The Iowa Senate passed legislation establishing the Student First Scholarship Program. This new program is the first of its kind in Iowa and would help families currently trapped in failing schools find additional education opportunities that best fit their learning needs. There are currently an estimated 10,000 students who would be eligible for the scholarship.
SF 159 creates flexible accounts that empower families to pursue the education options best suited to their individual needs – whether that is tuition, curriculum, tutoring, therapies or other educational services. If passed, Iowa would become the sixth state to offer education scholarship accounts.
“All Iowa families – regardless of income or ZIP code – deserve the freedom to explore all education options for their children. This legislation promises to open opportunities for families and students around the state to select the best path toward success in school and in life. When students thrive, the entire state benefits.
“I applaud Governor Kim Reynolds for prioritizing this in her education agenda, as well as Senator Amy Sinclair and Senator Brad Zaun for their tireless work on behalf of Iowa families.”
Zach Eckert, Legislative Affairs Director, ExcelinEd in Action
Additionally, the bill improves the state’s charter school law. Currently, only two public charter schools operate in the state due to limited pathways to authorization. As written, the bill would allow the State Board of Education to authorize charters.
For more on transformative power of educational opportunities, visit the ExcelinEd policy library.
