Education has always been one of Alabama’s most powerful tools for shaping opportunity. Across the state, parents and educators share a common belief: when a child is equipped with the right environment, guidance and support, their future expands in every direction. Private education remains a vital part of this ecosystem, offering families additional pathways to help their children thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
Why Families Choose Private Education
Private schools across Alabama are anchored in mission-driven values, individualized attention and strong academic culture. With smaller class sizes, students benefit from personalized instruction, mentorship and the ability to build meaningful relationships with teachers. Many schools also offer specialized programs—advanced STEM courses, fine arts tracks, college-prep curriculum and faith-based education—that give families the opportunity to select an environment aligned with their child’s learning style and goals.
Technology integration, state-of-the-art facilities and experiential learning have also been on the rise, with schools investing in innovation to prepare students for a rapidly changing world. Whether through robotics clubs, dual-enrollment courses, character development programs or community partnerships, Alabama’s private schools are continually expanding ways to strengthen student engagement and achievement.
Families seeking a highly customized educational approach often find that private schools are uniquely equipped to provide flexibility and responsiveness. This ability to adapt quickly and intentionally is one of the greatest strengths of private education.
How the CHOOSE Act Fits Into the Landscape
Private education is entering a new chapter, thanks in large part to the rollout of the CHOOSE Act, a sweeping school-choice initiative signed into law in 2024 by Governor Kay Ivey. For the upcoming school year, eligible families can now receive Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)—state-backed funds that empower parents to direct up to $7,000 per student toward tuition and other approved costs at participating private schools, or $2,000 for homeschooling expenses.
In its first two years, CHOOSE Act eligibility is capped for families making no more than 300% of the federal poverty level, which expands access among lower- and middle-income households. Priority is given to students with special education needs and children of active-duty military personnel. By 2027, the income limits will be lifted, ultimately making the program universally available for all K–12 students in Alabama.
High Demand, Big Impact
There has been a high demand for CHOOSE Act ESAs with more than 36,000 students applying in the first window, and over 23,000 having already been approved for funding. That translates into roughly $124 million in state-supported education savings—an early signal that many families are eager for more control over how their children are educated.
What Families Should Know About the CHOOSE Act for 2026
● Next ESA application window opens January 2026
● Income cap remains in place for next year but is set to be removed by 2027
● ESAs can be used for tuition, textbooks, tutoring, therapies, and testing
Across Alabama, private schools continue to serve as strong partners in student success. The expanding landscape of school choice offers families more ways than ever to find the right fit for their child. And while policies and programs may evolve, the true impact of education endures: it opens doors, builds character and lays the foundation for a lifetime of possibilities. Check out a few of our local private school making a big difference for their students.
Montgomery Academy
The Montgomery Academy (MA) is more than a school—it’s a community dedicated to developing leaders committed to honor, scholarship, service and the pursuit of excellence. Serving K–12 students across the River Region, MA nurtures academic, artistic and athletic achievement on two campuses: the Lower School on Perry Hill Road for Grades K–4, and the Middle and Upper School on Vaughn Road for Grades 5–12. With a vibrant culture of learning and growth, The Montgomery Academy empowers students to reach their full potential while cultivating the character and leadership skills that will guide them for a lifetime.
Q&A with Montgomery Academy Head of School, John McWilliams
Trinity Presbyterian School
Trinity Presbyterian School is where faith and academic excellence come together to shape the leaders of tomorrow. Since 1970, the school has provided Christ-centered, college preparatory education grounded in the values of service, integrity, respect, responsibility and growth. At Trinity, students are guided to develop both academically and spiritually, gaining the knowledge, character and purpose needed to lead with conviction and faithfully use their God-given gifts in their communities and beyond.
Q&A with Trinity Presbyterian School Head of School, Suzanne Satcher
Macon East Academy
Macon East Academy is a private, college preparatory school dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing environment that promotes academic excellence, patriotism and faith in God through Christian values. Located just minutes from Chantilly Parkway, we serve families in Pike Road, Montgomery and the surrounding River Region communities.
Q&A with Macon East Academy Headmaster and Coach, Glynn Lott
