Protecting Students On and Off the Field

We fought the Alabama High School Athletic Association and we won. 

Last fall, EdChoice Legal Advocates stepped in to defend an Alabama family after the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) sought to prevent students using the state’s new CHOOSE Act education savings account program to leave public school from participating right away in interscholastic athletics. We believe families should never be forced to choose between the right education and the opportunity to participate in sports. 

Today, I’m pleased to share that we have reached a settlement that protects our client’s ability to participate in athletic activities without limitation based on his status as a CHOOSE Act participant. The agreement also ensures that he will not face adverse action or retaliation related to his participation in the lawsuit or his family’s advocacy on behalf of educational choice. Importantly, the suit prompted legislative action benefitting all CHOOSE Act students.  

When Alabama enacted the CHOOSE Act, lawmakers intended to empower families with more educational options. Those options should include everything that makes school meaningful: academics, extracurricular activities, friendships, and the chance to represent your school on the field, court, or track. 

We fought the AHSAA because educational freedom should not come with strings attached. Families should not have to sacrifice opportunities simply because they choose a different educational path for their children. 

EdChoice Legal Advocates was able to stand with this family and secure this important win. Together, we are defending the promise that school choice opens doors—and ensuring that families can access all options, including athletics.