North Carolina Becomes First US State to Join School Choice Programme

North Carolina is the first US state to approve the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), a federal school choice programme.

The ECCA offers a 100% federal tax credit of up to $1,700 per year for individuals donating to scholarship-granting organisations.

Scholarships funded by the ECCA can be used for tuition at private schools, special education services, tutoring, or other approved educational expenses.

The ECCA expands access to private education for low-income families, allowing them to access a broader range of options.

Scholarship eligibility is available to families earning up to 300% of the median income in their area.

The ECCA would benefit students in North Carolina, but its impact on Illinois is uncertain due to its opt-out clause.

Illinois lost a similar programme in 2023, affecting 15,000 students, highlighting the need for alternative education options.

Residents of Illinois may still contribute to students in other states that have joined the ECCA programme.

Concerns about academic performance in Illinois highlight the need for alternative education options for low-income students.

The ECCA offers a new opportunity for low-income families in North Carolina to access private education, tutoring, and special education services.