school choice

noun

US : a program or policy in which students are given the choice to use public funds to attend a school other than their district's public school (as at a charter school, private school, home school, or at a public school in a different district)

Voucher plans were adopted largely as a last resort, an effort to guarantee a semblance of school choice for low-income minority students in failing inner-city schools.

—Jeffrey Rosen

To be sure, even their most enthusiastic defenders acknowledge that many public schools, especially in big cities are riven with serious problems. The debate over "school choice" and tax vouchers for private schools illustrates the widespread discontent with public schools.

—Dirk Johnson

Examples of school choice in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The news conference, held at Cooper Dual Language Academy, was organized by the Urban Center, a pro-school choice, centrist organizing group. —Audrey Pachuta, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026

As demand continues to grow, state policymakers should remain committed to expanding quality school choice options so every student has the opportunity to thrive. —Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 Apr. 2026

The question that school choice communities must now consider is whether a growing education marketplace can be made to work for everyone – even the most vulnerable children. —Cory Turner, NPR, 19 Apr. 2026

The school choice program offers $10,474 per private school student for the 2026-2027 academic year. —Brieanna J. Frank, USA Today, 11 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1988, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for school choice

• rejoice
• voice