Georgia’s School Voucher Program Distributes $7.1 Million

News Summary

Georgia’s new school voucher program has allocated $7.1 million to families to support private education, with eligible families able to receive up to $6,500 per child. The program, aimed at assisting children from low-performing public schools, has notably aided over 8,000 students. Despite its growth and positive reception, concerns arise about potential impacts on public school funding and accessibility for lower-income families. The program requires transparency in educational outcomes and is monitored by the Georgia Education Savings Authority.

Atlanta, Georgia — Georgia’s new school voucher program has made a significant impact, distributing a total of $7.1 million to families seeking funding for private education. Each eligible family can receive up to $6,500 per child per year, aimed at covering private school tuition, homeschooling expenses, and educational resources.

During the fall semester, private schools in 102 cities across Georgia received $5.4 million in state voucher funds, reflecting the program’s growing reach. The funds are not limited to tuition; families can also use the vouchers for educational supplies, with companies like Amazon receiving $302,000 from the program for school materials.

The program particularly focuses on students transitioning out of low-performing public schools, aiding over 8,000 children through the Georgia Promise Scholarship initiative. Families can apply for the vouchers if their children attend public schools that rank in the bottom 25% of state performance metrics. Statistical data indicates that about 52% of the students benefitting from the vouchers are Black, while most of the remaining beneficiaries are predominantly white. Furthermore, approximately 25% of program participants are from families earning more than four times the federal poverty income level, roughly $129,000 for a family of four.

The funding distribution has been noteworthy, with Covington Academy in Newton County receiving the largest share at $120,701, being the only school to surpass the $100,000 mark. The remaining $1.7 million was allocated to 153 educational resources companies participating in the program.

Eligible students can begin utilizing their vouchers soon, as initial quarterly payouts are set to start. It is essential to note that all private schools receiving voucher funding are required to provide standardized testing results and report on student attendance and graduation rates. The performance metrics associated with the program are being monitored by the Georgia Education Savings Authority (GESA), which will present its first report in December 2026.

While the program has garnered enthusiasm, it is not without scrutiny. Critics express concerns that the voucher system might divert essential funds from public schools, potentially diminishing resources available for remaining students. Additionally, there are apprehensions that the vouchers primarily benefit wealthier families who can afford the additional costs associated with private schooling beyond the voucher amount.

Eligibility for the program includes criteria such as residency in Georgia for at least a year and prior enrollment in an eligible public school for at least two consecutive semesters, or being a rising kindergartner. Established in 2024 by legislation signed by Governor Brian Kemp, this program was influenced by pressure from various Republican lawmakers.

To address any grievances regarding the voucher program, a state committee composed of parents from participating families is set to be formed, though operational details are still under discussion. Despite some initial excitement, the program’s effectiveness and the broader interpretation of eligibility rules remain subjects of ongoing debate.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Georgia Recorder
• Augusta Chronicle
• WSBTV
• AP News
• Wikipedia: School Voucher