Access to quality schools is a key factor driving Alabama’s housing market. Families who want to ensure their children attend good schools are limited to specific neighborhoods. Because of the demand for these neighborhoods they often come with high housing costs. The CHOOSE Act removes this barrier by allowing parents to use funds to enroll their children in participating schools of their choice. Whether a family lives in an area with a high-performing public school or a struggling one, they now have options beyond their zip code.
What is the CHOOSE Act?
The CHOOSE Act introduces Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) to support every K-12 student in the state. Funded through refundable income tax credits, ESAs can be used for tuition, fees, and other qualified educational expenses at approved schools or learning programs. This program is designed to empower parents to make the best choice for their child’s education, regardless of where they choose to live.
How ESAs Work
Starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, eligible families will receive up to $7,000 per child enrolled in a participating school. For families opting for homeschooling, co-ops, or non-participating schools, the maximum ESA amount is $4,000. These funds can be used for tuition, textbooks, tutoring, online learning programs, and more, ensuring that education remains accessible and tailored to each child’s needs.
Addressing Failing Schools Without Limiting Housing Choices
In areas with failing schools, families often face tough choices—stay in affordable housing and accept the school their child is zoned for or move to a different, more costly neighborhood with better options. Families that might never be able to afford a home in a more expensive school district can now become homeowners without worrying about an underperforming public school. It opens the possibility for families to purchase more affordable homes without sacrificing their children’s education.
This flexibility can also benefit communities with underperforming schools by making them more attractive to homebuyers. As more families move in and invest in these areas, the increased demand for housing can stimulate local areas and improve property values.
By decoupling education from zip codes, the CHOOSE Act has the potential to reshape Alabama's housing market in a positive way. It encourages families to consider a wider range of housing options, especially in areas that have historically been overlooked due to struggling schools which could create a more affordable housing landscape for Alabamians.
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