EFA Enrollment Approaches Doubling, Reaches Limit Under New Legislation
On October 10, 2023, a new state law came into effect, significantly expanding access to Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs) for families in New Hampshire. The bill, praised by advocates as a landmark move towards educational choice, has already led to a surge in applications for these taxpayer-funded educational subsidies. According to the Children’s Scholarship Fund of New Hampshire (CSF N.H.), the number of enrolled students has now surpassed 10,000 for the 2025-26 academic year, reaching the cap established by the legislative changes.
Governor Kelly Ayotte emphasized the importance of educational choice during the bill’s signing ceremony, highlighting the positive impact that EFAs can have on student outcomes. This legislation effectively removed income eligibility limits that previously restricted access to the accounts, opening the door for a broader demographic of families to utilize these funds for educational expenses. By allowing families greater flexibility in choosing schools and educational resources, proponents aim to enhance the quality of education available to children in New Hampshire.
The unprecedented enrollment figures represent a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate regarding school choice and educational funding in the state. Critics of the EFA program argue that such initiatives divert crucial state funding away from public schools, potentially leading to resource shortages. However, supporters contend that the program’s success underscores a growing demand for educational alternatives beyond traditional public schooling, particularly amid rising concerns over educational quality and student performance.
State Senator Victoria Sullivan, who was instrumental in drafting the legislation, has noted that the expansion of EFAs is a critical step towards empowering parents in their children’s education. According to Sullivan, the overwhelming response from families indicates a clear desire for greater control over educational choices, reflecting a broader trend advocating for parental involvement in education.
As the program continues to gain momentum, the implications of this law may resonate far beyond New Hampshire. Other states may look to this model as a blueprint for similar initiatives aimed at increasing educational access and choice. The evolving landscape of education funding, combined with shifts in public sentiment, may lead to further legislative changes that prioritize parental choice and student-centered learning environments in the coming years.
The ongoing discussion surrounding EFAs raises important questions about educational equity, funding allocation, and the future of public schooling as families seek greater flexibility in meeting their children’s educational needs. As New Hampshire embarks on this new chapter in educational policy, stakeholders across the spectrum will closely monitor the program’s outcomes and their impact on both students and schools statewide.
