NEWS RELEASE: AFPI Releases List of Major Wins for Education Opportunity During the Most Historic Year for School Choice

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the America First Policy Institute (AFPI) released a document outlining the sweeping school choice wins in states across the country during the past six months. By working with school choice advocates and state policymakers, the Center for Education Opportunity at AFPI has been actively involved in championing education policies that place students first and grant them the freedom to choose the schools that best fit their learning needs.

School choice highlights across the country now include:

• 32 states that offer some school choice programs.
• 11 states that have Education Savings Account (ESA) policies.
• 15 states and Washington, D.C., that offer voucher programs.
• 137 bills advancing school choice that have been introduced in 42 states in 2023. 

School Choice Wins in 2023 include:

• Arkansas passing the comprehensive L.E.A.R.N.S. Act into law.
• Florida enacting a law to expand school choice vouchers to all students.
• Utah passing a law allowing parents to choose the best school for their children.
• Iowa signing one of the most comprehensive school choice bills in the Nation.

“In less than two years, the number of states passing universal Education Savings Account programs has increased from zero to eight—and counting.  Through experience, research, and education, the Center for Education Opportunity has been hands-on in fostering transformational action so that every child can achieve the American Dream,” said Dr. Laurie Todd-Smith, Director of the Center for Education Opportunity at AFPI. “The Center’s work in advocating for policies that make tangible reforms to our education system has greatly contributed to the incredible progress this country has made for school choice this year.”

“No child should be discriminated against based on that child’s zip code, and AFPI has been at the forefront of ensuring school choice legislation prevents this from happening. In states like Arizona, Arkansas, and Iowa, AFPI has had boots on the ground writing comprehensive policy prescriptions to offer students impactful education opportunities,” said Scott Turner, Chair of the Center for Education Opportunity at AFPI. “Success for the next generation begins with a solid foundation through education. This is truly something to celebrate.”

Part of this legislative progress includes the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA) (H.R.531 & S.120), which is currently being considered by the United States Congress. Under this bold legislation, private school choice would be expanded to all 50 states, and up to two million students would benefit nationwide. The Center for Education Opportunity continues to provide support and assistance to states across the Nation by educating policymakers and hardworking families about the importance of school choice.  

To learn more about AFPI’s work in education opportunity, click here.