If your child is eligible for the Choice school program, you can determine eligibility using a variety of factors, including family income, prior year attendance, residency, and age for students entering grades K4 to 1. Private schools cannot use race or ethnicity, or grade level, or recommendations from parents. However, they must accept all Choice applications during open enrollment periods. Once you have determined eligibility, you can begin the application process. To start the application process, visit the website of your district’s choice program and fill out the Online Parent Application.
The Choice program began in New York City in 2003 and has since expanded to other states. The state pays the Choice school for each child eligible for the program. Payments are sent on the third Friday of September and the second Friday of January. To make the application process easier, the state’s Choice office helps families fill out the online form. After you’ve filled out the application form, contact the choice school to determine eligibility requirements. If your child qualifies, the Choice program will send you an acceptance letter.
While there are many advantages to Open Choice, it’s important to keep in mind that the program will only work if both parties are committed to the idea. As with any other program, students, parents, and choice districts are all beneficiaries. Some choice districts have smaller class sizes, increased instructional time, and a culture that fosters academic and social success. Many have even set up innovative programs, including STEM courses. While enrollment is lower in these districts, they can still draw students from nearby districts.
