THE CHALLENGE: Amanda's middle son has autism and complex medical needs. While in public school, he was bullied relentlessly - so much so that he became deeply depressed and began falling behind academically. Despite repeated efforts to get help, he did not receive the support he needed. As a single-income household with three children, including one requiring ongoing medical care, Amanda faced significant financial constraints and limited options for finding a better environment. THE TURNING POINT: With the help of the Opportunity Scholarship and ESA , Amanda's son was able to enroll in a school specifically designed for children with autism. For the first time, he was in a setting built to support how he learns, with smaller class sizes, individualized attention, and a community that understands his needs. WHAT THIS HAS MEANT: “The Opportunity Scholarship has literally saved my son’s life. He loves his school. He is happy, thriving, and excited to learn again. This support ensures that our financial situation doesn't limit his access to a high-quality education.” Improved grades and a child who loves to learn again - only because his mom found a school that fit his needs. That's the real power of school choice.

Fixed it for you, @nytimes.

🎉We want to wish Lea McQueen, a member of our Parent Liaison Team, a happy birthday! For the past four years, Lea has been a vital part of the PEFNC family! Whether it's helping parents navigate their educational options or keeping parents informed about legislation that could shape school choice, Lea is often the friendly voice guiding families every step of the day. 🗣️ She says, "I love being a part of a team of people dedicated to enriching the lives of children! What we do is priceless! Educating parents, teachers, and school administrators on K-12 scholarships and the possibilities associated with school choice means that we have a positive impact on thousands of families each year! I'm grateful to be able to play a part in that."

The state that pioneered powered flight is now powering ahead on education freedom! Thrilled to see North Carolina join those unlocking more opportunities for students through the Education Freedom Tax Credit. Thanks to the legislature for standing strong for Tar Heel families!

THE CHALLENGE: Stephen's family of five is classified as Tier 3 based on gross income, but their reality looks very different. After taxes, high insurance premiums, and the ongoing costs of caring for a medically complex child, their available income is significantly reduced. Like many families, rising costs for everyday necessities have made it increasingly difficult to keep up. THE TURNING POINT: The Opportunity Scholarship has made it possible for this family to choose a private school where their two children are now thriving. This option would not have been financially attainable otherwise. WHAT THIS HAS MEANT: "The Opportunity Scholarship has been a huge help and a blessing to our family. Without it, we would not be able to send our kids to their school." In a time of rising costs and competing financial demands, the Opportunity Scholarship is allowing families to prioritize an educational environment where their children are supported and succeeding.

ICYMI: AFC Applauds North Carolina General Assembly for Overriding Veto, Opting State in to Education Freedom Tax Credit Statement from @RyankCantrell, Chief State Strategy Officer, @SchoolChoiceNow: “Governor Stein’s veto was a disappointment, given the opportunity the Education Freedom Tax Credit presents to help North Carolina families. The General Assembly’s vote to override the veto expands families’ access to the schools where their children can best thrive and critical education resources. We commend @SenatorBerger, Speaker @DestinHall, and legislative leaders across the aisle for their commitment to school choice and expanding North Carolina’s vision for education freedom.” Our Full Statement: federationforchildren.org/no…

Today’s veto override of House Bill 87 marks a historic step forward for North Carolina families. By opting into the federal Education Choice Tax Credit program, our state is embracing a common sense policy that expands opportunity, strengthens parental choice, and aligns North Carolina with a growing national movement to ensure education dollars follow students, not systems. With this vote, North Carolina lawmakers have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring families can access every available tool to support their children, no matter how or where they learn best. PEFNC stands ready to help ensure this program is implemented in a way that maximizes benefit to students across our state. #ncpol #nced

Ever wondered what school choice really means and why it’s a big deal here in North Carolina? Whether you’re just curious or looking for options for your family, this read breaks it down simply and clearly. Check it out! 👩‍🏫📘 pefnc.org/blog_june_2_2025

📚 The Department of Defense has launched a review of how it supports homeschooling for military families, aiming to expand flexibility, improve resources, and uphold educational freedom — strengthening both family life and force readiness. #MilitaryFamilies #SchoolChoice #Homeschooling

As we wrap up the school year, this quote reminds us: education isn’t one-size-fits-all. When families are involved in choosing the right educational environment, students engage, grow, and thrive. School choice empowers families to be involved in a child’s learning journey from the very start.

“Every parent should be able to have their children in the setting that best suits their family and the needs of each of their children.” For Mandy’s family in Fayetteville, the Opportunity Scholarship means access to a Christian education and real choices for their children’s future. Students deserve better. #ncpol #nced

We welcome the State Auditor’s review of the Opportunity Scholarship Program and believe transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining public trust. The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority has a long track record - more than 60 years - as a proven and trusted agency helping North Carolinians pay for education. As the NC General Assembly continues to make historic investments in educational freedom for North Carolina families, it is important to ensure those resources are safeguarded, administered responsibly, and positioned for long-term success so students can continue to benefit for years to come. #ncpol

"Did you apply for ESA but never receive an award because funding ran out? Or were you unable to apply because the application window closed on March 2? We need to hear from you. Behind every application is a student, a family, and a need that still exists. We are collecting stories from North Carolina families who are still waiting for access to ESA so lawmakers can better understand the real impact on students across our state. If this was your experience, please share your story with us in the comments, by message, or by emailing us at info@pefnc.org #nced

Today, we remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice defending American freedom - and we honor the families who carry their legacy every single day. A few years ago, we had the privilege of sharing Jessica's story. She and her daughters are a Gold Star family, carrying the unimaginable loss of a husband and father. Jessica was left to navigate life's biggest decisions on her own, including choosing the educational path for her daughters. This Memorial Day, we invite you to watch her powerful story.: youtube.com/watch?v=gba8-KW-…"

A great piece from @DonnaKingCJ of the @CarolinaJournal on the progress to bring the education freedom tax credit to North Carolina. Every governor in every state should say yes to this opportunity, and if they stand in the way it's good to see state leaders stepping in like this.

Connie, a retired public school teacher raising her 9-year-old granddaughter, saw quickly that her assigned school wasn’t the right fit. Her granddaughter wasn’t struggling academically - she was bored and unchallenged. With the help of the Opportunity Scholarship, Connie enrolled her in a private school where she is now thriving academically and socially. As Connie puts it: “One size does not fit all.” For her granddaughter, the scholarship made it possible to learn in an environment where she can excel instead of being held back.

Today, the NC House voted to override Governor Stein's veto of House Bill 87, which allows North Carolina to opt into the federal Education Choice Tax Credit program. This move represents a meaningful step forward in expanding educational opportunity, empowers parents, and will increase access to a wider range of educational options and resources. Through the federal program, private philanthropy helps fund scholarships for K12 students, opening doors to new opportunities with zero additional state or federal education spending. All eyes are now on the NC Senate, where they must vote to override the veto before HB 87 becomes law. PEFNC will remain engaged and keep you updated as the legislative process continues.