Does NJ have school choice?

New Jersey celebrated National School Choice Week 2021 with 886 virtual events and activities across the state. Click the button below to learn more about school choice in New Jersey.

Can I put my child in a different school district?

Generally, a child must attend the school district in which he or she resides. School districts can make transfer agreements to accept each others’ students. Under this provision, a child who attends a school that does not meet specific performance criteria may seek to attend another public school in the district.

Is school choice good or bad?

School choice is a bad choice when it is a tool for advancing ideology rather than education. There is evidence, however, that school choice without government regulation does not improve education and can harm disadvantaged students.

Are there any choice schools in New Jersey?

All New Jersey students are eligible to become choice students, regardless of where they live in the state. Students may attend a choice school in another district and county, however the school must be in an approved choice district.

How does interdistrict school choice work in New Jersey?

New Jersey’s Interdistrict Public School Choice Program enables approved choice districts to enroll K-12th grade students who do not reside within their districts without cost to their parents.

How many choice districts are there in New Jersey?

District participation in the program is optional, but requires application to the Department of Education. Once approved, the choice district designates the available seats in specific grades and programs that are open to choice students. There are currently 123 participating Choice Districts in the 2021-22 school year.

How to apply for choice in New Jersey?

Each district has its own choice application. Where choice options are available, any student who resides in New Jersey is eligible to apply. District participation in the program is optional, but requires application to the Department of Education.