Iowa’s private schools, particularly Catholic institutions, have witnessed an unprecedented surge in student enrollment this academic year, thanks to the state’s voucher system. With over 25,000 new students enrolled, two-thirds are utilizing the state-funded Educational Savings Accounts (ESAs), a key component of the Students First Act signed into law by Governor Kim Reynolds nearly two years ago. This initiative has allowed families to apply public funds towards private schooling, resulting in a major shift in the state’s educational landscape.
State Vouchers Fuel Enrollment Growth
According to the Iowa Catholic Conference, Catholic schools in the state have experienced a substantial boost in enrollment, up by about 25,000 students. Xavier Catholic Schools in Cedar Rapids, for instance, saw a 3% increase in total enrollment this year, with 61% of families using an ESA—an impressive 24% rise from the previous year. As reported by KCRG.com, Chris McCarville, president of Xavier Catholic Schools, expressed gratitude for the surge, noting that the voucher system has provided many families with access to education they could otherwise not afford.
Voucher Program’s Financial Impact
The state’s voucher program has allocated nearly $320 million in funding this year, with each participating student receiving up to $7,800 in state support for private school tuition. This funding has enabled thousands of families to make the transition from public to private education, contributing to a growing trend of students leaving the public system. Last year alone, more than 41,000 Iowa students transferred to private schools.
Diversity in Enrollment
The influx of students has also resulted in a more diverse population within Iowa’s private schools. Non-white students, English learners, and students with special needs all saw significant increases, further enriching the educational environment, as noted by McCarville. As reported by KCRG, this diversity aligns with the broader mission of Catholic schools, which aim to serve a global community.
