School Choice Programs Benefit Families: A Case Study

Denver resident Mariah Wakefield felt constrained by limited school options for her adoptive daughter, Jasiya. Wakefield explained that while the Denver Public School system wasn’t entirely insufficient, Jasiya’s unique gifts required more support than it could offer.

Wakefield’s journey began when she became Jasiya’s legal guardian after the passing of the girl’s mother in 2013. Despite facing personal challenges, including bereavement and household instability, Wakefield prioritized her daughter’s future.

Their situation took a positive turn with help from ACE Scholarships. This national Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) supported Wakefield in enrolling Jasiya in a suitable school. ACE Scholarships are known for assisting lower-income families by providing privately raised scholarships.

A Department of Education official mentioned that “competitive pressure” could encourage states to leverage private donations created by the Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC).

Wakefield wants more parents to learn about ACE Scholarships as they launch a campaign aligned with President Donald Trump’s school choice initiative. The program incentivizes contributions to nonprofit SGOs through federal tax credits, with individual taxpayers receiving up to $1,700 in credits, and $3,400 for married couples filing jointly. Importantly, state governors must opt into this legislation for local participation.

Already, over half of U.S. states have joined the program. Colorado’s Governor, Jared Polis, was the first Democratic governor to participate, acknowledging the vital funding the program provides for educational programs statewide. New York Governor, Kathy Hochul, also faced pressures related to school choice amidst ongoing discussions about public school enrollment.

School choice remains a divisive topic, often opposed by Democrats concerned about funding being diverted from public schools and unions. However, alternative education demand has increased, prompting fresh evaluations of current policies post-pandemic.

ACE Scholarships, established 26 years ago, have issued over 121,000 scholarships worth $395 million in 13 states. Their “Make It Possible” campaign aims to raise awareness of EFTC and educate families on maximizing available educational opportunities.

Wakefield’s story exemplifies the benefits of school choice policies in unlocking potential. She shared her experience, stressing the importance of financial support in accessing quality education, allowing her daughter to thrive at Kent Denver School.

Kristy Badger, ACE’s chief marketing officer, highlighted the broader impact: “For many American children, financial circumstances define their education opportunities. Every child has distinct talents and learning needs, and EFTC could make various opportunities available for countless students.”

Reporter Joshua Q. Nelson, from Fox News Digital, covers cultural, educational, and policy trends. He examines developments in reparations, the Department of Education, and immigration. Nelson joined Fox News in 2019 after earning credentials from Syracuse University and the University of Pennsylvania.