The Iowa Department of Education recently released the 2024 fall certified enrollment numbers, shedding light on the impact of the Students First Education Savings Account program on over 28,000 students across the state. This program, signed into law by Governor Kim Reynolds in 2023, has sparked significant changes in the educational landscape of Iowa, with both public and accredited nonpublic schools experiencing shifts in enrollment trends.
Impact on Public School Enrollment
The certified enrollment numbers for public school districts remained relatively stable, with a total of 480,665 students enrolled, compared to 483,699 the previous year, representing a slight decrease of less than one percent (-0.63%). However, state enrollment projections prior to the implementation of the Students First ESA program indicated a downward trend in public school enrollment starting in the 2023-24 school year, a trend that is expected to continue through at least 2026-27.
Accredited Nonpublic Schools and Education Savings Accounts
On the other hand, certified enrollment at Iowa accredited nonpublic schools saw a significant increase, reaching 39,356 students, up from 36,195 the previous year. This surge in enrollment can be attributed to the Students First ESA program, which allows families to obtain education savings accounts equivalent to the per pupil funds allocated by the state to public school districts each year ($7,635 for the 2023-24 school year).
A total of 27,866 participants utilized their Students First ESA at accredited nonpublic schools as of the Oct. 1 certified enrollment date, highlighting the program’s popularity and impact on school choice in Iowa. Additionally, more than 43,000 public school students engaged in open enrollment, representing about 9% of the total 2024 public school district certified enrollment.
Looking Ahead
The certified enrollment count, taken on the first day of October each year, serves as a crucial determinant for public school funding in the following fiscal year. The fall 2024 numbers will play a pivotal role in shaping public school funding for the 2025-26 school year, underscoring the importance of these enrollment figures in the educational landscape of Iowa.
In a state where education plays a vital role in shaping the future of thousands of students, the Students First ESA program has opened doors to new opportunities and choices for families across Iowa. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, these enrollment numbers offer valuable insights into the changing dynamics of public and nonpublic school enrollment in the state.
Through the lens of these enrollment figures, we can witness the tangible impact of policies like the Students First ESA program on the educational choices and opportunities available to students in Iowa, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive educational landscape that caters to the diverse needs and preferences of families across the state.
