Governor Kay Ivey recently honored a specific family that has chosen to participate in the state's school choice, Education Savings Account system, the CHOOSE Act, highlighting the strides she believes the additional funding has provided.
The program, signed into law in 2024, called the Creating Hope and Opportunity for Our Students' Education (CHOOSE) Act, established education savings accounts for students who pursue alternative schooling methods or attend a school outside their zone.
Since then, it has seen increased funding and availability for Alabama families.
To highlight the program's perceived benefits, Ivey recognized the Harrisons, an Alabama family using the CHOOSE Act to fund the education of several children in the family.
"Alabama parents work hard every day to provide the very best for their children, and they deserve the opportunity to choose an educational setting that fits their needs, whether that means a smaller, close-knit environment or more individualized, one-on-one attention in the classroom," Ivey said. "I am proud to support programs that empower our families and put Alabama students first."
The parents, Autumn and Eric Harrison, have three children: Scarlett, who is in 6th grade; Henleigh, in 1st grade and Josie, in Pre-K. The two oldest, Scarlett and Henleigh, are currently supported by the CHOOSE Act, and Josie will also be supported starting with the 2026-2027 round of funding.
"Governor Ivey got it right with this one. Just having the option to choose the education we prefer for our girls has been life changing," Autumn Harrison said.
"The Harrison family is full of energy, laughter and a shared love for time together at home and outdoors," a release from Ivey's office read. "Scarlett, Henleigh and Josie each bring their own personality to the mix. Scarlett enjoys math and loves to dance, while Henleigh has a creative spirit and especially enjoys art. Josie brings plenty of energy and fun – like many children her age, her favorite parts of the day include P.E., lunchtime, naptime and the playground. Together, the girls love to dance, play outside and spend time with their cat and dogs."
The 2026–2027 CHOOSE Act application period officially closed at midnight on March 31, with a record-breaking 29,341 applications representing 48,927 students. Of these, 18,832 were new applications for 29,986 students, while 10,509 were renewal applications for 18,941 students.
Families can expect to be notified of their award status in April, and eligible students may begin using their CHOOSE Act funds for approved educational expenses starting July 1.
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