Expanding Educational Opportunities Through the Interdistrict Public School Choice Program
A Proven Solution for New Jersey Students
How do we solve the enormous and consequential problem of educational inequity without disrupting schools that are already thriving or increasing costs for property taxpayers? Fortunately, a solution already exists within New Jersey’s current education system. By expanding the state’s Interdistrict Public School Choice Program, we can provide more students with greater educational opportunities while maintaining financial stability for school districts.
New Jersey boasts some of the best schools in the country, yet the latest statewide test scores reveal that a majority of public school students are not meeting critical learning benchmarks. Even more concerning, New Jersey’s performance in academic recovery is unacceptable. The Education Recovery Scorecard ranks our state 43rd in math recovery and 24th in reading recovery between 2019 and 2024. Worse yet, 91% of New Jersey students attend districts where average math achievement in 2024 remains below 2019 levels. This is not just a temporary setback—it’s a crisis that demands bold action.
This innovative program, launched in 2001, allows the state to authorize existing public school districts to become Choice Districts. These districts, at their discretion, can remove ZIP code barriers and accept students from neighboring school districts. The state’s portion of education funding follows the student to the Choice District, while the local levy remains with the sending district, ensuring stability in budgeting.
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Why is the IDSC Important?
Expanding the Interdistrict School Choice Program is essential for educational freedom, efficiency, and student success.
Expands Opportunity for Students
Many students, particularly those in underperforming or overcrowded districts, do not have access to schools that best meet their needs. Expanding school choice empowers families to select the right educational environment for their child.
Maximizes Existing Resources
Many districts across the state have under-enrolled schools that could accommodate more students without additional infrastructure costs. Expanding interdistrict choice optimizes school capacity and state resources.
Addresses Geographic and Socioeconomic Barriers
Students from lower-income communities often have limited educational options. Interdistrict choice levels the playing field by providing high-quality school opportunities regardless of ZIP code.
High Demand, Limited Access
Each year, thousands of families seek to enroll their children in Choice Districts to better meet their educational needs. However, with the program frozen for nearly a decade, more than 2,000 students remain on the waitlist annually. Parents see a better path for their children, but these students are locked out of opportunities due to the program’s lack of expansion.
There are countless reasons why families seek interdistrict public school choice. A grandparent providing child care might need a school closer to home. A student experiencing bullying may desperately need a fresh start. Another may wish to pursue a specialized arts program or ROTC course available in another district. New Jersey families know what’s best for their children, and Choice Districts are ready to meet those needs.
The Need for Expansion
Since its launch in 2001, the Interdistrict Public School Choice Program has grown to include 119 choice districts, serving approximately 5,000 students. However, nearly 2,000 students remain on waiting lists due to state-imposed caps, despite high demand. This unmet demand highlights both the program’s success and the urgent need for expansion.
The impact of these limitations is felt across the state:
- Englewood Regional currently serves 265 choice students but has 96 students on the waitlist
- Rockaway serves 128 choice students and has 151 students on the waitlist. The district has expressed interest in expanding its program to 300 students, but without additional state funding, it cannot meet the demand.
- Haddon Heights accommodates 68 choice students but has 84 students waiting for an open spot.
- South Hunterdon Regional currently serves 97 choice students and has room to grow to 150 students, yet 25 students remain on the waitlist due to program caps.
These numbers reflect only a fraction of the unmet demand statewide. Many districts want to expand their programs to serve more students, but without state action, they are forced to turn away families who are actively seeking better educational options.
Unfortunately, this program has remained capped for over a decade, preventing more students from accessing the schools that best fit their needs. Every year, families are left waiting—not because schools lack space or willingness, but because the state has not provided the necessary resources to grow the program.
A Legislative Opportunity in 2025
The New Jersey Legislature has the opportunity to take meaningful action. By not only unfreezing the program but also expanding it to all interested districts, the state can open more seats and give more students access to quality education.
Take Action
On behalf of:
- Families desperate to enroll their children in a school that meets their needs
- School districts looking to diversify their student population and maintain enrollment levels
- Students striving for a brighter future
Together, we will urge the New Jersey Legislature to unfreeze and expand the Interdistrict Public School Choice Program in the next state budget.
Learn More and Get Involved
- New Jersey Department of Education – Interdistrict Choice: Visit Here
- Contact Your Legislator: Find Your Representative
- Tell NJPI Your Experience with IDSC: Connect With Us
