Families Chart the Course
Florida just hit a historic milestone: more than 50% of K-12 students—nearly 1.8 million kids—are choosing an option outside of their assigned district school. This makes Florida the #1 state for education freedom, empowering every family the power to choose what’s best for their child.
How did we get here?
It started in 1999 when Gov. Jeb Bush launched the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship, opening doors for low-income families. The McKay Scholarship followed for students with disabilities. Fast-forward to 2014: the Gardiner Scholarship introduced Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), letting eligible families customize education with flexible funds.
The shift began with the introduction of Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), which gave families direct control over education funds. In 2014, the Gardiner Scholarship (later renamed Family Empowerment Scholarship for Unique Abilities) provided flexible funding for students with disabilities. By 2019, the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO), backed by Senate President Bill Galvano and House Speaker José Oliva, empowered low-income families with funds to choose private schools, homeschooling, or tutoring.
The Game-Changer:
The pivotal moment arrived in 2023 when legislators passed HB 1 making ESA eligibility universal. Today, every K-12 student is empowered with about $8,000 to customize their education—whether for private school tuition, online courses, or homeschool resources. Upon signing the bill, Gov. Ron DeSantis, a fierce advocate for education freedom, declared, “Today’s bill signing represents the largest expansion of education choice in the history of these United States.” Legislative champions like Sen. Manny Diaz Jr., who as Education Committee Chair pushed for innovative funding models, ensured policies aligned with family needs.
Florida’s choice menu is unmatched:
- Universal ESAs: every family is empowered to curate their kids’ education. Nearly 360,000 students participated in 2024, with 500,000 total on scholarships.
- Open Enrollment: Families can apply to any public school, with a travel allowance easing the way.
- Homeschooling: 154,000 kids, up 50,000 since 2019, fueled by ESA funds.
- Dual Enrollment: Tens of thousands earn college credits early, blending high school and higher ed.
- Charter Schools: 400,000 students in 720+ schools.
Why It Matters
With data showing nearly 1.8 million kids benefited from education freedom in 2023-2024, the numbers are likely higher today. More Florida kids are finding the educational path that works best for them. With half its students in tailored programs, the Sunshine State is a beacon for the nation. Florida’s showing the way: every kid deserves an education that fits.
