What is National School Choice Week?
National School Choice Week shines a spotlight on effective K-12 education options for children. We focus equally on traditional public, charter, magnet, online, private, and home education options. Every January, our participants plan tens of thousands of events and activities–such as school fairs, open houses, and student showcases–to raise awareness of school choice across all 50 states. Year-round, our team develops resources and guides to assist families searching for schools or learning environments for their children. National School Choice Week is a charitable program of the National School Choice Awareness Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We are nonpolitical and nonpartisan, and we do not advocate for legislation.
What types of school choice does National School Choice Week celebrate?
We celebrate all types of K-12 options, including traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling. NSCW does not favor one type of education option over another. We trust parents to make the best choices for their individual children.
Who plans National School Choice Week events and activities every January?
NSCW events and activities are independently planned by tens of thousands of schools and homeschool groups, individuals, community and state-level nonprofit organizations. Participants decide how they want to celebrate NSCW and plan the events and activities that best meet their objectives.
Are there any fees to plan an activity or project during National School Choice Week?
No. We do not charge any participation or licensing fees. In fact, schools, qualifying homeschool organizations, and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations interested in planning activities during NSCW may be eligible to receive free NSCW activity packets or Event Kits by using one of our sign-up forms. Planners are responsible for the costs of their events and activities.
Will National School Choice Week provide free supplies to participants?
NSCW will provide free activity packets to registered schools and qualifying homeschool organizations. These supplies include signage, wristbands, placards, stickers, and other activity-focused materials. In addition, any school, qualifying homeschool organizations, or 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization can apply to receive a free Deluxe Event Planner Kit. This kit includes 75 of our signature yellow fleece scarves, signs, posters, banner, pennant and more. To receive the kit, you must provide details of your qualifying NSCW event or activity using our online form.
Can I purchase additional National School Choice Week supplies?
Yes. Please visit our online store, where we offer items for sale in addition to the free materials that we provide to qualifying participants. All of the proceeds from the sale of NSCW merchandise benefit NSCW’s charitable purposes.
How can I find out what is happening in my area during National School Choice Week?
In January, visit the National School Choice Week website and look at our state-by-state pages. We provide a summary of how schools, homeschool groups, organizations, and individuals are celebrating NSCW. Please note that with tens of thousands of activities being planned for 2024, we are unable to provide an exhaustive list of each project or celebration.
When is National School Choice Week in 2025?
National School Choice Week 2025 will take place from January 26-February 1, 2025.
Why is National School Choice Week held in January?
January is an ideal time for parents to start looking at schools for their children. If parents start searching for schools in January, they should have enough time to enroll their children for the following school year.
Why did I receive a box of free NSCW supplies?
We send free supplies to schools and qualifying homeschool organizations that specifically request the supplies from us by replying to an email, mailing, or fax, or by using our online form. If you feel that you have received the free supplies in error, please refer to our supply information and return page for instructions.
Are there any restrictions on the use of NSCW supplies or materials?
Yes. Schools, homeschool groups, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, and individuals are only permitted to use NSCW materials and supplies for charitable, educational purposes that align with NSCW’s inclusive, nonpartisan, and nonpolitical mission. It is not permissible to use NSCW materials to: lobby directly or indirectly for legislation, support or oppose candidates for political office, engage in any political activity or voter registration drive, or to conduct any activities that may conflict with, obscure, or otherwise endanger NSCW’s charitable purposes and mission.
Does National School Choice Week advocate for school choice legislation?
No. NSCW is a nonprofit program of a 501(c)(3) private operating foundation. Accordingly, we do not advocate—directly or indirectly—for or against any legislation or policy proposals. In addition, use of NSCW’s name, likeness, branding, logos, or other intellectual property is not permitted for any lobbying or political purposes, or for any purposes that do not align with NSCW’s values or charitable mission.