DeSantis touts record applications for school choice scholarships
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FLV) – Gov. Ron DeSantis said nearly 430,000 students have participated and applied for scholarships under the state’s Tax Credit Scholarship and the Family Empowerment Scholarship program.
“With our historic move to universal school choice, families in record numbers are choosing the best educational options for their children,” DeSantis said in a press release.
The program’s historic figure supersedes its 250,000 enrollment set last year.
“I am proud of the work we have done so far, but we’re far from done—we will continue to empower parents and expand opportunities so that our students receive the best possible education,” DeSantis added.
Of those that registered, 407,000 scholarships have already been awarded to students across the state, his office said.
DeSantis’ commendation comes after his signature of HB 1 in May.
The new law expanded school choice vouchers to all students in the state.
Specifically, the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship and the Family Empowerment Scholarship provides tuition and subsequent fees at participating private schools, including curriculum, materials and other contracted services.
Transportation is also available for those attending a Florida public school other than the one that is assigned to them.
All subsidies are approved by the Florida Department of Education.
Prior to DeSantis’ signature, Florida’s scholarship program was limited to parents of certain students looking to enroll and attend private schools for specific needs, including those with disabilities.
House Bill 1 unlocks School Choice for every student in Florida. Thanks to Governor DeSantis’ signature and commitment to empowering parents, Florida has the largest expansion of School Choice in the nation, allowing every student, regardless of race, income, background, or zip code to customize their education to fit their unique needs.
Speaker of the House Paul Renner
With this historic legislation, every student has the opportunity to receive an education in an environment that allows them to thrive. I am delighted to see the successful implementation of this legislation, and I look forward to witnessing the impact these new opportunities will have on our students. Innovative policies like this are why Florida remains the gold standard for education across the nation.
Senate President Kathleen Passidomo
“All parents want their children to receive a high-quality education and our historic expansion of school choice scholarships will allow students to have the best chance of academic success,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz Jr.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida is a national model for school choice, and I am proud our parents have the opportunity to choose life-changing educational options that foster student success,” Diaz added.
