CHOOSE Act
Navigating Alabama’s new Education Savings Account (ESA) program can feel overwhelming, but our goal is to provide you with clear and helpful guidance as we all learn together. This page will break down the key information and answer common questions to ensure you and your family feel prepared.
Join us on Facebook Alabama ESA Homeschool Support (CHOOSE act) for more info and to ask questions of Chloe Duren with Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Fund, and other homeschool leaders and Homeschool Education Service providers
Welcome to Alabama ESA Homeschool Support (CHOOSE Act)
This page is dedicated to homeschool families navigating Alabama’s ESA program. We aim to:
- Share updates on program guidelines, application deadlines, and approved vendors.
- Answer questions based on insights from official sources, webinars, and legislative updates.
- Keep the information organized so it doesn’t get lost in the busyness of everyday life.
Since the ESA program is new, details are still being worked out. We’re committed to keeping homeschool
families informed every step of the way.
Key Details About the CHOOSE Act ESA Program
What Is the CHOOSE Act ESA Program?
The CHOOSE Act was signed into law to offer homeschoolers $2,000 per student annually, with a $4,000 cap per family.
Important Dates
- Sign-Ups Open: January 2, 2025
- Funds Available: Fall 2025
How Funds Will Be Managed
- Funds will not go directly to parents but must be spent through the ClassWallet system with approved vendors.
- There are restrictions, such as how often electronics like laptops and tablets can be purchased.
Approved Vendors and Education Service Providers (ESPs)
A list of approved private schools and ESPs is available online. Since this is the program’s first year, the list is still small but is expected to grow. If you want a vendor to apply to be approved, here’s what to tell them:
“Visit chooseact.alabama.gov and look for the Education Service Provider (ESP) application. The process is
straightforward, and once approved, they can offer their services to families using ESA funds.“
How ESAs Will Be Awarded
Year 1 (2025-2026 School Year):
- First 500 ESAs go to students with special needs.
- Next priority goes to dependents of active-duty service members in priority schools.
- Remaining ESAs are awarded based on the family’s Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).
Year 2 (2026-2027 School Year):
- First 500 ESAs go to students with special needs.
- Next priority goes to students who received an ESA in the prior year.
- Next, dependents of active-duty service members in priority schools.
- Remaining ESAs are awarded based on AGI.
Year 3 and Beyond (2027-2028):
- Prioritization remains the same.
Note: Siblings of participating students are given priority.
Requirements for Homeschoolers Participating in the CHOOSE Act
- Proof of Eligibility:
- Proof of Alabama residency (e.g., utility bill, driver’s license).
- Proof of income (e.g., tax return, W-2, or SSA statement).
- Birth certificate for each participating student.
- Program Participation:
- Funds must be used exclusively for approved expenses through ClassWallet.
- Maintain accurate records of how funds are used. Accounts may be audited.
- Follow restrictions on specific purchases, such as the frequency of buying electronics.
- Annual Reapplication:
- Families must reapply each year with updated proof of eligibility.
- No Testing or Curriculum Mandates:
- There is currently no requirement for standardized testing or restrictions on curriculum choice.
- However, any changes to the program’s rules will need to be monitored closely.
- Household Information:
- Families must submit information about who lives in the home and their roles/activities.
- Compliance with Homeschool Law:
- Homeschoolers must continue to follow Alabama’s homeschool laws regarding notification, enrollment, and attendance.
Common Questions
Q: Will I be required to complete standardized testing?
A: No. Testing is not currently required for homeschoolers participating in the ESA program. Any addition of testing requirements would need further legislative action.
Q: Will I be restricted in my curriculum choices?
A: No. The CHOOSE Act does not impose curriculum restrictions for homeschoolers. Your choices may be influenced by the availability of approved vendors within the ClassWallet system, but there are no mandates on what curriculum you can or cannot use.
Q: Will there be webinars to help me understand the process?
A: Yes! The state is hosting live webinars for parents to explain the program. These sessions often include a Q&A at the end, so have a paper and pen ready to jot down your questions.
Q: How do technology purchases work?
A: Technology purchases, such as laptops and tablets, are allowed but limited to one device per student per academic year. Make sure to check the list of approved vendors in ClassWallet.
Q: Can out-of-state vendors apply to be approved ESPs?
A: Yes, out-of-state vendors can apply as long as they meet the program’s guidelines.
Q: Where can I find the list of approved vendors?
A: The list of approved private schools and Education Service Providers (ESPs) is available through ClassWallet. Keep in mind that since this is the program’s first year, the list is still growing.
Final Thoughts
This program represents a significant shift in educational funding, and while it offers exciting opportunities, there will also be growing pains. Patience and attention to detail will be key as we work through this first year together. We’ll continue to monitor legislative changes and keep you updated to ensure homeschool freedoms are maintained.
If you have any questions or need additional guidance, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!
Ready to apply?
If you have your documents available, your student is a resident of Alabama, and your household’s adjusted gross income falls within the guidelines provided, click APPLY NOW below.
Please note you will be leaving this website and going to the website of our application partner.
