Policy news · Proposed legislation
Nancy Mace announces School Freedom Act proposal for federal K–12 funding
The proposed School Freedom Act of 2026 would replace existing federal K–12 programmes with parent-directed accounts. It is proposed legislation, not an available grant.
K-12 Funding ·
What has been announced?
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) announced the School Freedom Act of 2026, a proposal to redirect federal elementary and secondary education funding into School Freedom Accounts controlled by parents. Her office’s press release is dated October 16, 2026, while its opening dateline says October 15. This article summarises that announcement; it does not independently establish the bill’s congressional status.
How would the accounts work?
According to the announcement, existing federal K–12 education programmes would be phased out and replaced by per-student accounts. Families could direct funds to their local public school or use them for approved alternatives, including private and charter schools, homeschool curriculum, tutoring, online learning, and career and technical education. The release also describes educational therapies, vocational training, testing and instructional materials as qualifying uses.
Contributions and unused balances
The proposal would allow states to contribute state funding and parents to make tax-advantaged contributions. Unused balances could roll into a Higher Education and Skills Obtainment Fund for college, career and technical education, or other eligible postsecondary expenses, according to the release.
Proposed timing — conditional on enactment
The announcement says that, if enacted, the transition would begin immediately, existing federal K–12 programmes would be phased out by June 30, 2027, and accounts would become available for the 2027–2028 school year. These are proposed dates, not confirmed changes to current funding.
What this means for schools and families now
This announcement is not an open funding opportunity or an application invitation. The release does not provide an account application process or per-student award amount. Schools, districts and families should continue to use current official programme guidance and monitor legislative developments before changing funding plans. Statements about the proposal’s benefits are the sponsor’s position, not demonstrated outcomes.
Source
Rep. Nancy Mace’s official press releaseOriginal summary by K-12 Funding. Source reviewed October 16, 2026.