 applications were submitted for 36,873 students, vastly outpacing initial projections. Of these, over 15,400 students were already enrolled in private schools, 9,070 were homeschooled, and only 10,287 transitioned from public schools. These figures, highlighted in a report from al.com, have sparked criticism that the program is disproportionately benefiting families already engaged in non-public education.
Demographic data show 58% of applicants are white, and 41% are non-white, a distribution slightly more diverse than Alabama school general population, which is approximately 64% white.
With a $100 million budget set for the program’s first year, lawmakers and educators worry that funds may run dry unless additional appropriations are made. The Alabama Department of Revenue is expected to begin notifying approved families in early May, though officials warn that not all applicants will receive funding this year due to high demand.
Alabama school Applause and Opposition Reflect Deep Divides
Governor Kay Ivey and other supporters have hailed the CHOOSE Act as a win for educational freedom, enabling parents to tailor their children’s learning environments. The program also reserves the first 500 spots for students with disabilities, a move advocates say ensures inclusivity and equitable access.
However, critics argue the program risks undermining Alabama school struggling public schools. Democratic State Senator Rodger Smitherman noted that over 150 public schools are currently underperforming, and redirecting public funds to private education could exacerbate these challenges. Dr. Allison King of the Alabama Education Association added that the data suggests limited movement out of public schools, meaning the vouchers are largely subsidizing families already affording private options.
Educators and lawmakers alike will be watching closely as the CHOOSE Act unfolds, grappling with how to balance school choice, fiscal responsibility, and support for public education in a state where equity in access remains a pressing concern.