In a momentous show of support for school choice, more than 29,000 Iowans have applied for the state’s groundbreaking Students First Education Savings Account (ESA), as confirmed by the office of Gov. Kim Reynolds (R). This marks a significant stride toward educational liberty for Iowans, enabling families to opt for the schooling that best fits their child’s needs.
Reynolds, a stalwart proponent of the ESA, expressed her delight at the overwhelming response, stating, “The tremendous response from Iowa families demonstrates there’s both a need and a strong desire for school choice in our state.” She underscored how the freedom to select an education pathway could create equal opportunities for the state’s students, thereby leveling the educational playing field.
Almost 17,000 Iowa students have been approved for the state's new education savings accounts to help pay tuition at private schools, already above the 14,000 predicted. https://t.co/UETrKtNNRT
— Dispatch/Argus (@Dispatch_Argus) July 6, 2023
However, the program’s introductory phase can accommodate only 9,000 applicants in private schools, which means several families will miss out on the opportunity this year. Nevertheless, the number of open slots is projected to increase in the coming years, ensuring more comprehensive access for interested families.
The state-funded accounts can be used to pay private school expenses, marking a significant shift in Iowa’s educational financing model. This year, families approved for the ESA will receive $7,635 per student for the 2023-2024 school year.
Concerning the cost, state officials have determined that funding all the applications already approved would amount to $133.5 million, a figure expected to rise as more applications gain approval.
Notably, a significant portion of the approved applications—60% to be precise—comprises students who are already enrolled in accredited private schools. The remaining 40%, which includes incoming kindergarteners, are students who plan to switch from public to private schools this year.
In terms of eligibility, families earning below $90,000 annually, or 300% of the federal poverty line, will qualify for the ESA. As the program advances, however, an inevitable financial strain may be imposed on public schools, as they stand to lose the $7,635 in per-pupil funding from the state for every student who switches to a private school.
Despite the concerns raised by detractors over possible resource drain from public schools, it’s crucial to remember the program’s core aim—empowering parents with the right to decide what’s best for their children’s education. Moreover, the economic implications will become clear once school districts report their certified enrollment to the state this coming October.
State Rep. John Wills (R), an ardent supporter of the bill, assured that Iowa’s ample rainy day fund could cover additional scholarships beyond what was budgeted. Furthermore, as the next legislative session commences in January, more funds can be budgeted if necessary.
This impressive initiative aligns with the conservative principle of parental freedom in education. As Gov. Reynolds’ ESA program demonstrates, the future of education is one where parents hold the keys. They can open doors to innovative, dynamic, and effective learning experiences that best serve their children’s unique needs. Ultimately, the power of choice can usher in a new era of educational excellence in Iowa and around America.
