Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) is proud to announce the introduction of Senate Bill 64 (SB 64) and Senate Constitutional Amendment 1 (SCA 1), together these companion measures would form the School Choice Flex Account Act of 2025. These bills aim to transform K-12 education in California by empowering parents with the ability to select the accredited school that best suits their child’s unique needs and ensure that education funding follows the student.
“Every child deserves access to a quality education that equips them for a successful future,” said Senator Grove. “The School Choice Flex Account Act of 2025 puts the decision making back into the hands of parents, providing them with greater control over their children’s success. By providing more choices and flexibility, we can help unlock every child’s potential.”
California spends $24,700 per student, well above the national average, but consistently ranks near the bottom in academic achievement among 4th and 8th graders. Despite this significant investment, many parents believe the current system fails to prepare students for college and careers.
Students of color, particularly African American and Latino students, disproportionately face challenges in meeting grade-level standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics. Many students must go to underperforming schools because their zip code determines the school they must attend. Additionally, current policies often exclude students in special education programs from attending religious private schools with funding assistance, leaving families without sufficient options.
These measures are in alignment with President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order announced earlier today, which emphasized the importance of expanding educational opportunities for all students. Senator Grove’s School Choice Flex Account Act of 2025 aligns with the national efforts to ensure parents have a direct role in determining the best educational path for their children. This legislation would support and enhance federal initiatives that advocate for student-centered learning environments.
If passed, Senate Bill 64 would provide the following for California students:
- Individualized Flex Accounts:
- Establishes a School Choice Flex Account providing $8,000 for tuition and education-related expenses.
- Creates a Special Education Flex Account offering $16,000 for students with special needs.
- Funds are specific to each school year, with unused balances reverting to the state’s General Fund for K-12 education.
- Supporting Existing Public Schools:
- Local and federal funding will remain allocated to public schools, increasing per-pupil spending for students who continue in their local schools.
- Accountability and Accessibility:
- Ensures that all funds are utilized for accredited educational institutions, providing parents with confidence and transparency.
SB 64 and SCA 1 aim to deliver a more all-encompassing and dynamic education system. These measures would ensure that:
- Students can access schools tailored to their learning styles and goals.
- Public schools retain critical funding to support their students.
- Families of all backgrounds have equal opportunities to seek quality education, including those in special education programs.
About National School Choice Week
Observed annually, National School Choice Week highlights the importance of educational options for families and students across the United States. Senator Grove’s legislation aligns with the week’s mission by advocating for expanded opportunities in education for California students.