School Choice Model Shows Better Results Than Spending Alone, Experts Argue

Despite spending roughly $40 billion annually—approximately $36,000 per student—New York City’s school system continues to struggle with literacy outcomes. Data shows that in 503 of 906 schools studied, most students failed reading and math exams, with only 29% of eighth graders meeting reading proficiency standards, according to state assessments.

Chicago faces similar challenges despite receiving substantial funding increases. In 2025, only 43% of students in grades three through eight met reading proficiency benchmarks, while just 27% achieved math proficiency. Eleventh graders performed even worse, with 40% meeting reading standards and 25% reaching math expectations, alongside chronic absenteeism rates exceeding 40%.

Louisiana offers a contrasting model, recently ranking first nationally in reading growth while implementing education funding policies that prioritize student choice. Republican Governor Jeff Landry and Superintendent Cade Brumley have championed programs directing education dollars toward individual students rather than centralized systems, including the LA GATOR Scholarship Program and expanding charter schools that now enroll approximately one in eight public school students.

Florida’s two-decade experience with school choice demonstrates measurable outcomes. Public schools facing competition from scholarship programs showed improved academic achievement, reduced absenteeism and fewer disciplinary incidents. Charter schools enrolled more than 400,000 students and outperformed district peers in 55 of 77 statewide academic comparisons, with 61% earning A grades statewide.

The evidence suggests structural reform centering on parental choice and competition may produce better academic gains than increasing budgets within existing institutional frameworks. When families can direct education funding and schools must compete for enrollment, accountability increases and innovation accelerates, according to education experts.