About the Webinar:
We apologize that the audio for this session was not usable, and therefore we are unable to provide the video recording. However, the presentation slides are available below.
This session explored how charter schools can position themselves as providers within Florida’s expanding Education Savings Account (ESA) program, which now serves over 120,000 students and generates more than $1 billion annually for educational services. Presenters outlined the approval process for public and charter schools, noting that 26 districts and 13 charter networks have already been onboarded as ESA providers, with many more in process or in discussion.
Participants also examined Florida’s shifting education landscape, where more than half of K–12 students now attend an option of their parent’s choice. Slides highlighted growth in private scholarships, homeschooling, magnet programs, and personalized education programs, underscoring the need for charters to adapt their models. Jacobs and Dwenger stressed that by offering contract-based services to ESA families, charter schools can expand access, diversify funding streams, and better serve students in flexible, innovative ways.
ESAs and Charter Schools: The Next Era of Education Choice
Presenter:
- Keith Jacobs and Kelly Dwenger from Step Up For Students.
Date/Time: September 6, 2025
Conference: 2025 Governance Conference
View The Recording:
Handouts / Slides:
Download File
Session Summary
This session explored how charter schools can engage with Florida’s growing Education Savings Account (ESA) program, which now serves more than 120,000 students and generates over $1 billion annually. Participants learned how schools can become approved ESA providers, adapt to an increasingly choice-driven education landscape, and use contract-based services to expand access, diversify funding, and better serve families.