(The Center Square) — Georgia’s school choice program takes effect during the 2025-2026 school year, and state officials are continuing to prepare a list of eligible schools.
The bill passed the General Assembly and was signed by Gov. Brian Kemp in April after failing in 2023.
Students who attend a low-performing school based on the College and Career Ready Performance Index are eligible for up to $6,500 annually to attend a private school.
The list initially released in early December is under revision. Some schools questioned their addition to the list. Dr. Keith Simmons, superintendent of the Griffin-Spalding County School System, said the list did not show the complete picture of his system’s success.
“While schools within our district are included and by their inclusion are designated as low performing, it is important to note that this is only a snapshot of an evolving story,” Simmons said. This designation does not reflect the full extent of the progress or success taking place within these schools. Nor does it include all schools in the state, as charter schools and private schools are not included.”
An updated list will be posted at a later date in the new year, the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement said on its website.
“GOSA is conducting a very careful, thorough, and conscientious analysis and validation process to ensure the school list is accurate,” the office said.
The program prioritizes families making 400% less than the poverty level, estimated at $120,000 for a family of four. The state can only allocate 1% of the Quality Basic Education Funding formula, according to the bill.
Private schools can apply to participate in the program beginning on Jan. 21, according to the Georgia Promise website. March 1 is the day parents can begin applying for their child’s scholarship.
Georgia joins other states in offering school choice. Programs are currently offered in 33 states, but others are considering it, including Georgia’s neighbor to the north.
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee is advocating for a bill that would enact school choice statewide. Lawmakers failed to pass a similar bill earlier this year.
Three county school systems in Tennessee are currently offering school choice in a pilot program.
