Connecticut School Choice
Connecticut school choice includes charter schools, magnet schools, and inter-district open enrollment. However, the state does not fund private school tuition. It offers no vouchers, Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), or tax-credit scholarships. Although some proposals have emerged over the years, none have moved forward in the legislature. Public school choice options are tuition-free and offer transportation at no cost to families.
Program Types & Funding Mechanism
- Public School Options
- Charter Schools: These public schools operate independently and receive state funding. They provide alternative learning models across several communities.
- Inter-District Open Enrollment: Students can apply to attend public schools outside their home district. Participation depends on space and local agreements.
- Magnet Schools: Designed to promote diversity and innovation, magnet schools offer themed programs and serve students from multiple districts.
- Regional Vocational-Technical Centers: Connecticut also operates a network of technical high schools that focus on career-oriented education.
- Private School Funding
Connecticut does not fund private school education. It has no vouchers, ESAs, or tax-credit scholarship programs. State law and long-standing policy restrict the use of public dollars for private tuition. Although private-school choice has occasionally entered policy discussions, no formal program has been established.
Choosing the Right Program for Your Family
Connecticut’s school choice landscape is primarily public-focused. Here’s guidance based on common family situations:
Families Seeking Private School Tuition Help
Apply to Kids’ Scholarship Fund for need-based assistance (K-8 only). However, be aware that Connecticut has the highest private school tuition in the nation (average $23,900-$42,032), and KSF scholarships (up to $2,100) cover only a small fraction. Families must plan to pay the majority of tuition out-of-pocket or negotiate additional financial aid directly with schools.
Families Seeking Different Public School Options
Best Options: Open Choice (inter-district transfer with free transportation), Magnet Schools (themed specialized programs), or Charter Schools (alternative learning models). All are completely free with no income requirements.
Families Transferring from Urban to Suburban Schools
Best Option: Open Choice Program allows urban students to attend suburban public schools tuition-free with transportation provided. Be prepared for potentially long commute times (1-2 hours each way).
Families Seeking Specialized Programs
Best Option: Magnet Schools offer themed programs (STEM, arts, language immersion, IB) not available in traditional neighborhood schools. Free tuition and transportation provided.
High School Students Interested in Career Training
Best Option: Regional Vocational-Technical Centers provide hands-on career preparation with industry certifications alongside traditional academics. Graduate career-ready with job placement assistance.
Homeschooling Families
Connecticut has minimal homeschool regulations compared to neighboring states. No formal notification required (though recommended). Required subjects: reading, writing, math, science, social studies, U.S. history, and government. Important: Connecticut has no state-funded ESA program to support homeschool expenses (unlike many other states).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Connecticut have Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)?
No. Connecticut does not currently operate a state-funded ESA program or voucher program for private school tuition.
Are Open Choice and magnet schools the same thing?
No. Open Choice allows students to transfer to public schools in other districts (urban to suburban or vice versa). Magnet schools are specialized themed schools (STEM, arts, etc.) that draw students from multiple districts. Both use lottery systems and are tuition-free.
How much does private school cost in Connecticut?
Connecticut has the highest private school tuition in the nation. Average costs: elementary/middle school $23,900; secondary school $42,032. Some boarding schools exceed $70,000+ annually.
Can my child attend a charter school outside our district?
Yes. Charter schools in Connecticut are open to any student statewide, regardless of district. Admission is through a lottery if demand exceeds capacity.
Is transportation provided for school choice programs?
- Open Choice: Yes, free transportation provided (though travel may be 1-2 hours each way).
- Magnet schools: Typically yes.
- Charter schools: Varies by school.
Do I need to notify the state if I homeschool?
No formal notification is legally required, though filing a Notice of Intent with your local school district is recommended for record-keeping purposes.
Can students with special needs participate in school choice?
Yes. All school choice programs (Open Choice, magnet, charter) must serve students with special needs and comply with IDEA. Students retain all rights and protections.
What happens if my child doesn’t get a placement through the lottery?
Students are placed on a waitlist and called as seats become available through September. If not placed, students remain at their current school or are assigned to the closest school with space.
Can we apply to multiple magnet schools?
Yes, you can rank up to 3-5 schools (varies by region) on one application, but you can only receive one placement offer. Choose your rankings strategically.
Are there income requirements for public school choice?
No. Open Choice, magnet schools, and charter schools have no income requirements and are free for all Connecticut residents.
How do Promise Programs work?
Promise Programs (Hartford, New Haven, Waterbury, Bridgeport) are college scholarships for graduates of those districts’ public schools, not K-12 school choice programs. They provide financial aid for Connecticut colleges.
Will Connecticut participate in the federal tax credit scholarship program?
Unknown as of December 2025. Connecticut has not yet opted into the federal program that begins in 2027. Families should monitor state announcements.
Why haven’t new charter schools opened since 2015?
Connecticut requires legislative approval for charter school funding, creating a two-tier approval process. This unique requirement has prevented new charter schools from opening since 2015.
What is the RSCO?
The Regional School Choice Office (RSCO) manages school choice applications for the Hartford, New Haven, and Bridgeport regions. Families in these areas apply through the RSCO portal at www.chooseyourschool.org.
Can I homeschool and use public school resources part-time?
Policies vary by district. Some districts allow homeschool students to participate in specific classes or extracurricular activities. Contact your local school district for their specific policies.