The Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA) establishes a landmark national school choice program through the federal tax code. While its passage is generating much enthusiasm, a critical revision to the final legislation requires each state to opt in to the program. Governor Ferguson needs to choose to participate for Washington public and private students to receive this education funding.
Set to begin in January 2027, the federal scholarship tax credit allows individuals to direct up to $1,700 of their federal tax liability to fund Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), which then distribute money to students attending public and private schools. This is not a voucher program and is not funded by any state dollars. The U.S. Treasury Department administers the program, allowing all citizens who file a tax return to receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for their contributions.
The impact of this program will be the main topic of discussion at the WFIS Board of Directors meeting in September. We urge all member school leaders to exchange ideas, knowledge, and questions so that together we can advocate for the best path forward for all students and schools.
