Denver Mother Advocates for School Choice Through ACE Scholarships

Mariah Wakefield’s Search for the Right School

Mariah Wakefield, a resident of Denver, faced a challenge in finding the right school for her adoptive daughter Jasiya. Wakefield believed that Jasiya needed more than what Denver Public Schools could offer. Her journey began after becoming Jasiya’s legal guardian following the death of the girl’s mother in 2013, when Jasiya was just four years old.

Amidst personal challenges, Wakefield always prioritized Jasiya’s education. Her efforts paid off when ACE Scholarships stepped in. This organization helped her place Jasiya in a school where she could truly excel.

ACE Scholarships and the Education Freedom Tax Credit

ACE Scholarships, a key supporter of school choice, is now promoting a nationwide awareness campaign centered on the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC). This tax credit allows individual taxpayers to receive up to a $1,700 federal tax credit for contributions to nonprofit Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs). For married couples filing jointly, the credit can reach $3,400. State governors must opt in to enable families and educational organizations to participate.

Over half of U.S. states are participating, including Colorado, where Governor Jared Polis supports the initiative. While critics have questioned the program, Gov. Polis emphasized the benefits of increased funding for educational programs.

School Choice Debates and ACE’s Impact

School choice remains a contentious issue, often dividing political parties. Some argue that choice models detract from funding for public schools. However, the demand for alternatives such as charter and private schools has grown post-pandemic. ACE Scholarships advocates for broad educational opportunities, offering private scholarships to low-income families. Since its establishment 26 years ago, it has awarded over 121,000 scholarships valued at more than $395 million across 13 states.

As part of the “Make It Possible” campaign, ACE aims to educate the public on the EFTC and its benefits, particularly in Democratic-led states where such policies face opposition. The advertising push targets key markets, including Denver, to expand school choice awareness.

For Wakefield, these policies were vital in unlocking Jasiya’s potential. She encourages others to seek out similar opportunities for their children.

Broader Educational Opportunities for All

According to Kristy Badger, chief marketing officer at ACE Scholarships, the EFTC aims to provide diverse educational opportunities to children, regardless of financial circumstances. She emphasizes the importance of tailoring education to individual needs, which the EFTC helps facilitate.

Every child has unique talents, interests, and learning needs that determine how they thrive.

Today, Jasiya thrives as a student at Kent Denver School, showing how impactful educational choices can be.