Deciding where to send your child to school is one of the biggest decisions you face as a parent. Navigating your choices for K-12 education starts with knowing school choice options are available to you in Connecticut. There may be more options than you realize! Once you’re equipped with knowing your options, you can make the best choice for your family.
Looking for special education options? You can learn what special education services are available in Connecticut at the Ultimate Guide to Special Education.
Most children in Connecticut (77.3%) attend traditional public schools. Traditional public schools are free to attend, open to all students, operated by school districts, and funded by federal, state, and local government. Did you know that Connecticut spends an average of $22,769 per public school student each year? You can search your school’s spending and that of nearby schools at Project Nickel.
Connecticut has restricted open enrollment for public school. What this means is that parents in some Connecticut cities may be able to choose traditional public schools outside of their districts. This applies in Hartford, Bridgeport, New Haven, and New London, and may apply in other cities. Transfers within districts are sometimes an option as well. As a real-world example, you may wish to view the transfer application for switching schools within Norwalk Public Schools. Local boards of education decide whether to provide transportation for students participating in open enrollment.
If you live in an area of Connecticut with open enrollment, take advantage of this option by visiting multiple public schools near you and discovering which is the best fit for your family. Traditional public schools aren’t all the same: They may differ in learning methods and one may just “feel different” than another to you.
If you would like to participate in open enrollment, contact your local district for more information. Connecticut prohibits districts from charging tuition for transfer students, so open enrollment is always a free option for families.
Like traditional public schools, charter schools are public, free, and usually have no requirements for entry. What distinguishes charter schools is that they have extra freedom to innovate with curriculum and learning methods and are accountable to authorizing entities (like school districts or colleges) for results.
Each school has a charter which explains the school’s purpose and what specific community need it serves. That could be providing a Spanish immersion program or offering a rigorous, literacy-based curriculum. If there are more families seeking admittance to a charter school than there are seats, a good old-fashioned lottery system is usually used to determine admittance.
New for 2023: While Newark Enrolls has been a common application platform for traditional public schools and charter schools in the past, seven charter networks have now switched to a new enrollment platform called the Newark Common App. Families interested in North Star Academy, KIPP, Great Oaks Legacy, Marion P. Thomas, Achieve Community, People’s Preparatory, and Philip’s Academy should use the Newark Common App moving forward.
Depending on where you live in Connecticut, you may also be able to choose a magnet school. These schools are free public schools that allow kids to focus on specific themes or tracks, like STEM or the performing arts. For example, Breakthrough Magnet School in Hartford has a unique character education curriculum; the school has been recognized two years in a row for exemplary performance by Magnet Schools of America. Meanwhile, the Bristol Arts and Innovation Magnet School has two fully functional theaters and offers pathways in theater and creative construction. A magnet school might be a good option if your child learns best by focusing on a subject they are passionate about.
While magnet schools are a choice many parents haven’t heard of, most families are familiar with private schools. Connecticut’s private schools come in all shapes and forms, from religious schools to schools designed for children with special needs. One innovative private school in Connecticut, Education without Walls, is located on a farm in New Milford and offers courses in computer science, cooking, and improvisation, as well as core subjects.
There are more than 400 private schools across the state of Connecticut that serve 10% of the K-12 student population. The average tuition for private schools in the state is $22,648 for elementary schools and $40,783 for high schools. In Connecticut, there are no state-run scholarships to help families afford private school tuition, but privately-funded scholarships may be available. Additionally, the federal government allows parents to save for K-12 private school tuition using tax-preferred 529 savings accounts.
Also, Connecticut families can choose homeschooling, the process of parents educating students at home. You can homeschool in all 50 states and homeschooling is an increasingly popular choice. As both technology and school choices have spread in Connecticut, there are more support and resources for homeschooling than ever.
In Connecticut, 2.5% of all K-12 students are homeschooled. It is recommended that families file an optional notice of intent to homeschool within 10 days of beginning homeschooling. Notice may be requested by districts annually. It is also recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant.
Connecticut Microschools and Mix-and-Match Learning
Increasingly, Connecticut families are blending school options to come up with creative new ways to personalize education. Microschools are one of these ways. A microschool refers to students gathering together in a small group – with adult supervision – to learn, explore, and socialize. Microschools can take a variety of shapes and legal forms, from homeschoolers coming together at an enrichment center to a private school committed to small classrooms. What microschools share in common is a commitment to small-group learning, close-knit relationships, and emphasizing children as individual learners.
Here are a few real examples of microschools and related resources in your state:
One example of homeschoolers gathering in a pod-like community is LearnerSpace in Bethel.
From Seeds to Sprouts is a Private Education Association establishing a one-room schoolhouse with collaborative homeschooling. From Seeds to Sprouts is located in Shelton.
Remember, microschooling is more a mentality than a specific legal distinction in most cases. Often, a family participates in a microschool while legally homeschooling, or being enrolled in a private or online school.
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Download the School Choice Snapshot for Connecticut
First off, if you’re making a K-12 education decision for your child, you’re not alone. Tens of thousands of Colorado parents are making similar decisions each year. Secondly, you can do it! In Colorado, you have access to more school choice options than you might realize. Knowing and navigating these options can help you find a great school. And remember, every child is different. So, the best school for your neighbor’s child may be different than the best school for your child.
Looking for special education options? You can learn what special education services are available in Colorado at the Ultimate Guide to Special Education.
Most children in Colorado (76.5%) attend traditional public schools. Traditional public schools are free to attend, open to all students, and operated by school districts. Public schools are funded by federal, state, and local government. Did you know that Colorado spends, on average, $12,255 per public school student each year? You can search your school’s spending and that of nearby schools at Project Nickel.
Colorado has unrestricted open enrollment for public schools. What this means is that you may be able to send your child to any public school in Colorado, regardless of where you live or where the school is located. You can take advantage of this important option by visiting multiple public schools near you and discovering which is the best fit for your family. Since Colorado has a law prohibiting public schools from charging tuition for transfer students, open enrollment is always a free option for families.
Another widespread public school choice in Colorado are charter schools. These schools are tuition-free public schools that have extra freedom to innovate with learning methods. If traditional public schools are a little like luxury liners that are able to serve many people but slower to turn when the wind changes, charter schools are a little like sailboats, which are built for a smaller number of people but are easier to adjust and navigate.
Each public charter school has a charter that explains the school’s purpose and what specific community need it serves. This purpose might be providing a STEAM program or offering a rigorous, literacy-based curriculum. One recently-opened charter high school focuses on agriculture, food, health, and environmental stewardship; it even has a soil and seed lab! If there are more families seeking admittance to a charter school than there are seats, a lottery system is usually used to determine admittance.
You can also choose magnet schools! These public schools allow kids to narrow in on a specific learning track, like engineering or STEM. At a magnet school, all the subjects are taught through the lenses of that specific track.
We interviewed one Colorado magnet school, New Emerson School at Columbus. Students at New Emerson combined the ideas of a library and a laboratory to make a “libratory.” Cool stuff!
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Colorado Private Schools
Additionally, Colorado families can choose from private schools, which come in all shapes and forms, from religious schools to schools designed for children with special needs. These schools are nonpublic schools that charge tuition.
Unfortunately, in Colorado there are no state-run scholarship programs to help families afford private school tuition. However, there may be privately funded scholarships available. ACE Scholarships, for instance, works to provide scholarships for disadvantaged students in Colorado and other states. Also, the federal government allows parents to save for K-12 private school tuition using tax-preferred 529 savings accounts.
There are also many online schools serving specific grades. For example, students statewide in grades 4-12 who are interested in career technical education may wish to check out Destinations Career Academy of Colorado, which specializes in real-world training for specific careers. Students in grades 9-12 who need extra academic and social support to excel may want to consider Pikes Peak Online School.
You can dive into a full list of online options at the Colorado Department of Education. Note that some of the online options listed are available only to local students.
In addition, Colorado Digital Learning Solutions is the official state virtual school and offers part-time courses for middle-school and high-school students. While Colorado Digital Learning Solutions charges fees, students attending Colorado traditional public schools and public charter schools may have their fees subsidized. Another part-time option for some Colorado students is My Tech High, which partners with Colorado Early Colleges and the Vilas School District to offer online learning opportunities for students ages 5-18.
We recently interviewed a Colorado online school, GOAL Academy. This online school has drop-in centers where students can work and frequent school field trips, offering families a unique blend of virtual and in-person education.
Homeschooling is also available to Colorado families. Homeschooling is the process of parents educating students at home and is permitted in all 50 states. As both technology and school choices have spread in Colorado, homeschooling is an increasingly popular choice with more support and resources than ever.
In Colorado, requires notice of your intent to homeschool, if you are using the state’s homeschool statue, 14 days prior to homeschooling annually. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant.
Today, many Colorado families today are mixing and matching school options to come up with new ways to personalize education. Microschools are one of these ways. A microschool refers to students gathering together in a small group – with adult supervision – to learn, explore, and socialize. Microschools can take a variety of shapes and legal forms, from homeschoolers coming together at an enrichment center to a private school committed to small classrooms. What microschools share in common is a commitment to small-group learning, close-knit relationships, and emphasizing children as individual learners.
Here are a few real examples of microschools in Colorado:
Zealous Schools is one organization operating a few microschools as independent schools in Colorado.
In Denver, Embark Education blends study and real world experience, allowing students to work half-hour shifts at a nearby coffee shop and bike shop.
Anastasis Academy is a Christian microschool in Centennial focusing on experiential learning and small, mixed-age classes.
North Star Microschool is a home-based learning center modeled after the one-room schoolhouse.
La Luz Education is an independent microschool / homeschool enrichment program for sixth and seventh graders. The program is tuition-free and offers education in both English and Spanish.
Montessori Peaks Academy is a Colorado public charter school, but offers several free enrichment programs for homeschool students.
Remember, microschooling is more a mentality than a specific legal distinction in most cases. Often, a family participates in a microschool while legally homeschooling, or being enrolled in a private or online school.
Each spring, parents face one of the biggest decisions they can make for their child’s future: What school environment will their child spend about 1,000 hours in next year? Let’s dive in to school choice in California.
Making that decision with confidence starts with knowing your options; you may have more school choices than you realize. Understanding these options can help you find a school where your child grows and learns to the best of their ability. Remember, each child is unique. So, the “best” school for your child may be different than the “best” school for your neighbor’s child. That’s okay!
First off, most children in California (70.1%) attend traditional public schools. Traditional public schools are free to attend, open to all students, operated by school districts, and funded by taxpayers like you. California spends an average of $14,985per public school pupil each year.
Open enrollment is an important form of public school choice; open enrollment refers to whether a state allows parents to send their children to schools outside of their district. In California, parents of students assigned to low-performing schools may be able to transfer their children to another school based on the state’s limited open enrollment laws. In general, school districts in California can also set their own open enrollment policies, so parents can check with their local district to learn more. As a real-world example, the William S. Hart Union High School District only accepts transfers within its district for a few student groups, including victims of bullying, foster youth, and children of active military.
Parents can request that the school they select through open enrollment provides transportation assistance.
Different public schools may have different cultures and missions. For example, we recently spoke to Sonia Flores, the principal at California’s Dr. TJ Owens Gilroy Early College Academy, which was ranked in the top 50 public high schools in the United States. She told us that, while the school serves all students, its special mission is to support “students who are first in their family to go to college, or students who come from a low-income background who face obstacles that prevent them from being successful in a comprehensive high school setting.”
Secondly, families in California have another tuition-free option in charter schools. Like traditional public schools, charter schools are public, free, and usually have no requirements for entry. What distinguishes charter schools is that they have extra freedom to innovate with learning methods. In addition, public charter schools are accountable to authorizing entities, such as colleges or school districts, for results.
The first charter school in California opened in 1994 in San Carlos. Today, about one in nine of California’s public school students attend a charter school. The state has around 1,000 charter schools, which can be found in this school directory. Each charter has a particular focus and strives to fill a unique role in the local community. For example, this could be providing a STEAM program or a rigorous literacy program. When we interviewed the executive director of one of California’s largest charter schools, Granada Hills Charter School, we learned that the school serves students from 60 countries who, collectively, speak more than 40 languages!
Depending on where you live in California, you may also be able to choose a magnet school. These free, public schools allow kids to focus on specific themes, like science or the performing arts. If your child learns best by diving deeply into a subject he or she is passionate about, a magnet school could be a good fit.
In addition, you can consider private schools, nonpublic schools that charge tuition. There are about 3,815 private schools across the state of California, and these schools offer families unique learning environments. For instance, private schools may be religious schools, non-sectarian Montessori schools, or schools designed for children with learning differences. 8.6% of the K-12 student population in California attends a private school.
The average tuition for private schools in the state is $15,147 for elementary schools and $20,808 for high schools. Tuition can vary quite a lot, and may be much lower in some cases. Unfortunately, in California there are not currently any state-run scholarships to help families afford private school tuition. Privately-run scholarships may be available.
California doesn’t have an official state virtual school, but there are several free, full-time online learning options for students. In California, a fully online school is only allowed to serve students in contiguous counties, not students statewide. Because of this, some education management organizations operate multiple online schools to be able to serve students from across the state. Two of the biggest of these online school “networks” are California Connections Academy and California Virtual Academies.
California has more than 30 online charter schools, giving every California student a fully online option. California Pacific Charter Schools is a free online choice for students in more than a dozen California counties. Meanwhile, Method Online School serves southern California students, and Compass Charter Schools serves Los Angeles, Yolo, San Diego, and surrounding areas.
K-12 students in Ventura, San Bernardino, Kern, and Orange counties can also consider IQ Academy-Los Angeles. While much of the learning is facilitated by technology, this learning program offers in-person field trips and meet-ups as well. Students in grades 9-12 needing additional academic support to overcome obstacles may wish to consider Insight Schools of California.
Additionally, some districts have created their own online schools, like Davis School for Independent Study,West Contra Costa Unified Virtual Academy, El Dorado Union High School District’s Pacific Crest Academy,Elk Grove Unified School District’s Virtual Academy, and Vista Virtual Academy. Students in the district or who have received an interdistrict transfer can apply. Los Angeles Unified School District’s Virtual Academy served nearly 18,000 students during the 2021-2022 school year. In response to the appetite for online options, the district created six new theme-based online schools for the 2022-2023 school year. Each online program has a unique focus, such as computer science or leadership and public service.
You can also choose homeschooling, the process of parents educating students at home. In California, 2.7% of all K-12 students are homeschooled. The state requires notice of your intent to homeschool between October 1 – October 15 of each year if you are homeschooling as a home-based private school. It is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant.
If you choose to homeschool, you are required to teach courses commonly taught in public schools, but specific standardized tests are not required if you are homeschooling as a home-based private school. In general, children who are homeschooled may face roadblocks if they want to participate in public school sports or activities in California, but other sports leagues may be available.
We recently spoke to the Cox Family, a California family that found that homeschooling was the best fit for one of their three children. As mom Erica Cox put it, finding the right school for your child requires being open to thinking outside the box: “If you want your kid to be a successful student, you need to find the right type of school and environment for them to thrive in. Don’t assume because it works for one [student] it will work for the others.”
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California Microschools and Mix-and-Match Learning
Today, many California families are mixing and matching school options to come up with new ways to personalize education. Microschools are one of these ways. A microschool refers to students gathering together in a small group – with adult supervision – to learn, explore, and socialize. Microschools can take a variety of shapes and legal forms, from homeschoolers coming together at an enrichment center to a private school committed to small classrooms. What microschools share in common is a commitment to small-group learning, close-knit relationships, and emphasizing children as individual learners.
Here are just a few examples of the many microschools and innovative learning choices in California:
Silicon Schools “funds the creation of new schools that foster innovation and personalization to discover the next generation of schools in America.” Their grantees include several microschools and other innovative educational initiatives.
Chronos Academy, a microschool in Larkspur, evolved from a cohort program for homeschoolers to a private school with intentionally small classes.
The Players Academy, a network of full-time learning centers that offer hybrid learning for student athletes, is opening locations in Rancho Cordova, West Sacramento, and Walnut Creek.
In Oakland, the Oakland REACH offers virtual learning hubs to help students receive support and academic and social enrichment.
Global Village School is a homeschool/private school hybrid that was founded back in 1999. The school focuses on self-directed distance learning, social justice, and sustainability.
The Open School is a small, self-directed school for creative learners. The Open School has a campus in Santa Ana and a virtual program for non-local families.
Acton Academy Venice Beach is part of that Acton Academy network that primarily emphasizes self-directed learning and entrepreneurial thinking in a collaborative environment.
Praxis Elite offers an innovative middle school curriculum that combines academics and athletics in equal measure.
Julian Charter School is hybrid-style public charter school that serves more than 2,000 students.
Seeds of Love Collective focuses on developing holistic educational pathways in connection with nature. Their Open Wilderness Literacy & Science (OWLS) microschool offers outdoor education with hands-on learning experiences for learners aged 6-11 to cultivate community, friendships, and joy in learning.
Inner Fire Academy provides an intimate and tailored learning environment for homeschoolers and students enrolled in accredited virtual schools, specializing in gifted children aged 8-12 with a focus on customized, engaging education.
Ellemercito Academy is a Los Angeles-based microschool focused on experiential, place-based learning.
Angeles Workshop School is a student-led private school in Los Angeles serving up to just 20 students.
Brightworks in San Francisco is a small school that seeks to foster students’ advocacy and love of learning through project-based experiences.
Remember, microschooling is more a mentality than a specific legal distinction in most cases. Often, a family participates in a microschool while legally homeschooling, or being enrolled in a private or online school.
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Download the School Choice Snapshot for California
Arkansas parents, this post is for you. Each year you face one of the biggest decisions you can ever make for your child: Where they attend school. Knowing all your school choice options in Arkansas can help you select the best fit for your family.
Most families in Arkansas (80.7%) choose traditional public schools for their child. Traditional public schools are free to attend, open to all students, operated by school districts, and funded by federal, state, and local government. Did you know that Arkansas spends about $11,266 per public school pupil each year? You can search your school’s spending and that of nearby schools at Project Nickel.
If you would like to participate in open enrollment, contact your local district. Arkansas law prohibits districts from charging tuition for transfer students, so open enrollment is always free. Generally, transportation is not covered by the school you use open enrollment to select, unless that school district is under facilities distress or a special agreement is made between the receiving and sending districts.
Open enrollment can be a valuable way for you to have options within the public school system; you can visit multiple public schools and decide which is best for your family.
Additionally, you can consider charter schools. In Arkansas, 6.5% of all K-12 students attend a charter school. Charter schools are tuition-free public schools that are allowed extra freedom to innovate with curriculum and learning methods. As of 2023, Arkansas has about 95 public charter schools for parents to choose from.
Each school has a charter which explains the school’s purpose and what specific community need it serves, whether that be providing a language immersion program or offering a rigorous, literacy-based curriculum. If there are more families seeking admittance to a charter school than there are seats, a lottery system is usually used to determine admittance.
In Arkansas there are both conversion schools and open-enrollment schools. Conversion schools are traditional public schools that have converted to charter schools. They usually only serve students within their district. Open-enrollment charter schools are run by a governmental entity, higher learning organization, or non-sectarian organization and can draw students from various districts. In 2023, the LEARNS Act eliminated a cap on the number of charter schools that can be opened by nonprofit organizations in the state, paving the way for more schools.
As the Arkansas Department of Education puts it, “Beyond the two basic types of charters, the concepts put in place by a public charter school are as broad as the imagination.” For one example of what charter schools offer Arkansas families, check out LISA Academy, a system of high-performing STEM charter schools. Another Arkansas charter school we talked to, Founders Classical Academy, makes classical education available to families in a free, public school environment.
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Arkansas Magnet Schools
Magnet schools are another option. These are free public schools that allow kids to narrow in on a specific learning track, such as engineering or the performing arts. A magnet school teaches all subjects through the lenses of that specific track. These might be a good option if your kid learns best by focusing in on a subject he or she is passionate about.
For example, Apple Glen Elementary School, located in Bentonville County, is a “visible learning” school, meaning that learning centers around the students. The students take responsibility for their education through self-evaluation and student-led activities. Some additional examples include Mary Mae Jones Elementary School and Hot Springs Park Magnet, which both offer International Baccalaureate programs.
Private schools are nonpublic schools that charge tuition. There are about 190 private schools across the state of Arkansas. These private schools come in all shapes and forms, from religious schools to schools designed for children with special needs. The average tuition for private schools in the state is $5,910 for elementary schools and $6,689 for high schools.
0.2% of all K-12 students in Arkansas participate in a private school choice program. In 2023, Arkansas created a new scholarship program to help families afford nonpublic learning environments. Families who participate in the Arkansas Children’s Educational Freedom Accounts program can have 90% of their child’s state education funding (about $6,600 in 2023-24) deposited in an online account. Parents can then use that funding to pay for approved expenses, like tuition at an eligible private school.
For 2024-25, the program is open to students with disabilities, homeless students, foster students, first-time kindergarteners, students currently in the Succeed Scholarship program, children of active duty military personnel and veterans, children of first responders, and students enrolled in the previous school year in D or F-rated public schools or Level 5 Intensive support school districts. Eligibility to apply will expand to any Arkansas student by 2025! Find all the details in our Arkansas LEARNS Act Explainer.
There are many reasons to give online learning a try, from sports schedules to bullying issues to medical needs. Arkansas offers several free, full-time online learning options for students, like Arkansas Connections Academy and Arkansas Virtual Academy. These are multi-district, fully online options. More options are launching too: Two additional statewide virtual charter schools have been approved to open, and several more are in the pipeline for approval.
For part-time classes, Virtual Arkansas offers online options for any Arkansas student, though online classes for students in grades K-6 are limited. Students enrolled in a public school can take all or some of their Virtual Arkansas classes online. While Virtual Arkansas’ website lists fees for courses, the local school district pays those, not students and their families.
Parents can also choose homeschooling! Homeschooling is the process of parents educating students at home. As both technology and school choices have spread in Arkansas, homeschooling is an increasingly popular choice.
In Arkansas, 4.9% of all K-12 students are homeschooled. The state requires notice of your intent to homeschool your child by August 15 of each school year. If you are making the decision to homeschool mid-year, you must provide notice 5 days prior to withdrawing. In the case that you move, you must file your notice to homeschool within 30 days of establishing residency at your new location.
You are not required to teach specific subjects or use specific standardized tests if you choose to homeschool in Arkansas. Your child might still be eligible to participate in sports, activities, or classes at the local public school, though restrictions may apply. Additionally, homeschooled students with disabilities in Arkansas may be eligible to access special education services from their local school districts.
In the case that you want to switch back to public school, the school will require a transcript with courses taken and grades, as well as a portfolio, for placement into classes.
In 2023, Arkansas created a new scholarship program to help families afford nonpublic learning environments. By 2025, homeschoolers will be able to opt into the Arkansas Children’s Educational Freedom Account program and keep homeschooling, using the program funding for their approved homeschool curriculum. Just keep in mind that homeschoolers who participate in the Educational Freedom Account program will be required to take an annual test and may need to meet additional requirements that other homeschoolers statewide are not obliged to meet.
Today, many Arkansas families are mixing and matching school options to come up with new ways to personalize education. Microschools are one of these ways. A microschool refers to students gathering together in a small group – with adult supervision – to learn, explore, and socialize. Microschools can take a variety of shapes and legal forms, from homeschoolers coming together at an enrichment center to a private school committed to small classrooms. What microschools share in common is a commitment to small-group learning, close-knit relationships, and emphasizing children as individual learners.
Here are a few examples of innovative learning options in Arkansas:
ACRES is a new microschool opening in Brookland in fall 2023. Families will register as homeschoolers but come together for mixed-age learning with a Socratic style.
The Decker School in central Arkansas reimagines education through child-led exploration. Families can enroll part-time as homeschoolers, or participate in a full-time program.
Arkansas’ new Educational Freedom Account, which is phasing in over the next two years, will provide participating families with flexible funding that can be used for private school expenses, tutoring, and more.
Remember, microschooling is more a mentality than a specific legal distinction in most cases. Often, a family participates in a microschool while legally homeschooling, or being enrolled in a private or online school.
If you live in Arizona, you have access to more K-12 education options than you might realize. Navigating these options can help you find a school where your child thrives, but it can also feel overwhelming. This guide will breakdown the main types of school choice in Arizona, as well as provide additional education resources.
Interested in learning more about Arizona’s ESA program? Check out our deep dive blog on the Empowerment Scholarship Account program and Arizona School Choice.
Most children in Arizona (68.3%) attend traditional public schools. Traditional public schools are free to attend, open to all students, operated by school districts, and funded by taxpayers like you. Arizona spends an average of $9,611 per public school pupil each year. You can search your school’s spending and that of nearby schools at Project Nickel.
Arizona has unrestricted open enrollment for public school. What this means is that you can send your child to any public school in Arizona, regardless of where you live or where the school is located, as long as the school has capacity. Each district’s open enrollment policies must be available in English and Spanish, and must include transportation provisions. These include transportation up to about 20 miles each way for students with a disability or IEP, and can include other students, too. For example, you can read about the open enrollment process in the Scottsdale Unified School District.
Arizona has a law prohibiting public schools from charging tuition for transfer students, so this option is always free. You can take advantage of open enrollment by visiting multiple public schools near you and discovering which is the best fit for your family. Traditional public schools may differ in learning methods and one may just “feel different” than another to you.
For example, one traditional public school in Arizona we talked to, Coyote Springs Elementary School, has a unique focus on “authenticity in learning.” Pamela Clark, the school’s instructional specialist, shared one of the school’s cool practices for the beginning of the school year. It’s called “two for ten.” She said, “We want everyone on campus to spend ten minutes with a child for a couple of weeks just getting to know them, talking about things other than school, and every person on campus participates, including teachers, custodians, the cafeteria staff.”
Charter schools are tuition-free public schools that have extra freedom to innovate with curriculum and learning methods. Arizona has more than 500 charter schools that parents can choose from. In fact, at least 84% of Arizona students have access to at least one charter in their area.
Each school has a charter which explains the school’s purpose and what specific community need it serves. For example, Arizona Autism Charter School focuses on the educational needs of children with autism, while others may focus on language immersion or mathematics. If there are more families seeking admittance to a charter school than there are seats, a lottery system is usually used to determine admittance.
We recently interviewed one of Arizona’s very first charter schools, Benjamin Franklin Charter School. When we asked the charter school’s Director of Education, Diana Dana, what makes her school unique, here’s what she shared: “Because we are not restricted by boundaries, we are able to welcome any family that is looking for something more than what their neighborhood school offers in a caring, wholesome environment. Many parents choose to be a part of something special with us because we provide an ‘A’ rated education and family-friendly amenities such as affordable before- and after- school childcare and free school supplies. We take pride in removing barriers to an excellent, tuition-free education.”
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Arizona Magnet Schools
You can also choose magnet schools. These free public schools allow kids to narrow in on a specific learning track, such as health sciences or the performing arts. At a magnet school, all subjects are taught through the lenses of that specific track. These might be a good option if your kid learns best by focusing in on a subject he or she is passionate about!
There are many magnet school options in Arizona. For instance, the Tucson Unified School District in Arizona currently lists twelve magnet schools. These include schools that focus on communication arts, dual language, Montessori, and gifted study. Meanwhile, in Goodyear, Centerra Mirage STEM Academy is a magnet school focusing on hands-on STEM learning and enrichment. And, Gallego Primary K-3 Fine Arts Magnet School in the Sunnyside Unified School District focuses on art and creativity.
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Arizona Private Schools
You probably know that private schools are nonpublic schools that charge tuition. But did you know that, since 2018, the federal government has allowed parents to save for K-12 private school tuition using tax-preferred 529 savings accounts?
There are more than 450 private schools across the state of Arizona. These private schools come in all shapes and forms, from religious schools to schools designed for children with special needs. Arizona’s Gateway Academy, for example, a private school located in Scottsdale, is providing an inspiring education for students with autism spectrum disorders.
The average tuition for private schools in Arizona is $9,619 for elementary schools and $13,766 for high schools. There are currently five state-run scholarship programs, which can help families afford private school tuition. One of these is the nation’s very first tax-credit scholarship program, enacted in 1997. All K-12 students interested in choosing private school are eligible to apply for aid. Arizona launched another individual income tax-credit scholarship program in 2012. Arizona also offers a tax-credit scholarship program focusing on scholarships for low-income children. Fourth, “Lexie’s Law” provides tax-credit scholarships for students with special needs.
Finally, Arizona has an Empowerment Scholarship Accounts program that was adapted in 2022 to expand eligibility to all Arizona students. Participating families can receive scholarships of about $7,000 or more for qualifying educational expenses, including private school tuition, online education, tutoring, transportation, and education therapy. As of 2024, 9.8% of Arizona students are participating in this popular program.
In order for funding to transfer to one of these schools, families switching to an online school may need to initiate withdrawal from their previous school. You can learn more about the online school community in your state at AZ Parents for Education.
Homeschooling is another school option in all 50 states. Homeschooling is the process of parents educating students at home and allows for highly customizable education. 3.4% of all K-12 students are homeschooled. If you homeschool in Arizona, your student might still be eligible to participate in sports or classes at your local public school!
If you move to a new county during the school year, you must file a letter of termination, then submit a new notice of your intent to homeschool in the county you moved to. In the case that you want to switch back to public school, you must file a letter of termination.
Keep in mind that Arizona has a funding assistance program called the Empowerment Scholarship Account program that can help make homeschooling more affordable for families.
Increasingly, Arizona families are mixing and matching school options to come up with new ways to personalize education. Microschools are one of these ways. A microschool refers to students gathering together in a small group – with adult supervision – to learn, explore, and socialize. Microschools can take a variety of shapes and legal forms, from homeschoolers coming together at an enrichment center to a private school committed to small classrooms. What microschools share in common is a commitment to small-group learning, close-knit relationships, and emphasizing children as individual learners.
Here are just a few examples of the many microschools and nontraditional learning choices for families in Arizona:
Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account provides participating families with education funding that can be used flexibly for approved learning expenses, like private school tuition, home education, tutoring, and more.
Prenda Microschools offers tuition-free learning pod options for families through a partnership with accredited online schools in Arizona.
Endeavor Academy is a microschool situated in Mesa that follows an in-home approach to education.
Baker Creek Academy is a small, collaborative, student-driven school in Eagar that prioritizes community.
Great Hearts Online has piloted a microschool program where families can enroll in the classical online school but receive in-person learning support.
Public online schools like ASU Prep and Sequoia Choice have launched learning-pod-like models where students work on their online school curriculum in person together a few days a week.
KaiPod Learning offers learning pods for both homeschoolers and students enrolled in accredited virtual schools.
Based in Phoenix, Spark Community Schools offers small classroom-style learning to grades K-8.
The Black Mothers Forum has launched at least five microschools in Arizona, specifically geared toward meeting the needs of minority communities and their families.
Adamo education combines in-person instruction in small microschooling environments with digital learning.
Primer is a microschooling network with schools in Scottsdale and South Tempe.
Kino School is an example of a small, innovative private school with mixed-age learning focused on student interests. While it’s been around since the 1970s, it shares some of the characteristics of microschools today.
iCubed Learning provides personalized learning pods for homeschoolers, online students, and those enrolled in hybrid programs, offering one-on-one teaching experiences with certified educators.
Trinity Arch Preparatory School for Boys offers a tailored learning pod environment focusing on a liberal arts education and character development in a Christian, boys-only setting.
Arizona State University offers a year-long fellowship that families can apply for if they’re interested in starting their own microschool.
Remember, microschooling is more a mentality than a specific legal distinction in most cases. Often, a family participates in a microschool while legally homeschooling, or being enrolled in a private or online school.
If you live in Alaska and are making a decision about K-12 education for your child, this post is for you. Where you send your child to school is one of the most impactful decisions you can make, but you’re not alone in it. Thousands of Alaska parents make school choices each year. And remember, each child is unique. So, the “best” school for your child may look different than the “best” school for your neighbor’s child.
Looking for special education options? You can learn what special education services are available in Alaska at the Ultimate Guide to Special Education.
By far, most families in Alaska (68.8%) and around the country choose traditional public school. Traditional public schools are free to attend, open to all students, operated by school districts, and funded by federal, state, and local government.
Did you know that Alaska spends an average of $19,540 per pupil in public school? You can search your school’s spending and that of nearby schools at Project Nickel.
Alaska has limited open enrollment laws for public schools. What this means is that parents of students who are assigned to a particular neighborhood school may in some cases be able to transfer their children to another school in their district. For example, the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District has an online application portal where families can apply to a school outside their zoned “attendance area.” In other cases, children may be required to attend the school assigned to them by their district.
Open enrollment is an important way that parents have access to a broader variety of public schools. Find out more about public schools in your state at the Alaska Department of Education & Early Development and contact your school district to learn about your open enrollment options. You can also learn more about Alaska’s open enrollment options in this 50-state report.
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Alaska Charter Schools
Depending on where you live in Alaska, public charter schools may be another public school option available to you. Like traditional public schools, charter schools are public, free, and usually have no requirements for entry. What distinguishes charter schools is that they have extra freedom to innovate with learning methods and are accountable to authorizers for results.
Alaska passed charter school legislation in 1995 and currently has more than 30 charter schools that serve more than 7,000 (5.8%) students. Each school has a charter which explains the school’s purpose and what specific community need it serves. For example, one of Alaska’s newest charter schools is Knik Cultural School, which offers Alaska Native culture and values-based learning opportunities, such as fishing, moose hunting, and berry picking! If there are more families seeking admittance to a charter school than there are seats, a good old-fashioned lottery system is typically used to determine admittance.
A third free, public school option is found in Alaska’s magnet schools. Magnet schools allow kids to narrow in on a specific learning track, such as engineering or the performing arts. Magnet schools teach all subjects through the lenses of their specific track. In Alaska, 12.2% of all K-12 students attend a public magnet school.
Alaska has a handful of magnet schools scattered throughout the state. For example, Barnette Magnet School, located in the Fairbanks North Star Borough District, describes its offering this way: “Barnette’s magnet or ‘draw’ is a combination of: small exploration classes, a community-based Friday in Fairbanks Program, and quarterly all-school Exhibit Nights. These are the elements of the school that set it apart from other schools and make the Magnet School experience a rewarding one for both students and parents.”
Families in Alaska can also consider private schools, nonpublic schools that charge tuition. Private schools may offer a unique curriculum, smaller class sizes, or a faith-based tradition. Overall, there are more than 50 private schools across the state of Alaska serving 3.1% of all K-12 students. These private schools come in all shapes and forms, from religious schools to schools designed for children with special needs. The average tuition for private schools in your state is $7,154 for elementary schools and $6,881 for high schools.
Unfortunately, there are no state-run scholarship options in Alaska at present, but private scholarships may be available. Additionally, Alaska has a funding assistance program that can make some private school courses more affordable for families. Essentially, the state sets aside funds in the form of an annual allotment for students enrolled in a state-funded correspondence program. Families can then use their student allotment to request reimbursements for approved educational expenses. Currently, this may include courses at private schools (though not full-time tuition).
Whether your child wants to accelerate learning or needs a quieter environment in which to focus, you may be interested in giving virtual school a try. Of course, virtual school is different and may feel like “drinking from a fire hose” at first, but for many families it becomes the perfect fit. Alaska doesn’t offer any statewide online schools or multi-district online schools, but families can consider national online learning programs, like Virtual Learning Academy Charter School, The Keystone School, and Laurel Springs School, for a fee.
On the district level, middle- and high-school students in Ketchikan Gateway Borough School District can enroll in online courses through the Alaska Digital Academy. Plus, the ASD Virtual Program offers a free, fully online home learning program that Anchorage families can choose through their neighborhood or choice school. The virtual learning program is staffed by Anchorage School District teachers and allows families to maintain a connection to their local school. The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District also offers online options for grades 6-12, and you can always ask your district about whether an online program is available to you.
In 2022, the Alaska legislature approved a new virtual education consortium. Once established, this will provide a library of virtual classes available to Alaska students. Additionally, Alaska has many correspondence school offerings, some of which are free, that families can choose from.
Alaska parents can also choose homeschooling, which sets a high bar for flexibility and customization for education. Homeschooling is the process of parents educating students at home and is an option in all 50 states.
In Alaska, 10.3% of all K-12 students are homeschooled. The state only requires notice of your intent to homeschool if you are homeschooling as a religious private school. If so, you will need to provide notice by the first day of school. Of course, it is recommended that you formally withdraw from your current school so that your student is not marked truant. If you decide to switch back to public school, a portfolio of work or assessments will be used for placement.
You are not required to teach specific subjects or use specific standardized tests if you choose to homeschool in Alaska. If you homeschool, your child might still be eligible to participate in sports or activities at local public schools – reach out to your district to learn more.
Alaska stands out among the states for its flexible funding assistance program available to many homeschoolers! Essentially, the state sets aside funds in the form of an annual allotment for students (including homeschoolers) enrolled in one of more than 30 state-funded correspondence programs. According to Alaska’s Department of Education & Early Development, “This allotment can pay for items such as a student’s books, classes, school supplies, technology support, tutoring, music or activity lessons, and other items related to the student’s education.”
Today, many Alaska families are mixing and matching school options to come up with new ways to personalize education. Microschools are one of these ways. A microschool refers to students gathering together in a small group – with adult supervision – to learn, explore, and socialize. Microschools can take a variety of shapes and legal forms, from homeschoolers coming together at an enrichment center to a private school committed to small classrooms. What microschools share in common is a commitment to small-group learning, close-knit relationships, and emphasizing children as individual learners.
Here is one example of a microschool started by homeschoolers in Alaska: The Green Room in East Anchorage is a learning community offering in-person classes for homeschoolers, from chemistry to wholeness and health classes.
Remember, microschooling is more a mentality than a specific legal distinction in most cases. Often, a family participates in a microschool while legally homeschooling, or being enrolled in a private or online school.
K-12 education in America is experiencing a once-in-a-generation transformation, as tens of millions of parents rethink their children’s education and make crucial decisions about how and where their children learn. From exploring their school choice options to expressing interest in nontraditional learning models, parents are eager to find better or supplementary learning environments for their children. Parents don’t see this a dichotomous; a majority of them are open to change even as two thirds of all parents (67.9 percent) remain largely satisfied with the schools their children attend.
What do we mean by rethinking? Parents choosing new schools, parents considering options more frequently, and parents seeking to round out their children’s education by thinking outside the box and exploring new or nontraditional learning options.
These trends are led by Black and Hispanic parents, who are significantly more likely to explore the education options available for their children than white parents. Young millennial parents – those between the ages of 18 and 29 – are also rethinking their children’s K-12 education in overwhelming numbers.
These findings are from two census-balanced surveys of a combined 3,820 U.S. parents of school-aged children, conducted from January 3-6, 2023.
Half of all parents considered or are considering choosing new schools for their children.
At any point in the past year, did you think about, consider, search for, or choose a new or different school or learning environment for any of the school-aged children in your household? (N=3,820)
TOTAL
AGE
RACE OR ETHNICITY
18-29
30-44
45-60
> 60
Black or African American
Hispanic or
Latino
White
(Non-Hispanic)
Yes
53.7%
63.3%
55.7%
49.7%
42.5%
64.5%
64.6%
46.2%
No
46.3%
36.7%
44.3%
50.3%
57.5%
35.5%
35.4%
53.8%
16.6 percent of all parents chose new schools for their children within the past year, 11.3 percent considered new schools, and 25.8 percent are currently considering new schools.
In total, 53.7 percent of parents considered or are considering choosing a new school.
Black, Hispanic, and young millennial parents were most likely to consider new schools.
Do you think that your community offers the right number of schooling options for parents to consider for their children, not enough options, or too many options? (N=1,651)
TOTAL
AGE
RACE OR ETHNICITY
18-29
30-44
45-60
> 60
Black or African American
Hispanic or
Latino
White
(Non-Hispanic)
The
right amount of options
48.3%
39.8%
49.1%
51.3%
58.3%
50.4%
43.5%
51.9%
Not enough options
48.1%
53.4%
47.8%
46.2%
39.7%
45.3%
52.8%
45.2%
Too many options
3.7%
6.8%
3.1%
2.5%
1.9%
4.3%
3.7%
2.9%
64.5 percent of Black parents and 64.6 percent of Hispanic parents considered new schools for their children, compared with 46.2 percent of white parents.
63.3 percent of parents aged 18-29 explored, are exploring, or plan to explore school choice options for their children, compared with 55.7 percent of parents aged 30-44, 49.7 percent of parents aged 45-60, and 42.5 percent of parents over the age of 60.
Parents considered a wide variety of education options for their children.
Which of the following statements best describes your view of the different options that may be available for your children’s education? (N=1,651)
TOTAL
AGE
RACE OR ETHNICITY
18-29
30-44
45-60
> 60
Black or African American
Hispanic or
Latino
White
(Non-Hispanic)
I wish
I had more information about the schooling options available for my children.
64.7%
75.3%
65.1%
58.8%
56.4%
71.2%
75.7%
57.7%
I have all the information I need about the schooling options
available for my children.
35.3%
24.7%
34.9%
41.2%
43.6%
28.8%
24.3%
42.3%
Nearly half of parents (45.6 percent) said they considered traditional public schools within their neighborhoods, while 38.2 percent considered public schools outside of their district or zones.
31.5 percent of parents considered public charter schools, 29.1 percent considered private or faith-based schools, 22.9 percent considered homeschooling, 20.8 percent considered full-time online schooling, and 4 percent considered microschooling or pod learning.
Half of parents want more options for their children’s education, and most parents want more information about school choice options.
48.1 percent of parents, including majorities of Hispanic parents (52.8 percent) and young millennial parents (53.4 percent), said their community does not offer enough education options for families. Only 3.7 percent of all parents said their community offers too many education options.
64.7 percent of parents, including 75.7 percent of Hispanic parents, 71.2 percent of Black parents, and 75.3 percent of young millennial parents, said they “wish they had more information about the schooling options available for [their] children.”
As we talk about school choice, we cannot forget the importance schools play in decisions over buying or renting homes – or ignore the demand for nontraditional options.
68 percent of parents said that when choosing to rent or purchase a residence, it was important for them to find a residence within a specific school district or school zone.
At 74.4 percent, suburban parents were most likely to indicate that a school zone or district was important in their home choice, and 39.6 percent described it as “very important.”
More than a third of parents (35 percent) said their children had pursued out-of-school learning projects in cooperation with other families, including microschooling and pod learning. Black parents (48 percent), Hispanic parents (38.2 percent), and young millennial parents (38.4 percent) were among the most likely to indicate that their children had pursued out-of-school learning projects.
Head to Conoce tus Opciones Escolares‘ site to find our survey analysis in Spanish with focused insights on Hispanic and Latino parents. Find out more about National School Choice Week or how school choice works. If you’re a journalist covering education issues, we invite you to check out our coverage resources.
Teachers play a crucial role in the success of every student. Their continuous dedication knows no bounds as they guide, support, and inspire students to reach their full potential across the nation––which is more than deserving of a celebration!
Teacher Appreciation Week, which lands on May 6-10, is the perfect opportunity to show your gratitude for all the hard work that teachers do. While there are tons of ideas on the web on how to thank a teacher, we have compiled a list of some fun, easy teacher appreciation gift ideas!
This week, we appreciate the things – some big and some small – that so many teachers do every day to help kids. Often, these things are outside of any written job description, but these actions build bonds of trust between educators and families that help facilitate learning.
As it gets later in the school year and markers begin to dry out, supplies are a great way to show your appreciation for all that teachers do! But, do you know what is better than supplies? A supply cake! This is a great way to turn ordinary school supplies into a fun appreciation gift; and, it is super easy to make. We also have #schoolchoice supply gift tags to enhance your cake decorating skills.
Are you looking for a more sentimental way to thank a teacher? Nothing shows your appreciation more than giving a ‘Best Teacher Award’! These awards are a fantastic way to get your child more involved in the Teacher Appreciation Week celebration and are for those who want a more personalized touch.
The true key to unlocking anyone’s heart is food! Food is a simple yet thoughtful way to show your appreciation for all that teachers do. Add one of our food-inspired gift tags to your present to make this gift even sweeter!
Gift cards are great tokens of appreciation! They are versatile – practically any business accepts gift cards – and, with our custom National School Choice Week gift card holders, they make the perfect gift for teachers!
One of the things teachers love most is hearing from their students just how much of an impact they have had – and what better way to do this than with a poem? Whether you rhyme your words, create a haiku, or use the acrostic template below, your teacher is sure to cherish your words for years to come.
Thank you cards first started being sent in the United States in 1840 – thanks to the postage stamp! This method has been around for decades for a reason- it’s a fantastic way to let someone know you appreciate them. This teacher appreciation week, join students across the country in letting teachers know how thankful we are for them.
PS: No printer? No problem! Take a screenshot of the thank you image below, add text onto the image with your phone’s photo editor, and share it with your teacher! If you post it to social media, be sure to use #schoolchoice.
7. Specialized Thank You’s
A simple “thank you” truly goes a long way, but we’ve got some creative ways to give the message a little more ‘umph’.
Social media posts are a fun, simple way to let the world know how much you appreciate your teacher! If you want, you can add personal photos or handwritten notes to the post. We have put together some shareable graphics that you can use to let others know you are celebrating:
A car parade is a cost-effective way to go big for the Teacher Appreciation Week celebration. With washable window markers or chalk markers, you can write kind messages on your car for teachers to read when you arrive at school. The best part about this gift idea is that you can ask other parents to join your parade!
Did you use any of these easy teacher appreciation gift ideas? We’d love to see! Share them on your favorite social media channel using #schoolchoice.
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How to Find Free Tutoring and Homework Help Near You
As parents navigating the ever-changing landscape of education, we understand the importance of providing your children with every opportunity to excel. Whether you’re supporting your child’s academic journey, helping them prepare for exams, or encouraging them to explore new skills, the internet has evolved into a treasure trove of free tutoring resources near you that can be a game-changer.
In essence, this guide will help you navigate the sea of free tutoring resources, giving you the tools to steer your child’s education towards success.
Table of Contents
How to Find Free Tutoring
If you know the right places to look, you can easily keep tabs on tutoring options in your community. We’ll walk you through a few places you can quickly search for options. You can also jump straight to our lists below for some of the national and state-specific tutoring options available at no cost to families.
Among the most common places you can find free tutoring are libraries, YMCAs, and Boys & Girls Clubs. Checking the websites or calling your local branches of these organizations can help you locate in-person homework help, tutoring, and sometimes even mentoring.
You’ll also want to check with your current school and district to ask whether they can arrange free tutoring for your child. Many offer in-school tutoring and some partner with nearby colleges or universities where undergraduate students offer homework assistance for K-12 students.
As a bit of background context, under the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act from 2002-2015, low-performing and low-income schools were required by law to offer free tutoring services to eligible children. Today, under the Every Student Succeeds Act, it is up to states and schools to decide whether to offer free tutoring. Many schools have decided to continue to offer tutoring services and maintain their partnerships with tutoring providers.
Additionally, you can search for stand-alone tutoring non-profits by Googling your city and “free tutoring.” Many college and even high school students were inspired to start local tutoring initiatives during the pandemic, and some of those remain active and thriving.
Finally, don’t discount the value of in-person learning assistance from your own personal network. Do you have a friend or family member who may be able to provide homework help for your student?
Does Tutoring Work?
But hold on, does tutoring even work? Well, the short answer is yes! Many parents, educators, and researchers attest that tutoring can have tangible benefits for kids’ learning. For example, researchers writing for the Brookings Institute called tutoring “remarkably effective at helping students learn,” and said that “tutoring can reliably help students catch up.” As they go on to describe, the impact of tutoring can be more or less effective depending on who is doing the tutoring, what grade level the student is in, and other factors.
Tutoring is generally defined as one-on-one or small group class. According to that definition, the University of Toronto, Wilfrid Laurier University, and the Diversity Institute at Ryerson University, studied the impact of academic gaps during the pandemic and the effects of tutoring. According to this research, it is important to understand tutoring as a complementary effort, distinct from learning in the classroom. Most evidence in this study focuses on literacy programs for young children, but there is strong positive evidence of tutoring’s effectiveness in middle and high school, especially in math.
However, the evidence for online tutoring is mixed and still emerging. This is an area that requires more research, however, two new research from Spain and Italy offer encouraging signs that tutoring online can work to help children complete unfinished learning.
MITfound that tutoring programs show positive impacts on learning processes and are beneficial for students. Also, a recent pilot program, implemented by California University, evaluated the results of online tutoring for K-12 students and the results have shown positive results.
Of course, every child is unique. Not every tutoring resource may work well for your child. If an online tutoring experience makes your student uncomfortable, for example, you may want to evaluate whether your library or a family friend can offer in-person homework help instead.
How to know if my child needs Tutoring?
Every child is different, however, the most obvious way to identify if your child needs support is if there is a change in the usual grades your kid use to have. Is your kid failing in all classes or a specific one? There are so many factors that could influence your child’s academic performance; the environment, mental health, distractions, health problems, or difficulty learning specific topics. But don’t worry! All of this is normal and it is important to access the tools that are out there to help your child.
Other signs parents should pay attention to is if your child is having trouble organizing the assignments, experiencing anxiety about going to school, melting down over homework or spending too much time on assignments. All of this could be a clear sign of the student encountering challenges and it’s important to take actions and find solutions.
With everything students (as well as parents and educators) have faced in the last few years, it’s particularly important to identify when your child may need tutoring support. Luckily, we’ve rounded up options for free tutoring in your state.
Tips for Using Free Tutoring
If you decide to use free tutoring, keep in mind that tutoring groups differ in the subjects they cover and approaches they use. Some are small group sessions while others are one-on-one. Some are online or hotlines while others are in-person. Some have learning games and tools they provide for students, while others require students to bring their homework and specific questions.
To make the most of the tutoring experience, help your student prepare well. Work with your student to identify what topic or subject they’d like extra help in and write down questions in advance, if possible. If you are using an online platform like Zoom for the tutoring session, double-check that the technology is working before the meeting so that your student can make the most of their time with the tutor.
Experts recommend that before seeking a tutor, it’s a good idea to connect with your child’s teacher to identify the issues they think need work. Other recommendations involve creating a comfortable space to ensure your child has a space without distractions for their tutoring sessions. Also, stay involved in the process; ask about your student’s progress and how you can help at home to obtain better results. On other hand, not all tutoring modalities or tutors are a good fit for all kids, so it is important to maintain open communication with your child.
Also remember that each tutoring organization has its own requirements for tutors. Many, but not all, require background checks. If child safety policies are not listed on a tutoring program’s website, you can always ask for a copy of these policies.
Finally, some tutoring groups are staffed specifically by trained teachers or by college students, while high schoolers or even middle schoolers participate as tutors in other cases. Don’t write off homework help just because it isn’t from someone with a graduate degree! Instead, focus on finding a tutor who can explain and practice concepts well with your child.
“One of the things that makes it easier to be a tutor than to be a classroom teacher is that you’re doing a specific task with kids with materials that are designed to support that. A much broader range of people can do that… Classroom teaching is a much more complicated job.”
Bored of Boredom: Bored of Boredom is a Los Angeles-based, student-led tutoring service for kids in grades K-8. It operates nationwide and has even had international students use its resources.
Learn to Be: Learn to Be is a national nonprofit that uses a pay what you can model to act as a free or affordable option for all families. Learn to Be offers 1:1 online tutoring in all K-12 subjects. Students can bring the school work or topics they are struggling with and receive personal support.
Pandemic Professors: Pandemic Professors serves K-12 students in more than 15 states and counting. The online tutoring non-profit primarily serves students (for free) from low-income communities.
Schoolhouse.world:Founded by Sal Khan of the acclaimed Khan Academy, Schoolhouse.world is a platform for free, online, peer-to-peer tutoring. Students can receive live help in sessions with 1-10 students. Currently, Schoolhouse’s classes center around math and SAT Prep and are available to students nationwide who are at least 13 years old.
UPchieve: UPchieve is a non-profit that provides free online 1:1 high school tutoring to those who need it. Tutoring is currently available in math, science, reading & writing, SAT and college prep. The organization’s goal? To scale Upchieve to all 8 million low-income high school students in the U.S. by 2030!
Varsity Tutors: Varsity Tutors offers large group classes online for free, including classes on elementary reading and phonics to help students become more independent readers. Varsity Tutors also offers 1:1 individualized tutoring for a fee. Click the “Free” filter to search exclusively for free offerings.
Wave Learning Festival: Wave Tutoring is a free tutoring program that takes place via Zoom. Students can bring questions to free sessions in math, science, language, or humanities and have them answered by veteran tutors.
425 Tutoring: Founded in Seattle, 425 Tutoring is a free, student-led tutoring service with tutors across the country. Talented high school students provide group tutoring sessions in math, English, and other subjects for K-6 students over Zoom or Google Meet.
Tutor.com for U.S. Military Families: Service members, civilian personnel, and their dependents can receive free online tutoring, wherever they live. This program is a partnership with Tutor.com that provides military-connected students with online homework help 24/7.
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State-specific Free Tutoring
Click on your state on the map to learn about options near you. Please note: This is not an exhaustive list of state options. Rather, it offers a sampling of available options and suggestions for where to discover more.
Alabama:
Statewide:Homework Alabama provides free online tutoring through Tutor.com for all Alabama students in grades K-12. Homework Alabama is available through local public libraries throughout the state. Learning Express Library is another statewide online homework help option with test practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Jacksonville: The Teaching / Learning Center at Jacksonville State University gives teacher candidates firsthand experience while helping local students with their tutoring needs. Elementary and secondary students can receive 1-4 hours of free, one-to-one tutoring per semester week with teacher candidates.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Alaska:
Statewide: Live Homework Help provides free online tutoring through Tutor.com for all Alaska students in grades K-12. Live Homework Help is available through local public libraries across the state.Learning Express Library is another free, statewide online homework help option with test practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Arizona:
Statewide:Learning Express Library is a free online homework help option with test practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science. Varsity Tutors offers free tutoring services to eligible K-12 students through Arizona’s Achievement Program.
Tucson / Pima County:Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring. It is available through local library branches.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Arkansas:
Statewide:Arkansas Tutoring Corps offers free tutoring during the school year through qualified schools in Arkansas. As of 2023, Arkansas has passed the LEARNS Act that allows families to use state funding to pay for qualifying educational expenses including tutoring services.
Central Arkansas Library System: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
California:
Statewide: Harvey Mudd College operates a Homework Hotline during the school year to help students with math and science questions. The Homework Hotline welcomes callers from any city and county in the state of California. A third statewide option is MasteryHour. Founded by a teacher, MasteryHour provides free, online math tutoring for K-12 students, led by volunteer students from top colleges and universities. Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring through your local library.
Bakersfield:Do the Math California allows students to call a hotline or email their math questions for free academic support.
Los Angeles County Library:Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Napa County Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
San Diego Public Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Southern California:School on Wheels provides one-on-one online tutoring for families experiencing homelessness or students living in a group home.
Torrance Public Library:Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Colorado:
Statewide:Tutors 4 Change offers tutoring in subjects such as math, science, english, history, and SAT/ACT Math. The suggested “payment” is 99 cents per hour, as the nonprofit’s mission to provide everyone with affordable access to a good education.
Boulder Public Library and Boulder Valley School District students: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Jefferson County Public Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Longmont Library:Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Connecticut:
Bridgeport, Waterbury, and Hartford Area: Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multi-sensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Greater New Haven Area: New Haven Reads offers free, one-on-one literacy tutoring to any student in grades 1-12 who is struggling with reading.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Delaware:
Delaware County Libraries:Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Florida:
Statewide: As of 2023, Florida has since unveiled the Family Empowerment Scholarship that that allows families to use state funding to pay for qualifying educational expenses including tutoring services.
Broward County Library:Live Tutoring is available for students in grades K-12, in both English and Spanish.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Georgia:
Statewide:GA Tutors offers free 1:1 online tutoring in math, science, language arts, and social studies.
Metro Atlanta Area (Fulton County Public Library, Atlanta Public Schools, Cobb County Public Library):Fulton County Library System offers free tutoring resources for students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Hawaii:
Statewide: The Online Learning Academy at the University of Hawaii at Manoa provides free online math and science tutoring for Hawaii public school students in grades K-12. Hawai’i Tutoring provides year-round tutoring services to students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Idaho:
Boise Public Library: Learning Express Library is a free online homework help option with test practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Twin Falls Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Illinois:
Danville, Chicago, LaGrange, Freeport, Palatine, Collinsville, Springfield: Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multisensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Elmwood Park Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Indiana:
Statewide: AskRose Homework Help serves students in grades 6-12 in math and science tutoring.
Indianapolis: Children’s Dyslexia Center provides free, high-quality reading and multisensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Iowa:
Bettendorf Public Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
West Des Moines Public Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Kansas:
Hays Public Library: Hays Public Library has partnered with Fort Hays State University to offer tutoring services to students of all ages.
Kansas City:The Learning Club offers in-person homework help with one-on-one volunteer tutoring. Students are primarily in grades 1-6, but can be older. Also, families in the Kansas City area can access Brainfuse through the Kansas City Public Library. Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
“Although virtual tutoring may not be quite as effective as in-person sessions, the positive results point to a potential solution to the growing educational gap.”
Boone County Public Library: Learning Express Library is a free online homework help option with test practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Jessamine County Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12. Learning Express Library is another free online homework help option with test practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Lexington Public Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring. Learning Express Library is another free online homework help option with test practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Scott County Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Louisiana:
Statewide:Homework LA provides free online tutoring through Tutor.com for all Louisiana students in grades K-12. Homework LA is available through local public libraries throughout the state.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Maine:
Bangor, Portland: Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multisensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Maryland:
Baltimore:The Dyslexia Tutoring Program offers free, one-on-one tutoring to eligible low-income children in reading, writing, and spelling. Also, families in the Baltimore area can access Brainfuse through the Baltimore County Public Library. Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Massachusetts:
Statewide: School on Wheels provides one-on-one online tutoring for Massachusetts families experiencing homelessness or students living in a group home.
Boston Public Library: This library offers free homework help to students in grades K-8. Homework help is provided by high-achieving high school students. Learning Express Library is another free online homework help option with test practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Boston North, Central Massachusetts, and Greater Boston: Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multisensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Michigan:
Statewide: GVSU K-12 Connect Virtual Tutoring offers free, virtual one on one tutoring and homework support for students in grades K-12.
Ann Arbor District Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Canton Public Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Great Lakes Bay Region; Southeastern Michigan:Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multisensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Highland Township Public Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Novi: Connect Me provides free online test preparation, help with skipped topics due to COVID-19, and general tutoring for low-income students and students with essential worker parents.
Waterford Public Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Minnesota:
Hennepin County Library:Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Saint Paul Public Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Mississippi:
Madison County Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Missouri:
Midcontinent Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Scenic Regional Library:Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
St. Louis County Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
University City Public Library:Free tutoring and homework help is available through this library. Tutoring is provided by student members of the National Society of Black Engineers.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Montana:
Bozeman Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Omaha Public Libraries: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Nevada:
Las Vegas Clark County Library District: Homework HelpNow by Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Las Vegas Clark County Area: Andson Academies offers free after-school tutoring and homework help for students in grades K-12. Tutoring is delivered by licensed school teachers and aides in a small group format.
Las Vegas Valley: After-School All-Stars provides free after-school programming, which includes homework help, for at-risk youth.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
New Hampshire:
Nashua, Seacoast: Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multi-sensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
New Jersey:
Statewide: Homework HelpNow by Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring. Use any New Jersey library card to access this resource.
Burlington, Hasbrouck Heights, Northfield, Scotch Plains, Tenafly: Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multi-sensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Jersey City Free Public Library: Learning Express Library provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Short Hills and Basking Ridge: Middle and high school students at an independent school in the region founded TutorX to provide free homework help for other students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
New Mexico:
Albuquerque and Bernalillo County Public Libraries: Homework HelpNow by Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
New Mexico State Library: Learning Express Library is another free online homework help option with test preparation practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Central New York:Empower CNY provides free tutoring and leadership enrichment for students local to Central New York. Tutoring currently takes place online. But, the program is currently working to offer in-person opportunities by partnering with community centers, local libraries, and other non-profit organizations.
Central New York, Rochester: Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multi-sensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
New York City:Common Denominator offers one-on-one math tutoring for below-level New York City kids in grades 5-8. Additionally, the Community of Volunteer Educators (COVE) supports students with free tutoring in preK-12 subjects, including science, math, social studies, foreign languages, and more. Families in the New York City area can also access Homework HelpNow by Brainfuse through their library. Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
North Dakota:
Statewide:Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12. North Dakota residents can access this resource with their local library information.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Ohio:
Cleveland Public Library: This library offers free, in-person one-on-one and group tutoring in partnership with Cleveland State University and Case Western Reserve University.
Columbus: The Central Community House provides tutoring after school for children ages 5-11.The Ohio Hispanic Coalition provides an afterschool program with homework help for Latino/Hispanic students. Additionally, the Columbus Metropolitan Library offers “Virtual Reading Buddies” to help students in grades K-3 practice reading. Families in the area can also access Brainfuse through the library. Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Canton, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Norwood, Southeastern Ohio: Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multi-sensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Oklahoma:
Eastern Oklahoma Library System: Learning Express Library is a free online homework help option with test preparation practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Pioneer Library System: Homework HelpNow by Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring. Learning Express Library is another free online homework help option with test preparation practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Southern Oklahoma Library System: Homework HelpNow by Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Tulsa City-County Library: Homework HelpNow by Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring. Learning Express Library is another free online homework help option with test preparation practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Oregon:
Multnomah County Library: This library offers a variety of free tutoring services, such as tutoring by volunteers and college students for K-12 students.
Washington County Cooperative Library Services:Homework HelpNow by Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Pennsylvania:
Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Central Pennsylvania, Lancaster, Lehigh Valley, Pittsburgh, Reading, Western Pennsylvania: Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multi-sensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
West Philadelphia: The West Philadelphia Tutoring Project is a program at the University of Pennsylvania that provides a high-demand weekly tutoring program for Philadelphia students.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Rhode Island:
Cranston:Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multi-sensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
South Carolina:
Statewide: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12. South Carolina residents can access the resource with their library information.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
South Dakota:
Statewide: Learning Express Library is a free online homework help option with test preparation practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Tennessee:
Statewide: Tennessee’s Homework Hotline offers over-the-phone tutoring for students in grades K-12 in a great variety of subjects. Tutors are available to offer help in seven different languages.
Knox County Tennessee Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Spring Hill Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Texas:
Statewide: Texas A&M’s Aggie Homework Helpline provides free online tutoring to students in grades pre-K-12. Tutoring can take place via phone or Zoom, and tutors can help with homework, test review, reading practice, and more.
Austin Public Library:Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Brazoria County Library System: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
DeSoto Public Libraries: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Fort Bend County Libraries:Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring. Learning Express Library is another free online homework help option with test practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science.
Houston Public Library:Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Utah:
Statewide: Learning Express Library is a free homework help option with test preparation practice in reading, writing, math, social studies and science. It is available through Utah’s Online Public Library.
Salt Lake County Library Services: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Vermont:
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Virginia:
Statewide: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring and is available through the Library of Virginia.
Central Rappahannock Regional Library: Brainfuse HelpNow provides free online tutoring in English and Spanish for students of all ages.
Northern Virginia Area: GIVE Youth is a student-run non-profit that provides free tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Richmond Public Library: The library’s Homework Help offers tutoring sessions for students in grades K-5.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Washington:
The Seattle Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
425 Tutoring: Founded by Washington students, 425 Tutoring aims to support K-6 students with free virtual tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
West Virginia:
Kanawha County Public Library: Tutor.com provides free online tutoring for students in grades K-12.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Wisconsin:
Madison, Milwaukee, Upper Wisconsin: Children’s Dyslexia Centers provide free, high-quality reading and multi-sensory tutoring for children diagnosed with dyslexia.
Milwaukee Public Library: Brainfuse offers e-learning resources and free online tutoring.
Where to look for more: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Wyoming:
Where to look: Your school, your district, your library, the nearest Boys and Girls Club or YMCA, or family, friends, or neighbors.
Get ready to put on your dancing shoes and have some fun! We are excited to announce that the NSCW dance is back this year!
Special thanks toIndian River Charter High School from Vero Beach, Florida, for hosting this year’s dance and sharing their groovy steps with to celebrate National School Choice Week 2024.
Sharing your own dance video is a great way to get people talking about school choice. We encourage you to tag us using @SchoolChoiceWeek or use #schoolchoiceweek wherever you post it online! Have fun, and thank you for celebrating with us!
This year’s song is ‘Ready Now’ performed by Golden Blue. The song is fully licensed, and you may download it for your use. Find the song’s lyrics here.
Want your school to be considered for creating next year’s dance and tutorial video? We’d love to hear from you! Tag your dance video with #schoolchoiceweek or send us a direct message on any social media platform.
As a parent, you want the best education and the best future possible for your child. If he or she is being evaluated for an IEP or you’re thinking they may need some extra help in their educational journey, it can be intimidating to enter the acronym-heavy world of special education. Our mission is to empower and support you, the parent, to make the best decisions for your child’s education, no matter what type of school you choose.
So what does the term “special education” actually mean? Special education is specially designed instruction provided at no cost to a family to meet the specific needs of a child with a disability. Whether you’re navigating the special education process with your own family or just want to better understand how special education works, we’ve created a parents guide to special education to help you along the way.
What to ask when choosing a school for a special needs child
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What is Special Education?
Special Education Law
Special education, as we think of it today, has not always been accessible to students with disabilities. In fact, it wasn’t until 1975 and the Education for All Handicapped Children Act that a federal law protected the rights of students with disabilities to receive a free, appropriate public education and ensured access to a program that met their needs.
Child Find is a part of IDEA that legally requires schools to find children who have disabilities and need special education services (hereafter referred to as ‘services’). Child Find applies to children from birth through age 21 – including those students who are being homeschooled or are in private schools (more on that in How to Continue Your IEP, Even If You Start Homeschooling).
While the specifics vary by state and district, all Local Education Agencies (LEAs) must have a process in place to identify students with disabilities regardless of their school choice. Once a student is thought to have a disability, it is the responsibility of the LEA to conduct an evaluation and make an eligibility determination. Each school district must also have a process for identifying and evaluating children who may need special education services.
Besides identifying children who may need special education and related services, Child Find also informs parents and guardians of the services available to them.
IEP vs. 504 Plan
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans offer formal assistance for K-12 students who need extra support in school. A 504 Plan is a plan for how a school will ensure a child with a disability or impairment has the same access to the learning environment as their non-impaired peers. An IEP is a plan for a child’s special ed experience to ensure they make meaningful educational progress.
Related Services provide extra help and support so kids can get the most benefit from their education. Often, related services are a part of the special education process. IDEA lists the following as possible related services, but this list is not exhaustive.
If an IEP Team sees that a child has needs in a related service area, this can be evaluated as part of the formal evaluation process. In some cases, a student’s evaluation might indicate a need only in a related service area. For example, maybe a child only needs support in the area of fine motor skills. In this situation, an IEP might be written to provide a related service only. However, federal law says it is each state’s decision whether to allow related services to stand alone on an IEP. Related services can also be provided under a 504 plan if the challenges don’t have an impact on academic learning.
Online Services
For over 20 years, online education for students with disabilities has been occurring. Currently, over 38 states have online instruction! These online schools provide special education and related services by using small group or individualized online instruction, delivery of specialized content virtually, and other related services as indicated by the students’ needs.
Here are some articles and resources that have been shared about effective online learning and special education services:
Schools can utilize online learning tools, innovative staffing models, and community partnerships to address the needs of students with disabilities and other children facing unique learning obstacles or emotional challenges.
The Special Education Process
While each state has its own process for special education, IDEA outlines some basic steps that’ll be the same wherever you live:
1. Identify Needs
There are two ways that a student may be identified as possibly needing special ed and related services: through Project Child Find or by a referral or request for evaluation. Once a student has been identified as potentially needing services, an IEP Meeting will be scheduled where the IEP Team will review all available data and determine if they are going to conduct a formal assessment. If the decision is made to move forward with formal evaluations, parental consent is required before beginning.
2. Formal Evaluation
A formal evaluation is conducted to decide if a student has a disability that requires special education and related services. The evaluation also determines the specific areas of need and the best services for addressing that need. The evaluation that takes place must be individualized to the student and their suspected area of disability. Your State’s IDEA regulations will set the timeline for completion of the evaluation. If they do not, the federal IDEA regulations of 60 days after the parent gives consent applies.
If parents disagree with the results of the evaluation, they have the right to take their child for an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE). If you want to learn more about IEEs, Private Evaluations: What You Need to Know by Understood is a good resource.
3. Determine Eligibility
Once the requested evaluations have been completed, the IEP Team will schedule another meeting to review results and determine eligibility for special education and related services. The IEP Team, including the student’s parent or guardian, will sit down to review evaluation results and decide if the student is a “child with a disability” as defined by IDEA. If a child is found eligible, IDEA requires that the Team must meet to write an individualized education program (IEP) for them within 30 days.
4. Write an Initial IEP
After a child has been deemed eligible for special education and related services, the school will work with the parents to schedule an IEP meeting. The meeting invitation must state the purpose of the meeting; date, time, and location; who will be attending the meeting; and let parents know that they may also invite people to the meeting.
At the initial IEP meeting, the IEP Team discusses the child’s needs and writes the IEP. An IEP is a legal, written document that has two general purposes. First, it sets reasonable learning goals for a student. Second, it states the services that the district will provide. The IEP’s learning goals address a student’s participation in the general education curriculum, extracurricular activities, and any nonacademic activities.
While the format and content of an IEP varies by state and is customized for each child, IDEA outlines specific components that must be included:
– Current Performance: A statement of the child’s present levels of academic achievement and functional performance (including how their disability affects involvement and progress in the general education curriculum)
– Annual Goals: Measurable, annual goals (academic and functional)
– Measuring Progress: Description of how progress towards annual goals will be measured and when progress reports will be provided
– Special Education & Related Services: Statement of the special education and related services and supplementary aids that will be provided and a description of the program modifications or supports that will be provided (including who will be providing these supports)
– Participation with Nondisabled Children: Explanation of the extent (if any) that the child will receive services in a setting other than their regular class with nondisabled peers
– Participation in State and District-Wide Assessments: Statement of individual accommodations that are needed for the child to demonstrate their knowledge on state and districtwide assessments
– Dates and Places: The projected date for the beginning of services and modifications, as well as their anticipated frequency, location, and duration
– Transition Services Needs: If the student will turn 16 during the life of the IEP, IDEA requires:
– Measurable postsecondary goals based upon age-appropriate transition assessments (related to training, education, employment, and/or independent living skills)
– Age of Majority: Beginning no later than one year before the child reaches the age of majority under State law, the IEP must include a statement that they have been informed of their rights once they reach the age of majority
Prior to a school system providing any special education and related services, parental consent must be acquired. Services will begin as soon as possible once consent has been given. If parents do not agree with the IEP that has been developed, they have the right to discuss their concerns with the IEP Team. If an agreement cannot be reached, parents or the school can work through mediation or ask for assistance from their state agency. Find more information on this process in your state’s Parental Safeguards document.
5. Provide Services
Once consent has been received, the school makes sure that the IEP is carried out exactly as written. Each of the child’s teachers and service providers has access to the IEP and is made aware of their responsibilities as outlined by the IEP.
6. Monitor Progress
The child’s teachers and service providers keep track of the progress the child makes toward educational goals. Regular progress reports are provided during the year and the results are discussed at the annual IEP review.
7. Annual Review of IEP
At least once a year the child’s IEP is reviewed by the IEP Team. However, the IEP can be reviewed more frequently if the parents or the school request it. At the annual review, the child’s progress is discussed as the child continues to grow, and the IEP Team makes appropriate updates to the IEP.
8. Reevaluation
At least every three years, the child must be reevaluated for continued eligibility for special education and related services and to determine the child’s educational needs. This evaluation is sometimes referred to as the “triennial.”
Special Education and Your School Choice
Traditional Public Schools
All traditional public schools are required to identify and provide services to students with disabilities according to IDEA law.
Public Magnet Schools
Public magnet schools are free public schools that focus on particular themes. As they are publicly funded, they are required by law to identify and provide services to students with disabilities.
Public Charter Schools
Charter schools are public schools that are created by school districts, colleges, nonprofit organizations, or other entities. These schools are allowed to determine many of their own policies and practices, but since charter schools are public schools, they are required by law to identify and provide services to students with disabilities.
Online public schools are usually run by state governments, school districts, or charter schools. All online public schools are required to identify and provide services to students with disabilities according to IDEA law.
To learn more about what special education looks like at an online public school, check out our Q&A with Sarah Betz, an online special education teacher at Ohio Distance and Electronic Learning Academy.
Special education varies widely from private school to private school. Some independent schools are designed to meet the specific needs of students with disabilities. Other private schools may offer accommodations, but not specially designed instruction. While private schools may choose to offer special education, they are not required to by law.
Students with disabilities may also receive a service plan through the local education agency (LEA). IDEA law requires that all LEAs set aside funding for students with disabilities whose parents choose to send them to private school. As this money is limited, these students receive “equitable services”. Equitable services are services similar to what the student would receive in an IEP, however, often fewer services are available than what a child would receive at a public school. These services may be provided on the private school premises or transportation may be provided to the service site.
States vary in terms of how much IDEA funding is set aside to provide services to students with disabilities in the private school and homeschool setting. In several states, this funding is used for private school students only. However, some states consider homeschooled students to be in “private schools”, making equitable services available to homeschoolers! A handful of states have specifically expanded the eligibility of equitable services to include homeschoolers.
In at least 31 states and the District of Columbia, homeschooled students may automatically qualify for special education services. To see what is available in your state, check out our round-up here.
DoDEA Schools
Did you know – the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) operates 160 schools in 8 districts across 11 countries, 7 states, and 2 territories serving our military families? DoDEA schools follow IDEA law to identify and provide students with disabilities with a free, appropriate education. All military families should know about the Exceptional Family Member Program which connects families to the resources and programs they’ll need as they relocate around the country and the world. They may also be eligible for the Extended Care Health Option (ECHO) which provides financial assistance to beneficiaries with special needs for an integrated set of services and supplies.
All schools run by the Bureau of Indian Education are required by IDEA law to identify and provide services to students with special needs. These schools must utilize the special ed eligibility criteria and the state standards and assessment system in which they are located, in addition to the processes laid out by the Bureau of Indian Education.
Native American Disability Law Center – The Native American Disability Law Center’s mission is to advocate to ensure the rights of Native Americans with disabilities are enforced, strengthened, and brought into harmony with their communities.
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, online public schools, and charter schools in Alabama all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Alabama are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Alabama have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for the cost of private school. Homeschooled students are not eligible for special education services provided by their school district for free.
These are some Alabama-specific resources to help you further understand school choice for students with disabilities:
The Plan Language of Special Education – Auburn University, Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation and Counseling (SERC) & the Alabama State Department of Education
Autism Society of Alabama – The Autism Society of Alabama works to improve services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families through education and advocacy.
Family Voices of Alabama (FV of AL) – FV of AL aims to achieve family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities by providing tools to make informed decisions, advocacy, partnerships, and resources on health care.
The Arc of Alabama – The Arc of Alabama is a nonprofit, volunteer-based membership organization who advocates for the rights and protections of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing information and referral services, educational opportunities, and public policy initiatives.
Special Needs Resource Project – Alabama – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Alabama.
Alaska
In Alaska, traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Alaska are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Alaska considers homeschooled students taught via correspondence courses in the state to be privately schooled for the purposes of determining access to special education services. Read more about the rules at State of Alaska Correspondence Program Regulations. To learn more about homeschooling your student with disabilities, check out our round-up of resources!
Here are some resources to help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities in Alaska:
Stone Soup Group – a statewide nonprofit that provides information, support, training, and resources for families caring for children with special needs.
The Arc of Anchorage – The Arc of Anchorage has a full array of disability services from birth throughout life.
Special Needs Resource Project – Alaska – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Alaska.
Arizona
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, online public schools, and charter schools in Arizona all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Arizona are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Arizona have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for the cost of private school. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may qualify for equitable services. Parents of homeschooled children can also apply for Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESAs) and other state-run scholarships. For more information about homeschooling your students with disabilities, check out our guide!
Here are some resources to help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities in Arizona:
The Arc of Arizona – The Arc of Arizona advocates for the rights and full community participation of all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by improving systems of supports and services, connecting families, inspiring communication, and influencing public policy.
Parent Support Arizona – Parent Support Arizona offers education and civil rights advocacy; connects families with local resources and supports families as they navigate the public education system, state developmental disability system, and behavioral health system.
Special Needs Resource Project – Arizona – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Arizona.
Arkansas
In Arkansas, traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Arkansas are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. The state of Arkansas considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for the purpose of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may qualify for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, check out our guide!
These are some Arkansas-specific resources to help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities:
Your Rights Under the IDEA Procedural Safeguards Notice – available in Englishand Spanish
Arkansas Disability Coalition – a statewide nonprofit that empowers individuals and families to pursue opportunities for improvement in health, education, quality of life, and inclusion.
The Center for Exceptional Families – works to improve educational opportunities for students with disabilities, including students transitioning to adult life beyond high school.
Special Needs Resource Project – Arkansas – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Arkansas.
California
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, online public schools, and charter schools in California all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in California are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in California have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for the cost of private school. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities in California, check out our guide.
Here are some resources to help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities in California:
Parent Training and Information Center – parent-directed nonprofit organization that provides parents with training and information they need to enable them to participate effectively in helping their children with disabilities.
California Community Parent Resource Centers – helps ensure that underserved parents have the training and information they need to enable the parents effectively in helping their children with disabilities.
Special Needs In My City – a one-stop online resource offering information, parent advocacy, emotional support, and social connections for families.
The Arc of California – The Arc promotes and protects human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Special Needs Resource Project – California – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in California.
Colorado
In Colorado, traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Colorado are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Colorado considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for the purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with special needs, check out our guide!
Here are some Colorado-specific resources to help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities:
Parent and Child Rights in Special Education: Procedural Safeguards Notice – available in English, Spanish, and more.
PEAK Parent Center – offers an array of free and low-cost services to families of children with disabilities and self-advocates.
Thrive Center – The THRIVE Center exists to provide parents with information and training about disabilities; parent and children’s rights under IDEA and other laws; and resources in the Denver Metro area.
Disability Law Colorado – offers legal representation, information and referrals to people with disabilities, older people, and their families.
SWAAAC (Statewide Assistive Technology, Augmentative, and Alternative Communication) – provides multidisciplinary Assistive Technology services to provide students with disabilities equal access to the curriculum and full participation in their education and classroom.
Colorado Talking Book Library – CTBL provides audio, Braille, and large print books for people who can’t read standard print.
Parent to Parent of Colorado – an organization that connects families with their network of families across Colorado and to the resources that they need.
The Arc of Colorado– The Arc of Colorado promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Special Needs Resource Project – Colorado – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Colorado.
Connecticut
In Connecticut, traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Connecticut are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Homeschooled students are not eligible for special education services provided by their school district for free.
Here are some resources to help you further understand your school choice options for student with disabilities in Connecticut:
The Arc of Connecticut – The Arc of Connecticut is an advocacy organization committed to protecting the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and promoting opportunities for their full inclusion in their communities.
Special Needs Resource Project – Connecticut – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Connecticut.
Delaware
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, and charter schools in Delaware all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Delaware are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Delaware have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for the cost of private school. As of 2021, homeschooled students may be eligible for some special education services provided by their school district. For more information regarding homeschooling students with disabilities, check out our guide!
These Delaware-specific resources may help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities:
The Arc of Delaware – The Arc of Delaware is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for and serving Delawareans with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Special Needs Resource Project – Delaware – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Delaware.
Florida
In Florida, traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Florida are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Florida considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. Parents of students with disabilities can also apply for the Family Empowerment Scholarship. For more information regarding homeschooling students with disabilities, check out our guide!
Here are some Florida-specific resources to help you further understand school choice options for student with disabilities:
Notice of Procedural Safeguards for Parents of Student with Disabilities – available in English, Spanish, and more.
The Arc of Florida – The Arc of Florida is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Special Needs Resource Project – Florida – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Florida.
Georgia
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, and charter schools in Georgia all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Georgia are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Georgia have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for the cost of private school. In Georgia, homeschooled students are considered privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, check out our guide.
These Georgia-specific resources will help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Parent to Parent of Georgia – offers a variety of services to Georgia families such as support, information, education, and leadership development.
The Arc of Georgia – The Arc Georgia works alongside people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to promote and protect the human rights for all and actively support full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lives.
Special Needs Resource Project – Georgia – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Georgia.
Hawaii
In Hawaii, traditional public schools and charter schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Hawaii are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. The state of Hawaii considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, check out our guide!
Here are some Hawaii-specific resources that may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Special Parent Information Network: Hawaii – this parent to parent organization in Hawaii that provides information, support and referral to parents of children and young adults with disabilities and the professionals who serve them.
Hawaii Autism Foundation – helps families identify needs and find solutions that will assure individuals have the tools and transitional support they need.
The Arc of Hawaii – The Arc in Hawai’i provides services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities on Oahu.
Special Needs Resource Project – Hawaii – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Hawaii.
Idaho
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, online public schools, and charter schools in Idaho all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Idaho are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Idaho have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for the cost of private school. Homeschooled students can dual enroll in their public school; however, under state regulations, homeschooled students may not dually enroll solely for the purpose of receiving special education services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in Idaho:
The Arc Idaho – Idaho The Arc is committed to serving individuals with developmental disabilities by working to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the supports they need to achieve independence in all facets of their lives.
Special Needs Resource Project – Idaho – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Idaho.
Illinois
In Illinois, traditional public schools, charter schools, and magnet schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Illinois are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. The state of Illinois considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for the purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information regarding homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some Illinois-specific resources to help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
The Arc of Illinois – The Arc of Illinois advocates for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families and community organizations to ensure that people with disabilities can live, work, learn, and play in communities across the state.
Special Needs Resource Project – Illinois – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Illinois.
Indiana
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, online public schools, and charter schools in Idaho all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Idaho are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Indiana have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for the cost of private school. Homeschooled students in Indiana are considered privately schooled students for the purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in Indiana:
Indiana Department of Education Notice of Procedural Safeguards – available in English, Spanish, and more.
Navigating the Course: Finding Your Way through Indiana’s Special Education Rules – a practical resource to help parents available in English and Spanish.
Indiana IEP Resource Center – the IEPRC provides resources, professional learning opportunities, and technical assistance to improve outcomes for students with disabilities.
Indiana Family to Family – Indiana’s Parent to Parent organization that works to give support, answer questions, and provide information and resources to families of children with special needs.
The Arc of Indiana – The Arc of Indiana is committed to all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities realizing their goals of living, learning, working, and fully participating in the community.
Special Needs Resource Project – Indiana – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Indiana.
Iowa
In Iowa, traditional public schools, charter schools, online public schools, and magnet schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Illinois are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Iowa homeschooled students taught through a program of “competent private instruction” may dual enroll in their local public school for the purposes of receiving special education services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, check out our guide.
Here are some Iowa specific resources to help you understand your school choice options for students with disabilities:
Procedural Safeguards Manual for Parents (Parental Rights in Special Education) – available in English, Spanish, and more.
Unilateral Placement by Parents – Iowa Department of Education guidance for parents who choose to place their students with disabilities in a private school.
ASK Resource Center – The state of Iowa’s Parent Training and Information Center for families of children with disabilities that provides advocacy, training, resources, and supports.
The Arc of Iowa – The Arc represents, supports, and acts on behalf of individuals and their families regardless of level of ability or membership in The Arc.
Special Needs Resource Project – Iowa – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Iowa.
Kansas
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, online public schools, and charter schools in Kansas all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Kansas are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Idaho have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for the cost of private school. Homeschooled students are considered as privately schooled students for the purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. To find out more about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These Kansas-specific resources may help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities:
Parent Guide to Special Education: A Companion to the Kansas Special Education Process Handbook – available in English and Spanish.
Families Together, Inc. – The Kansas Parent Training and Information & Family-to-Family Health Information Center providing support and information for families of children with disabilities.
Kansas Parent Information Resource Center – promotes meaningful family engagement by developing resources, developing parent advocacy, offering professional learning to educators, and providing technical assistance to educators.
Special Needs Resource Project – Kansas – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Kansas.
Kentucky
Traditional public schools and magnet schools in Kentucky all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Kentucky are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Kentucky have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. The state of Kentucky considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for the purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some resources to help you understand your school choice options for students with disabilities in Kentucky:
KY-SPIN– KY-SPIN is a statewide nonprofit organization that works to link families and individuals with disabilities to valuable resources.
The Arc of Kentucky – The Arc of Kentucky holds a vision of a positive future for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities; a future for communities with services and supports that will promote lives of value.
Special Needs Resource Project – Kentucky – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Kentucky.
Louisiana
In Louisiana, traditional public schools, charter schools, online public schools, and magnet schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Louisiana are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Homeschooled students are not considered privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services and are not eligible for services from their school district for free.
These Louisiana-based resources may help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities:
Louisiana’s Educational Rights of Children with Disabilities: Special Education Processes + Procedural Safeguards – available in English, Spanish, and more.
Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans – Families Helping Families is a resource center staffed by trained, knowledgeable parents of children with disabilities or special health care needs.
The Arc of Louisiana – The Arc of Louisiana advocates with and for all people with intellectual and related developmental disabilities and their families so that they shall live to their fullest potential.
Special Needs Resource Project – Louisiana – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Louisiana.
Maine
Traditional public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, and online public schools in Maine all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Maine are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Maine have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. Homeschooled students are considered privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services, provided that the student is enrolled in a program “recognized by the Department as providing equivalent instruction” to private schools. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some resources to help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities in Maine:
Notice of Procedural Safeguards – available in English, Spanish, and more.
Special Needs Resource Project – Maine – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Maine.
Maryland
In Maryland, traditional public schools, charter schools, and magnet schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Maryland are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Homeschooled students in Maryland do not automatically qualify for special education services provided under IDEA, although local districts can choose to make services available. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These Maryland-specific resources may help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities:
Nonpublic Special Education – Information regarding tuition assistance for students placed in nonpublic education settings by the IEP Team as part of the IEP process.
The Arc of Maryland – The Arc of Maryland is the largest statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to the rights and quality of life of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Special Needs Resource Project – Maryland – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Maryland.
Massachusetts
Traditional public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, and online public schools in Massachusetts all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Massachusetts are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Massachusetts have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some resources to help you further understand your school choice options for students with disabilities in Massachusetts:
The Arc of Massachusetts – The Arc of Massachusetts provides education and systems of advocacy to families, the public, and more.
Federation for Children with Special Needs – The Federation for Children with Special Needs provides information, support, and assistance to parents of children with disabilities, their professional partners, and their communities.
Family Ties of Massachusetts – Family TIES is a project of the Federation for Children with Special Needs that provides information and referral services, emotional support, and training to parents of children and youth with special needs.
Parent/Professional Advocacy League – The Parent/Professional Advocacy League is a statewide, grassroots family organization that advocates for improved access to mental health services for children, youth and their families.
DisabiliyInfo.org is a website run through INDEX, a program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, a Center for Excellence at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. INDEX collects and keeps up-to-date information on programs, providers, and services in Massachusetts that have something to offer people with disabilities.
In Michigan, traditional public schools, charter schools, and magnet schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Michigan are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services and may be eligible for equitable services, provided the parents have registered their homeschool with the Michigan Department of Education. For more information on homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These Michigan-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Special Education Process Fact Sheet explaining the special education process including the steps from evaluation to eligibility, program, specialized instruction, and placement – available in English, Spanish, and Arabic.
Family Matters – Family Matters is an outreach effort from the Michigan Department of Education, Office of Special Education to provide parents with information about special education and other resources.
Michigan Alliance for Families – Michigan Alliance for Families is a statewide resource to connect families of children with disabilities to resources to help improve their children’s education.
The Arc of Michigan – The vision of the Arc of Michigan is that all people realize and fulfill their dreams of having employment, education, meaningful relationships, and living independently within their community.
Special Needs Resource Project – Michigan – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Michigan.
Minnesota
Traditional public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, and online public schools in Minnesota all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Minnesota are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Minnesota have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. Homeschooled students are considered privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible to receive equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some Minnesota-specific resources that may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Minnesota Department of Education: Part B Notice of Procedural Safeguards Parental Rights for Public School Special Education Students – available in English, Spanish, and more.
The Arc of Minnesota – The Arc of Minnesota promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing information, assistance, and education.
Special Needs Resource Project – Minnesota – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Minnesota.
Mississippi
In Mississippi, traditional public schools, charter schools, and magnet schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Mississippi are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Parents of students who wish to attend private schools can also apply for the Educational Savings Account program, which provides parents with funding to pay for special education services. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information regarding homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in Mississippi:
The Arc of Mississippi – The Arc of Mississippi works to include all children and adults with cognitive, intellectual, and developmental disabilities in every community.
Special Needs Resource Project – Mississippi – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Mississippi.
Missouri
Traditional public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, and online public schools in Missouri all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Missouri are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Missouri have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. The state considers students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible to receive equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some Missouri-specific resources to help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
The Parent’s Guide to Special Education in Missouri – available in English and Spanish.
Procedural Safeguards Notice: Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) – available in English, Spanish, and ASL (Part 1 & Part 2).
Project ACCESS – Project ACCESS is a collaboration between Missouri State and The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that offers training, resources, and support services to school district personnel who serve students.
The Arc of Missouri – The Arc of Missouri works to support and empower persons with developmental disabilities and their families through advocacy and education, expanding individual choices and promoting community inclusion.
Special Needs Resource Project – Missouri – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Missouri.
Montana
In Montana, traditional public schools follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities. Private schools in Montana are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These Montana-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
IDEA Special Education Part B: Procedural Safeguards Notice – available in English and Spanish.
Montana Empowerment Center – Montana Empowerment Center provides online resources and individualized assistance to help Montana parents and educators support and enrich the lives of children with disabilities.
Special Needs Resource Project – Montana – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Montana.
Nebraska
Traditional public schools and magnet schools in Nebraska all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Nebraska are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Nebraska have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for the purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some resources to help you further understand school choice options for student with disabilities in Nebraska:
Disability Rights Nebraska – Disability Rights Nebraska protects, supports, and promotes the rights of people with disabilities in Nebraska.
The Arc of Nebraska – The Arc of Nebraska provides advocacy to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Special Needs Resource Project – Nebraska – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Nebraska.
Nevada
In Nevada, traditional public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, and online public schools follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities. Private schools in Nevada are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Nevada considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These Nevada-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Special Education Rights of Parents and Children – available in English and Spanish.
Special Needs Resource Project – Nevada – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Nevada.
NEAT Services – NEAT Services is an educational advocacy, tutoring, and homeschool help provider in Southern Nevada for children and young adults with disabilities and learning difficulties.
New Hampshire
Traditional public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, and online public schools in New Hampshire all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in New Hampshire are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in New Hampshire have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. Homeschooled students in New Hampshire are not considered privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services and are not eligible for special education services provided by the school district. Parents may qualify for income-based scholarships that can fund special education services, tutoring, or homeschool expenses.
Here are some resources to help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in New Hampshire:
New Hampshire Special Education Procedural Safeguards Handbook – available as both written and audio files in English, Spanish, and more.
Parent Information Center – The Parent Information Center (PIC) provides services designed to help parents understand their child’s special needs and the laws that govern the special education process.
A Family Guide to Special Education in New Hampshire by the Parent Information Center – available in English and Spanish.
NH Connections – NH Connections provides child care, early learning and afterschool resources & referrals for families, providers and communities.
University of New Hampshire Institute on Disability/UCED – The IOD promotes full access, equal opportunities, and participation for all persons by strengthening communities and advancing policy and systems change, promising practices, education, and research.
In New Jersey, traditional public schools, charter schools, and magnet schools follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities. Private schools in New Jersey are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost to the family. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. In New Jersey, homeschooled students are not considered privately schooled students for the purposes of determining access to special education services and are not eligible to receive equitable services from their school district for free.
These New Jersey-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
New Jersey Department of Education Parental Rights in Special Education – available in English, Spanish, and more.
Learning Resource Center (LRC) Network – The LRC Network provides materials and resources to support the education of students with disabilities. The Centers provide regional and targeted professional development and technical assistance to both educators and families of student with disabilities.
The Arc of New Jersey – The Arc of New Jersey is the state’s largest organization advocating for and serving children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Special Needs Resource Project – New Jersey– This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in New Jersey.
New Mexico
Traditional public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, and online public schools in New Mexico all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in New Mexico are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in New Mexico have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. In New Mexico, homeschooled students are not considered privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services and are not eligible for equitable services provided by their district for free.
Here are some resources to help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in New Mexico:
EPICS – is a Community Parent Resource Center serving families who have Native American children with disabilities or developmental delays in NM, including those with special healthcare needs, and the professionals that work with them.
Parents Reaching Out – Parents Reaching Out is a nonprofit organization that works with parents, caregivers, educators, and other professionals.
The Arc of New Mexico – The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Special Needs Resource Project – New Mexico – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in New Mexico.
New York
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, and charter schools in New York all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in New York are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in New York have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. The state of New York considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible to receive equitable services for free. For more information about homeschooling your student with disabilities, check out our round-up here!
These are some state-specific resources to help you further understand special education and school choice in New York:
Special Education in New York State for Children Ages 3-21: A Parent’s Guide – in English and Spanish
New York State Education Department Procedural Safeguards Notice: Rights for Parents of Children with Disabilities, Ages 3-21 – available in English, Spanish, and more!
The Arc New York – A family-based organization for people with intellectual disabilities and developmental disabilities.
Special Needs Resource Project – New York – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in New York.
North Carolina
In North Carolina, traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in North Carolina are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Homeschool students may be eligible for special education services provided by their district for free. For more information about homeschooling your student with disabilities in North Carolina, visit our round-up here!
Here are some resources to help you further understand your school choice options for your student with a disability in North Carolina:
The Arc of North Carolina – The Arc of North Carolina is committed to securing for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to choose and realize their goals of where and how they learn, live, work, and play.
Traditional public schools in North Dakota all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in North Dakota are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in North Dakota have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. Homeschooled students are not considered as privately schooled students for the purposes of determining access to special education and are not eligible for free services from their district.
These North Dakota-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Special Needs Resource Project – North Dakota – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in North Dakota.
Ohio
In Ohio, traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Ohio are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Ohio homeschool and private school students with disabilities are eligible for the Jon Peterson Scholarship program, which provides parents with scholarships of up to $27,000 annually in lieu of providing them with a free and appropriate public education. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some Ohio-specific resources that may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
The Arc of Ohio – The Arc of Ohio advocates for human rights, personal dignity, and community participation of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Special Needs Resource Project – Ohio – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Ohio.
Oklahoma
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools in Oklahoma all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Oklahoma are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Oklahoma have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. Parents or guardians can apply for the Lindsey Nicole Henry (LNH) Scholarship to attend a participating private school. In Oklahoma, homeschooled students with disabilities are not eligible for special education services to be provided by their school district for free.
These resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in Oklahoma:
Parents Rights in Special Education: Notice of Procedural Safeguards – available in English, Spanish, and more.
The Arc of Oklahoma – The Arc of Oklahoma educates, empowers, advocates, and supports individuals with developmental disabilities, and their families, through a network of programs and services designed to ensure a high quality of life for all Oklahomans.
Special Needs Resource Project – Oklahoma – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Oklahoma.
Oregon
In Oregon, traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Oregon are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. The state considers homeschool students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services provided by the district for free. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some Oregon-specific resources that may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Procedural Safeguards Notice: Parent Rights for Special Education K-21 – available in English, Spanish, and more.
The Arc of Oregon – The Arc of Oregon promotes and defends the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Special Needs Resource Project – Oregon – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Oregon.
Pennsylvania
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools in Pennsylvania all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Pennsylvania are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Pennsylvania have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. Pennsylvania homeschool students may be considered eligible for special education services provided by their local district. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These Pennsylvania-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Parents’ Rights: Understanding the Procedural Safeguards Notice by the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network – available in English and Spanish.
Pennsylvania Parent Guide to Special Education for School-Age Children by the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network – available in English and Spanish.
PEAL Center – The PEAL Center is an organization of parents of children with disabilities and special health care needs who educates and empowers families to ensure that children, youth, and young adults with disabilities and special health care needs lead rich, active lives.
The Arc of Pennsylvania – The Arc of Pennsylvania promotes the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Special Needs Resource Project – Pennsylvania – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Pennsylvania.
Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, traditional public schools, magnet schools, and charter schools all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Rhode Island are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Homeschooled students are not considered privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services and are not eligible for equitable services provided by their district for free.
Here are some resources to help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in Rhode Island:
Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) – RIPIN’s mission is to help individuals, parents, families, and children achieve their goals by providing information, training, education, support, and advocacy.
The Arc Rhode Island – The Arc Rhode Island leads state-level public policy activities as well as provides training, public awareness and education, and grassroots advocacy building to protect the rights of Rhode Islanders with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Special Needs Resource Project – Rhode Island – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Rhode Island.
South Carolina
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools in South Carolina all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in South Carolina are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in South Carolina have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. Parents can apply to the Exceptional Needs Children Fund to receive a scholarship towards private school if your child has a disability and you believe that the assigned public school does not meet their needs. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These South Carolina-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Federation of Families of South Carolina – The Federation of Families of South Carolina works to provide leadership in the area of children’s mental health through education, awareness, support, and advocacy for families.
Family Connection South Carolina – Family Connection of South Carolina works to change lives by making connections, raising awareness, and promoting inclusion for those with disabilities and special healthcare needs.
The Arc of South Carolina – The Arc of South Carolina promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetime.
In South Dakota, traditional public schools follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in South Dakota are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Homeschooled students are not considered privately schooled students for determining access to special education services and are not eligible for equitable services provided by their district for free.
Here are some South Dakota-specific resources to help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
South Dakota Parent Connection – The South Dakota Parent Connection provides individual assistance to families and professionals, workshops for families and professionals, electronic and printed publications and online resources, and connects families to other organizations that can provide assistance.
Special Needs Resource Project – South Dakota – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in South Dakota.
Tennessee
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools in Tennessee all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Tennessee are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Tennessee have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide. Parents of special needs students can also apply for the Individualized Education Account program, which gives parents funds to pay for special education services. If you’re interested in the Individualized Education Account program, you can obtain more information and an application at the Tennessee Department of Education.
These resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in Tennessee:
Tennessee Department of Education Notice of Procedural Safeguards: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act – available in English, Spanish, and more.
The Arc Tennessee – The Arc Tennessee empowers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to actively participate in the community throughout their lifetime.
Special Needs Resource Project – Tennessee – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Tennessee.
Texas
In Texas, traditional public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, and online public schools follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Texas are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some Texas-specific resources that may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Special Education in Texas A-Z Index – This index by the Texas Education Agency has listed many education-related topics alphabetically linking to where they are used on the TEA’s website.
Notice of Procedural Safeguards – available in English, Spanish, and more.
SPEDTex – SPEDTex provides information and resources to help parents understand their child’s disability, their rights and responsibilities under IDEA,and facilitate collaboration that supports the development and delivery of services.
Partners Resource Network – The Partners Resource Network is a nonprofit agency that operates the Texas statewide network of Parent Training and Information Centers that help parents understand their child’s disability; understand their rights & responsibilities; obtain and evaluate resources and services; and participate in planning services.
The Arc of Texas – The Arc of Texas promotes, protects, and advocates for the human rights and self-determination of Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Special Needs Resource Project – Texas – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Texas.
Utah
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools in Utah all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Utah are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Utah have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. Parents of students with disabilities who would like to enroll their students in a private school can apply for the Carson Smith Special Needs Scholarship Program (CSS) to help with tuition. Homeschooled students are not considered privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education and are not eligible for services by the school district for free unless they are dually enrolled in a public school. However, starting in 2024, the Utah Fits All Scholarship will provide flexible funding for families choosing to enroll in a nonpublic school option, like homeschooling. Families can use this funding for customized learning needs, including occupational, behavioral, physical, audiology, or speech-language therapies.
These Utah-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Utah State Board of Education Special Education Rights of Parents and Children Procedural Safeguards Notice – available in English, Spanish, and more.
Utah Parent Center – The Utah Parent Center (UPC) helps parents, children, youth, and young adults with all disabilities to live included, productive lives by providing information, peer support, training, and advocacy.
Autism Council of Utah – The Autism Council of Utah works to foster collaboration, communication, and learning among families and agencies by promoting access to resources and responsible information.
Technical Assistance for Excellence in Special Education (TAESE) – TAESE works to improve results for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities by providing access to expertise and technical assistance services; facilitating activities to help agencies meet state and federal requirements; and designing, organizing, and implementing a variety of professional development activities.
Utah Developmental Disabilities Council (UDDC) – The Utah Developmental Disabilities Council advocates for, and strengthen leadership skills in, individuals with disabilities and their families.
Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind – The Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind support students across the state of Utah and serves as a leader across the country and around the world for the education of students who are deaf, blind, or deaf-blind.
Utah State Instructional Materials Access Center (USIMAC) – The USIMAC provides the proper materials in the format that will give students the greatest success in the classroom – including Braille, Large Print, and PDF/DAISY/EPUB
Special Needs Resource Project – Utah – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Utah.
Vermont
In Vermont, traditional public schools and magnet schools follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Vermont are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. In some cases, Vermont homeschool students may be eligible for special education services provided by their school district for free. While not strictly required by law, some districts elect to provide special education services to homeschoolers through a Services Plan. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in Vermont:
Vermont Association of the Deaf (VTAD) – VTAD’s goal is to create a better world for the deaf individuals and their families through community outreach, advocacy, education, legislative efforts, and collaboration.
Vermont Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health – The Vermont Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health supports families and children where a child or youth (0-22) by providing families with peer support and information; empowering families, youth, and young adults to navigate service and support systems; and advocating for accessible, flexible, and quality family centered and driven services.
Vermont Interdisciplinary Team (I-Team) – The Vermont I-Team provides technical assistance for teams working with students (3-22), along with training to school district personnel, family members, community service providers, and general community members.
Vermont Family Network – The Vermont Family Network works to empower and support all Vermont children, youth, and families, especially those with disabilities or special health needs.
Vermont Assistive Technology Program (VATP) – VATP helps individuals of all ages find accessible solutions to overcome barriers at home, work, and in the community as related to disability and aging related needs.
Special Needs Resource Project – Vermont – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Vermont.
Virginia
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools in Virginia all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Vermont are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Vermont have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services provided by their school district for free. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some Virginia-specific resources that may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Virginia Department of Education Parent Ombudsman for Special Education website – An Ombudsman is a person who serves as a designated neutral party who advocates for a fair process and provides confidential, informal assistance and support to parents, guardians, advocates, educators, and students with disabilities in non-legal special education matters.
PEATC – PEATC provides tools and information to empower Virginia students with disabilities (birth-age 26) and their families.
Center for Family Involvement – The Center for Family Involvement works with families to increase their skills as advocates, mentors, and leaders so that families, children and young adults with disabilities can lead the lives they want.
Virginia Family Special Education Connection – The Virginia Family Special Education Connection website provides a one-stop-shop for parents, families, and caregivers of children with special needs.
I’m Determined – Critical Decision Points – This guide, created by the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities, assists in helping families make decisions at critical points in their education.
The Arc of Virginia – The Arc of Virginia is the statewide advocacy organization made up of people with developmental disabilities, their family members and their allies, who are fighting for A Life Like Yours, for Virginians.
Special Needs Resource Project – Virginia – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Virginia.
Washington
In Washington, traditional public schools and magnet schools follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Washington are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Homeschooled students in Washington can receive “ancillary services” from their home district for free. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities in Washington, visit our guide.
These Washington-state-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Washington Sensory Disability Services – Washington Sensory Disability Services supports the developmental and learning needs of children aged birth to 21 who are deaf or hard of hearing; are blind or low vision; are deafblind.
Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP) – WATAP provides resources and services to persons who face challenges related to disability and aging to help in the selection and use of assistive technology.
WEA Special Education Support Center – The WEA Special Education Support Center provides training to all educators, parents, and service organizations.
The Arc of Washington State – The Arc of Washington State advocates for and beside children and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their families.
Special Needs Resource Project – Washington – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Washington.
West Virginia
Traditional public schools, magnet schools, charter schools, and online public schools in West Virginia all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in West Virginia are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in West Virginia have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. Homeschool students are not considered privately schooled students for determining access to special education services and are not eligible to receive equitable services from their school district for free. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some resources to help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in West Virginia:
West Virginia Parent Training and Information (WVPTI) – WVPTI is a nonprofit parent organization that works to empower families as advocates and partners in improving education, health, and transition outcomes for their children and youth with disabilities and special health care needs.
The Arc of West Virginia – The Arc of West Virginia works to ensure a satisfying and productive life for the citizens we serve with intellectual, cognitive, and related developmental disabilities and their families.
In Wisconsin, traditional public schools and magnet schools follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Wisconsin are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. Local districts do not have to provide special education services to homeschooled students; however, they may choose to do so. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These Wisconsin-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
Part B: Procedural Safeguards Notice – available in English, Spanish, and more.
An Introduction to Special Education by the Wisconsin Department of Instruction – available in English, Spanish, and more.
Special Education in Plain Language: A User-Friendly Handbook on Special Education Laws, Policies, and Practices in Wisconsin – available in English and Spanish
Wisconsin Statewide Parent Educator Initiative (WSPEI) – WSPEI helps families and school districts by assisting families with navigating special education and partnering with schools through technical assistance, trainings, and programs.
Wisconsin Family Ties – Wisconsin Family Ties provides information and referrals, family support, education, and Parent Peer Specialists to assist families of children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral, and mental disorders.
Alianza Latina Aplicando Soluciones – Alianza Latina Aplicando Soluciones is a nonprofit organization that provides educational workshops, parent support groups, family events, community building activities, and service referrals to families of children and youth with diverse abilities.
Arc of Wisconsin – The Arc of Wisconsin provides information and referral services, individual advocacy to address education, employment, health care and other concerns, self-advocacy initiatives, residential support, employment programs, leisure and recreational programs.
Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin (ASW) – The ASW builds relationships and partnerships with other community agencies with the goal of building autism friendly, inclusive communities.
Family Voices of Wisconsin – Family Voices of Wisconsin is a statewide network of families who have children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities by providing information, training, and leadership opportunities.
Well Badger Resource Center – The Well Badger Resource Center is a health information and referral program that assists in finding needed programs and services such as early intervention screening.
Special Needs Resource Project – Wisconsin – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Wisconsin.
Wyoming
Traditional public schools, charter schools, and online public schools in Wyoming all follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Wyoming are not required to provide special education services, but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide equitable services at no cost. Parents of school-age children in Wyoming have the right to select a private school for their student with disabilities; however, as long as the district has offered a free appropriate public education they are not responsible for tuition reimbursement. The state considers homeschooled students as privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services provided by their school district for free. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
Here are some resources that may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities in Wyoming:
Special Needs Resource Project – Wyoming – This list includes state links, national links, US Military links, and Native American links to resources available in Wisconsin.
Washington, D.C.
In Washington, D.C., traditional public schools and magnet schools follow IDEA guidance to identify and provide services to students with disabilities attending these schools. Private schools in Washington, D.C. are not required to provide special education services but can choose to offer them to their students or partner with the local LEA to provide them at no cost. Parents have the right to choose a private school for their student with disabilities; however, the district is not required to pay for tuition as long as the LEA has made a free appropriate public education available to their child. In D.C., homeschooled students are considered privately schooled students for purposes of determining access to special education services; therefore, they may be eligible for equitable services provided by their district for free. For more information about homeschooling students with disabilities, visit our guide.
These Washington, D.C.-specific resources may help you further understand school choice options for students with disabilities:
10 Basic Steps in Special Education takes the special education process and breaks it down into the basic steps, linking to more information for each step. (PDF) (web)
The Contents of the IEP post shares what parents can expect to be part of their child’s Individualized Education Program.
The Office of the Student Advocate by the State Board of Education of Washington, D.C. created Knowing the Difference: 504 Plan or IEP to provide quick and accessible information on some of the major differences.
The PROGRESS Center put together a list of Resources for Families and Students that highlight the resources that can be used to support the development and implementation of high-quality educational programs for students with disabilities.
Special Education Guide is an online resource for parents and educators who want to master the terminology, procedures, and best practices in special education. Here are some of their resources:
The Center for Learner Equity provides family resources that cover a range of topics relevant to families, including informative research projects surrounding navigating special education and school choice.
The Center for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education (CADRE) focuses on encouraging the use of mediation, facilitation, and other collaborative processes as strategies for resolving disagreements between parents and schools about children’s educational programs and support services.
The TIES Center works to create sustainable changes so that students with significant cognitive disabilities can fully engage in the same instructional and non-instructional activities as their peers while being instructed in a way that meets individual learning needs.
Understood put together What is Child Find? – an article discussing how Child Find works, what happens when an evaluation is requested, and what happens when schools don’t follow Child Find.
The information in this guide to special education is designed to help families who are interested in learning more about the school choice options for students with disabilities in their state. Our mission is to provide families with the information they need about all the school options available – traditional public, public charter, public magnet, private, online, and at home – so they can choose the right fit for their child. Read more guides about the other types of schools.
Decenas de millones de niños a través de los Estados Unidos asisten a escuelas públicas tradicionales en los 50 estados. Tal vez usted fue a una, o quizás su hijo asiste a una escuela pública tradicional. Tal vez incluso decidió rentar o comprar una casa o apartamento porque usted quería que su hijo asistiera a la escuela pública tradicional cercana.
Muchos estudiantes que asisten a escuelas públicas tradicionales son asignados a asistir a esas escuelas por los oficiales del distrito escolar – basado en mapas de límites escolares y zonificación. Estas escuelas son gratuitas y deben aceptar a todos los estudiantes, independientemente de su rendimiento académico previo o necesidades especiales de aprendizaje.
¿Pero sabía usted que las escuelas públicas tradicionales pueden ser también escuelas de elección? Es posible que usted pueda escoger una escuela pública tradicional fuera de su vecindario o zona ¡totalmente gratis! Como verá a continuación, la mayoría de los estados tienen reglas que permiten transferencias escolares, excepciones de límites o algún tipo de elección de escuela pública, el cual se conoce a menudo como inscripción abierta. Esas reglas hacen posible que los padres elijan una escuela pública ideal para ellos ¡ya sea en su vecindario o al otro lado de la ciudad!
¿Es esta la primera vez que navega por el sistema educativo en los Estados Unidos? Si es así, es esencial saber que la educación K-12 es obligatoria, gratuita y abierta a todos los niños de este país, independientemente de los ingresos familiares, el estado migratorio o la religión.
Cada familia tiene una escuela pública local asignada a la que es gratis asistir, pero en la mayoría de los lugares usted puede elegir entre otras escuelas públicas gratuitas como escuelas chárter, escuelas magnet o escuelas en línea; o seleccionar una escuela privada o educación en el hogar. Encuentre más información sobre la estructura del sistema educativo aquí y algunas preguntas frecuentes para padres migrantes de primera generación que buscan opciones de elección de escuela aquí.
¿Te gusta lo que ves? ¡Ingrese su correo electrónico para obtener más recursos educativos gratuitos!
¿Qué es la Inscripción Abierta para la Escuela Pública?
La inscripción abierta es una forma importante de elección de escuela pública. Eso les permite a los padres elegir escuelas públicas fuera de su vecindario asignado. De esa manera, las familias pueden elegir la mejor escuela pública para su hijo, incluso si no está en su código postal.
[bctt tweet=”Es posible que usted pueda escoger una escuela pública tradicional fuera de su vecindario o zona ¡totalmente gratis! Consulte la guía gratuita de @SchoolChoiceWk para elegir escuelas públicas tradicionales, dentro o fuera de su distrito.” url=”https://schoolchoiceweek.com/transferencia-de-escuela-publica/” via=”no”]
Cada estado tiene diferentes leyes de inscripción abierta para la escuela pública. Desde el 2019, 33 estados y el Distrito de Columbia les permiten a los estudiantes asistir a otras escuelas públicas tradicionales dentro de su distrito asignado, lo que se le llama inscripción intradistrital o dentro del distrito. Mientras tanto, 44 estados y el Distrito de Columbia permiten a los estudiantes asistir a escuelas públicas fuera de su distrito: inscripción interdistratal osea entre distritos. (Algunos estados permiten ambas opciones).
Entonces, si la inscripción abierta está disponible para usted, puede aprovecharla visitando varias escuelas y descubriendo cuál es la mejor escuela para su familia. Después de todo, las escuelas públicas no son todas iguales. Pueden diferir en los métodos de aprendizaje y una puede simplemente “sentirse diferente” que otra para usted.
Preguntas comunes sobre escuelas públicas tradicionales
¿Las escuelas públicas reabrirán en el otoño del 2021?
Debido al coronavirus, el plan de reapertura de las escuelas públicas luce ampliamente diferente a través de América. Le recomendamos conectarse con su distrito local para conocer sobre sus planes de reapertura.
¿Cuántos distritos escolares públicos hay en los Estados Unidos? Y, ¿cuántos maestros de escuela pública hay?
A menudo el código postal determina en qué distrito escolar usted esta. Si no está seguro de su distrito escolar, puede buscarlo aquí. Una vez que sepa su distrito, usted puede visitar el sitio web de su distrito para encontrar su escuela asignada. No se olvide que puede haber opciones de inscripción abierta que le permite asistir a cualquier escuela en el distrito, ¡o incluso a escuelas fuera del distrito!
¿Cómo son administradas las escuelas públicas?
Las escuelas públicas tradicionales son administradas por distritos escolares locales. Estos distritos escolares generalmente son supervisados por juntas escolares elegidas. Todas las escuelas públicas deben seguir las leyes de educación en el estado. Cada estado tiene sus propias políticas de certificación de maestros. Por lo general, todos o la mayoría de los maestros en las escuelas públicas deben estar certificados por el estado para enseñar.
¿Cuánto es el salario de un maestro de escuela pública?
En el año escolar 2019-2020, el salario promedio de los maestros de escuela pública era alrededor de $61, 730.
Escuelas Públicas de Elección en su Estado
Todos los estados tienen escuelas públicas tradicionales pero ¿sabe usted si su estado ofrece inscripción abierta? Esto le permite elegir escuelas fuera de su vecindario, zona o distrito? Continúe más abajo para saber si puede usar la inscripción abierta para asistir a una escuela pública de su elección. También puede ponerse en contacto con su distrito local para más información.
En 10 estados los padres pueden seleccionar cualquier escuela pública tradicional para su hijo, en cualquier distrito escolar.
En 18 estados, hay al menos algunas situaciones en las que las escuelas requieren participar en la inscripción abierta. Por ejemplo, algunos estados garantizan la inscripción abierta a familias que quieran transferir de una escuela de bajo rendimiento, o familias que viven muy lejos de la escuela asignada. En estos estados, los padres que cumplen ciertos requisitos tienen garantizada la elección. La inscripción abierta puede ser opcional en otros casos.
Otros 17 estados han permitido que los distritos y escuelas decidan si participan en la inscripción abierta. En esos casos, las familias deben solicitar y recibir la aprobación del distrito escolar para usar la inscripción abierta.
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Fuente: Comisión de Educación de los Estados, 2019
Alabama:
En la mayoría de los estados, las familias tienen algunas opciones de “inscripción abierta” para escuelas públicas, pero Alabama no ofrece inscripción abierta. Lo que esto significa es que Alabama no les permite a los padres elegir escuelas públicas tradicionales fuera de las escuelas asignadas a sus niños por sus distritos. Si elige una escuela pública tradicional, es probable que deba ser la escuela asignada por su distrito.
Gasto promedio por estudiante en las escuelas públicas de Alabama: $10,077.
Alaska:
Alaska tiene leyes limitadas de inscripción abierta para escuelas públicas. Lo que esto significa es que los padres de estudiantes asignados a una escuela particular del vecindario en algunos casos pueden ser capaces de transferir a sus hijos a otra escuela en su distrito. En otros casos, se puede requerir que los niños asistan a la escuela que les asignó su distrito. Póngase en contacto con su distrito escolar para información.
Gasto promedio por alumno en las escuelas públicas de Alaska: $18,394.
Arizona:
Arizona tiene una inscripción abierta sin restricciones para la escuela pública. Lo que esto significa es que puede enviar a su hijo a cualquier escuela pública en Arizona, independientemente de dónde viva o dónde se encuentre la escuela. Puede aprovechar esta opción visitando varias escuelas públicas cercanas y descubriendo cuál es la mejor opción para su familia.
Las políticas de inscripción abierta de cada distrito incluyen disposiciones de transporte. Estas siempre incluyen transportación hasta 20 millas cada vía, para estudiantes con una discapacidad o IEP, y puede incluir otros estudiantes también.
En Arkansas, tiene leyes limitadas de inscripción abierta para escuelas públicas. “Inscripción abierta” se refiere a si a los padres se les permite enviar a sus hijos a cualquier escuela pública, independientemente de dónde se encuentren. En Arkansas, existen algunos límites para la inscripción abierta, pero las familias pueden transferirse a una escuela pública de elección más allá de la escuela de su vecindario.
En particular, las familias en Arkansas pueden usar inscripción abierta para transferir de una escuela pública con peligros académicos a una escuela pública que no tiene peligros académicos. Si desea participar en la inscripción abierta, comuníquese con su distrito local.
Generalmente, el transporte no está cubierto por la escuela que usa inscripción abierta a selección, a menos que el distrito escolar esté en peligro de instalaciones o que un acuerdo especial se haga entre los distritos recibiendo y enviando.
Gasto promedio por alumno en las escuelas públicas de Arkansas: $10,388.
California:
En California, los padres de estudiantes asignados a escuelas públicas de bajo rendimiento pueden transferir a sus hijos a otra escuela basados en las leyes de inscripción abierta del estado. Los distritos escolares en California pueden también establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta, de manera que los padres puedan consultar con su distrito local para obtener más información.
Los padres pueden requerir que la escuela que ellos elijan mediante la inscripción abierta proporcione asistencia de transporte.
Gasto promedio por alumno en las escuelas públicas de California: $14,035.
Colorado:
Colorado tiene inscripción abierta sin restricciones para escuelas públicas. Lo que esto significa es que puede enviar a su hijo a cualquier escuela pública en Colorado, independientemente de dónde viva o dónde se encuentre la escuela. Puede aprovechar esta importante opción visitando varias escuelas públicas cercanas y descubriendo cuál es la mejor opción para su familia.
Connecticut tiene restringida la inscripción abierta para la escuela pública. Lo que esto significa es que los padres en algunas ciudades de Connecticut pueden elegir escuelas públicas tradicionales fuera de sus distritos. Esto se aplica en Hartford, Bridgeport, New Haven, y New London, y puede ser aplicado en otras ciudades. Si desea participar en inscripción abierta, comuníquese con su distrito local para obtener más información. Si vive en un área de Connecticut con inscripción abierta, puede tomar ventaja de esta opción visitando múltiples escuelas públicas cercanas a usted y descubriendo cuál es la mejor opción para su familia.
Gasto promedio por alumno en Connecticut: $21,310.
Delaware:
Delaware tiene inscripción abierta sin restricciones para escuelas públicas. Lo que esto significa es que puede enviar a su hijo a cualquier escuela pública en Delaware, independientemente de dónde viva o dónde se encuentre la escuela. Puede aprovechar esta valiosa opción visitando varias escuelas públicas cercanas y descubriendo cuál es la mejor opción para su familia. Los padres son responsables del transporte de los estudiantes que participan en la inscripción abierta. Los padres son responsables por la transportación de los estudiantes participando en inscripción abierta.
Florida tiene una inscripción abierta sin restricciones para la escuela pública. Lo que esto significa es que puede enviar a su hijo a cualquier escuela pública en La Florida, independientemente de dónde viva o dónde se encuentre la escuela. Generalmente, los padres son responsables por el transporte de los estudiantes participando en inscripción abierta. Encuentre todavía más información aquí.
Georgia tiene inscripción abierta restringida para escuela pública. Lo que esto significa es que las familias en Georgia pueden enviar a sus hijos a cualquier escuela pública dentro de su distrito escolar. En algunos casos, las familias pueden también considerar escuelas públicas fuera de su distrito escolar; comuníquese con su distrito escolar para más información. Los padres son responsables por el transporte de los estudiantes participando en la inscripción abierta.
En Hawaii, el sistema del distrito escolar está dividido en 15 “áreas complejas.” Los padres en Hawaii deben ponerse en contacto con su distrito sobre sus pólizas de inscripción abierta, y su ellos pueden considerar escuelas fuera de su área asignada.
Idaho tiene inscripción abierta sin restricciones para la escuela pública. Lo que esto significa es que usted puede enviar a su hijo a cualquier escuela en Idaho independientemente de dónde viva o dónde se encuentre la escuela. Puede aprovechar esta valiosa opción visitando varias escuelas públicas cercanas y descubriendo cuál es la mejor opción para su familia. Los padres son responsables para el transporte de los estudiantes participando en la inscripción abierta.
Illinois tiene leyes de inscripción abierta bastante flexibles. En muchos casos, puede visitar varias escuelas y elegir la mejor para usted. Los padres en Illinois pueden escoger cualquier escuela pública tradicional dentro de su distrito pero deben consultar con su distrito local para obtener más información.
Cada estado tiene sus propias reglas de inscripción abierta. Inscripción abierta se refiere a si los padres pueden enviar a sus hijos a cualquier escuela pública, independientemente de dónde esté localizada. En Indiana, los padres tienen inscripción abierta restringida; por lo tanto, los estudiantes pueden solicitar la transferencia a cualquier escuela pública de su elección, siempre que la escuela tenga una política que permita la inscripción abierta. En particular, los padres pueden solicitar que su hijo se transfiera a otro distrito si hay condiciones de hacinamiento en su escuela actual o si otra escuela ofrece un plan de estudios importante para las aspiraciones vocacionales de su hijo. Si desea participar en la inscripción abierta, comuníquese con su distrito local para obtener más información.
Recientemente hubo un cambio de ley para la edad de admisión al jardínescolar. Encuentre un poco mas de detalles aquí.
Iowa tiene inscripción abierta sin restricciones para la escuela pública. De acuerdo con las leyes reciente de Iowa, un padre puede elegir cualquier escuela pública tradicional en su distrito o en otro distrito. Algunos estudiantes que participan en la inscripción abierta, incluidos aquellos que cumplen con ciertas pautas de ingresos, tienen proporcionado el transporte a la escuela pública de su elección por el distrito asignado.
Algunos distritos escolares en Kansas pueden permitir inscripción abierta. Como los distritos establecen sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta en Kansas, los padres deben consultar con su distrito local para más información. Cuando un estudiante participa en inscripción abierta, los dos distritos escolares deben elaborar un plan de transporte para compartir los gastos entre ellos mismos.
Kentucky tiene inscripción abierta restringida para escuela pública. Lo que esto significa es que, en muchos casos, usted puede enviar a su hijo a una escuela pública en su distrito que no sea la que le fue asignada. En algunos casos, usted puede elegir una escuela pública en otro distrito. Si desea participar en inscripción abierta, comuníquese con su distrito local para obtener más información.
En la mayoría de los casos en Louisiana, cada distrito decide si participará en inscripción abierta. Por lo tanto, los padres en Louisiana deben consultar con su distrito escolar si desean participar en la inscripción abierta. El estado requiere que los distritos ofrezcan inscripción en solo en ciertas circunstancias, como cuando los estudiantes desean transferirse de una escuela en dificultades académicas a una escuela que no está en dificultades académicas.
Maine tiene inscripción abierta restringida para las escuelas públicas. En Maine, el estado le permite a los distritos establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Por lo tanto, los padres en Maine deben consultar con su distrito si desean transferir a su hijo a una escuela pública diferente. Si la razón por la cual una familia participa en la inscripción abierta en otro distrito es porque su distrito no ofrece una escuela, su distrito provee transporte. En otras situaciones, los padres son responsables del transporte.
En Massachusetts, cada distrito decide si participará en inscripción abierta. Si está interesado en transferir a su niño a una escuela pública diferente a la que le asignaron, usted debe de hablar con su distrito local para informarse si está disponible para usted. Los padres son generalmente responsables por el transporte cuando su estudiante está participando en inscripción abierta, a menos que la transferencia aborde desequilibrios raciales o que el estudiante califique para almuerzo gratis o reducido.
Gasto promedio por alumno en Massachusetts: $17,748.
Michigan:
Algunos estados tienen inscripción abierta sin restricciones, lo que significa que puede enviar a su hijo a cualquier escuela pública, independientemente de dónde viva o dónde se encuentra la escuela. En Michigan, hay restricciones para inscripción abierta. Dependiendo del distrito y del desempeño de su escuela, los padres pueden tener la opción de transferir a su hijo a una escuela pública diferente, y son responsables de transportar a su hijo a esa escuela.
Minnesota tiene inscripción abierta bastante flexible, lo cual se refiere a si un padre puede escoger enviar a su hijo a una escuela pública que no sea la asignada por el distrito escolar. En Minnesota, los padres pueden elegir una escuela pública tradicional en otro distrito. En la mayoría de las transferencias a escuelas en un distrito diferente, el distrito escolar receptor proporciona el transporte una vez que el estudiante está dentro de los límites del distrito y puede reembolsar el ingreso a los estudiantes elegibles por viajar allí.
En Mississippi, el estado permite que cada distrito establezca sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta; el estado solo requiere que los distritos ofrezcan inscripción abierta si los padres viven a 30 millas de la escuela asignada. Cuando se llega a un acuerdo entre los distritos escolares que permite a un estudiante participar en la inscripción abierta, debe incluir provisiones de transporte.
En Missouri, los padres tienen inscripción abierta restringida. Algunos padres en Missouri, tales como esos que viven en los distritos escolares que han perdido la acreditación estatal, pueden escoger cualquier escuela pública tradicional en otro distrito para su hijo. En algunos casos, incluyendo cuando se transfieren de una escuela que es escuela pública que no está acreditada, el distrito provee el transporte.
En Montana, el estado permite que cada distrito establezca sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta; el estado solo requiere que los distritos ofrezcan inscripción abierta si los padres viven demasiado lejos de la escuela asignada de sus hijos. Inscripción abierta se refiere a si los padres pueden escoger por enviar a sus hijos a cualquier escuela pública, sin importar donde está localizada. Los padres en Montana deben revisar con su distrito escolar local si ellos desean participar en inscripción abierta. Cuando se hace un acuerdo entre distritos escolares permitiendo que un estudiante participe en inscripción abierta, eso incluye las provisiones de transporte.
Nebraska tiene inscripción abierta sin restricciones para las escuelas públicas. Lo que esto significa es que usted puede enviar a su hijo a cualquier escuela pública de su elección en Nebraska, independientemente de dónde viva o dónde se encuentra la escuela. Puede tomar ventaja de esta opción visitando varias escuelas públicas cercanas y descubriendo cuál es la mejor opción para su familia.
El transporte es típicamente la responsabilidad de los padres, o proporcionada por el distrito receptor por una tarifa, únicamente que el estudiante sea elegible para almuerzo gratis o precio reducido, parte de un programa de enfoque de diversidad, o un estudiante con discapacidades de aprendizaje, en cuyo caso el transporte es típicamente gratis.
Cada estado tiene sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Inscripción abierta se refiere a si los padres pueden enviar a sus hijos a cualquier escuela pública, independientemente de donde está localizada. En Nevada, cada distrito establece sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. De manera que, los padres en Nevada deben revisar con su distrito local si a ellos les gustaría transferir a su hijo. Si ellos eligen participar en inscripción abierta, la escuela a la cual fueron asignados cubrirá los costos del transporte.
En New Hampshire, el estado permite a cada distrito decidir establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Inscripción abierta se refiere a si los padres pueden enviar a sus niños a cualquier escuela pública, independientemente donde este localizada. Los padres en New Hampshire que desean transferir a su hijo a una escuela pública diferente que a la que fue asignado, deben ponerse en contacto con su distrito escolar local para ver si esto es una opción. Si la escuela pública elegida está dentro del mismo distrito, el transporte será proporcionado. Si es en diferente distrito escolar, los padres son responsables por el transporte.
Gasto promedio por alumno en New Hampshire: $17,462.
New Jersey:
En New Jersey, el estado permite que cada distrito decida establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Los padres en New Jersey que desean transferir a su hijo a diferente escuela pública que a la que fue asignado, deben ponerse en contacto con su distrito escolar local para ver si esta es una opción para ellos. Para estudiantes viviendo a más distancia que 2 o 2.5 millas de su escuela pública de su elección pero más cerca que 20 millas, el distrito emisor es responsable por transportar al niño a su nueva escuela. Encuentre más informacion de elección de escuela entre distritos aquí.
Nuevo Mexico tiene inscripción abierta restringida. En New Mexico, Los padres que viven cerca de escuelas de bajo rendimiento pueden transferir a sus hijos a otra escuela dentro o fuera de su distrito. Los padres en otras circunstancias deben consultar con su distrito escolar local. Si un estudiante que participa en la inscripción abierta está eligiendo una escuela diferente dentro del mismo distrito, el distrito proporcionará transporte o reembolsará los costos a los padres. Si la familia selecciona una escuela en un distrito escolar diferente, los padres son responsables por el transporte.
En Nueva York, cada distrito decide si participarán en inscripción abierta. Inscripción abierta es una opción valiosa que se refiere a si los padres pueden enviar a sus hijos a cualquier escuela pública, independientemente de donde se encuentre o cual sea su código postal. Si a usted le gustaría participar en inscripción abierta, consulte con su distrito escolar local para ver si está disponible.
La mayoría de los estados tienen alguna forma de inscripción abierta, lo cual se refiere a si los padres pueden enviar a sus hijos a una escuela pública diferente a la escuela que fueron asignados. Desafortunadamente, Carolina del Norte no tiene actualmente inscripción abierta para escuelas públicas.
Gasto promedio por alumno en North Carolina: $9,857.
North Dakota:
En Dakota del Norte el estado permite que cada distrito decida establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Los padres en North Dakota que desean transferir a sus hijos a diferente escuela pública que a la que fueron asignados, deben ponerse en contacto con su distrito escolar local para ver si eso es una opción.
Gasto promedio por alumno en North Dakota: $14,004.
Ohio:
Ohio tiene inscripción abierta restringida para escuelas públicas. Basado en las leyes de Ohio, un padre puede o no ser capaz de escoger una escuela pública tradicional en otro distrito. Revise con su distrito escolar local si usted desea participar en inscripción abierta. En la mayoría de los casos, los padres son responsables por el transporte a la nueva escuela pública de elección, o al menos por llevar a su estudiante a una parada de autobús regular a lo largo de la ruta de la escuela. Las familias de bajo ingreso o esos participando en un plan de desegregación aprobado por la corte pueden ser reembolsados por el transporte a esa parada de ómnibus o proporcionar transporte directamente, respectivamente. Puede contactar alguna organización hispana local que le ayude a navegar el sistema.
En Oklahoma, estudiantes pueden pedir cambio a una escuela en cualquier distrito, independientemente donde vivan. El estado permite que cada distrito decida establecer sus propias políticas de limites de capacidad en la inscripción abierta. Si la solucitud es denegada, padres de familia pueden apelar a la junta directiva escolar para que se reconsidere su caso.
Si los padres lo solicitan, sus hijos pueden ser transportados por la escuela pública de su elección desde una parada dentro del distrito escolar de esa escuela, siempre que los padres los transporten a la ruta del distrito. Alternativamente, el distrito escolar asignado puede crear un acuerdo con el nuevo distrito escolar para cooperar en el transporte.
Desafortunadamente, Oregon no tiene actualmente inscripción abierta para escuelas públicas. Si usted escoge una escuela pública tradicional, lo más probable que sea la escuela asignada por su distrito.
El estado de Oregon estableció una inscripción abierta temporal entre los distritos escolares en el 2012 para apoyar la elección de la escuela, pero la política terminó en el 2019. Si bien la inscripción abierta no está disponible a las familias de Oregon, aun pueden solicitar una transferencia entre distritos.
En Pensilvania, el estado permite que cada distrito decida establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Inscripción abierta se refiere a si los padres pueden enviar a sus hijos a cualquier escuela pública, independientemente de donde esté localizada. Los padres en Pensilvania que desean transferir a su hijo a una escuela pública diferente que a la que le fue asignada deben ponerse en comunicación con su distrito escolar local.
Gasto promedio por alumno en Pennsylvania: $16,564.
Rhode Island:
En Rhode Island, el estado permite que cada distrito decida establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Los padres en Rhode Island que desean transferir a su hijo a diferente escuela pública de la que le fue asignada, debe ponerse en contacto con el distrito escolar local para ver si eso es una opción. En algunos casos, el estado provee transporte para los estudiantes que asisten a una escuela fuera de su ciudad o pueblo.
Gasto promedio por alumno en Rhode Island: $16,750.
South Carolina:
En Carolina del Sur, el estado permite que cada distrito decida establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Los padres en Carolina del Sure que quieren transferir a su hijo a una escuela pública diferente de la que le fue asignada deben comunicarse con su distrito escolar local para ver si eso es una opción.
Gasto promedio por alumno en South Carolina: $11,140.
South Dakota:
South Dakota tiene inscripción abierta sin restricciones para escuelas públicas. Lo que esto significa es que puede enviar a su hijo a cualquier escuela pública de su elección en South Dakota, independientemente de dónde viva o dónde se encuentre la escuela. Usted puede aprovechar esta opción visitando varias escuelas públicas cercanas y descubriendo cuál es la mejor opción para su familia.
Gasto promedio por alumno en South Dakota $10,139.
Tennessee:
En Tennessee, se aprobo una ley nueva en la primavera de 2021 que exige a todos los distritos del estado que creen inscripcion abierta para todos los estudiantes para el otoño del 2022. Los padres que quieren transferir a su hijo a una escuela pública diferente que a la que le fue asignada, deben ponerse en contacto con su distrito escolar local para explorar las opciones.
En Texas, el estado permite que cada distrito decida establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Los padres que quieren transferir a su hijo a una escuela pública diferente que a la que le fue asignada, deben ponerse en contacto con su distrito escolar local para ver si eso es una opción. Si los estudiantes son elegibles para el Subsidio para Educación Pública de Texas, sus costos de transportación serán cubiertos por las escuelas asignadas previamente.
Utah tiene una inscripción abierta sin restricciones para la escuela pública. Lo que esto significa es que puede enviar a su hijo a cualquier escuela pública en Utah, independientemente de dónde viva o dónde se encuentre la escuela. Generalmente, los padres son responsables por el transporte a la escuela pública de su elección, o a una parada en la ruta del autobús del distrito. En algunos casos, la escuela previamente asignada proporcionará transporte si están tratando de aliviar el hacinamiento.
Familias en el area de Salt Lake City pueden encontrar mucha informacion aqui.
Vermont tiene inscripción abierta sin restricciones para la escuela pública. Lo que esto significa es que puede enviar a su hijo a cualquier escuela pública en Vermont, independientemente de dónde viva o dónde se encuentre la escuela.
En Virginia, el estado permite que cada distrito decida establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Los padres que deseen transferir a su hijo a una escuela pública diferente deben comunicarse con su distrito escolar local para ver si eso es posible.
Washington tiene inscripción abierta restringida para escuelas públicas. Según las leyes de Washington, depende el distrito el que uno vive el que un padre puede o no elegir una escuela pública tradicional en otro distrito. Consulte con su distrito escolar local si desea participar en la inscripción abierta.
En West Virginia, el estado permite que cada distrito decida establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Inscripción abierta se refiere a si los padres pueden enviar a sus hijos a cualquier escuela pública, independientemente de dónde se encuentre. La inscripción abierta es una forma importante en que los padres tienen acceso a una variedad más amplia de escuelas públicas; si desea participar en la inscripción abierta, comuníquese con su distrito escolar para saber si esta es una opción disponible para usted.
Gasto promedio por alumno en West Virginia: $12,915
Wisconsin:
Wisconsin tiene inscripción abierta restringida para la escuela pública. Según las leyes de Wisconsin, un padre puede o no elegir una escuela pública tradicional de su elección en otro distrito. Consulte con su distrito escolar local si desea participar en la inscripción abierta. Los padres son generalmente responsables por transportar a su hijo a la escuela pública de su elección, pero debe proporcionarlo si un estudiante tiene una discapacidad. Los padres de bajos ingresos pueden solicitar un reembolso estatal por los costos de transporte. Los distritos también pueden colaborar para proporcionar transporte, encuentre mas informacion aqui.
En Wyoming, el estado permite que cada distrito decida establecer sus propias políticas de inscripción abierta. Los padres que deseen transferir a su hijo a una escuela pública diferente a la que se les asignó deben comunicarse con su distrito escolar local para ver si esta es una opción.
Comparta estos datos sobre las Escuelas Públicas de Elección
Fuentes: The School Choice Roadmap, por Andrew Campanella
Descargue y comparta datos de estas escuelas aquí.
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La información en esta guía de escuelas de elección pública está diseñada para ayudar a las familias que están considerando la educación pública en su proceso de hacer decisiones. Nuestra misión es proporcionar a las familias la información que necesitan sobre todas las opciones escolares disponibles: pública tradicional, chárter pública, magnet pública, privada, en línea y en el hogar, para que puedan elegir la opción adecuada para su hijo. Para obtener más guías sobre cómo elegir otro tipo de escuelas, haga clic aquí.
