WNTK: Education Options in NH

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WNTK: Education Options in NH

WNTK short interview with Dr. Jody Underwood (Education Options NH / “EdOpt”), early October 2025, about education options in New Hampshire.

Dr. Underwood promoted and explained a regional EdOpt Fair in Claremont. She gave parents a plain‑English tour of New Hampshire K–12 alternatives and funding tools.

Event: EdOpt Fair in Claremont

  • Claremont Community Center (South Street, across from the middle school) • Monday, October 6 • 5–7 p.m.
  • Providers expected: local charter and private schools, homeschool groups, NH Department of Education (Alternative Pathways team), and Children’s Scholarship Fund (CSF). EdOpt will also staff a help table for one‑on‑one guidance.

Key points

  • Charter schools: Public and tuition‑free; families do not pay to attend. Charters may hire subject‑matter experts (only ~50% of teachers must be state‑certified) and often take distinct approaches from district schools.
  • Scholarships/funding: Two CSF programs discussed—Education Tax Credit scholarships (generally up to ~300% of FPL) and Education Freedom Accounts (EFAs). In 2025 EFAs became universal but now have a 10,000‑student cap. Priority spaces remain for income‑eligible families, students with disabilities, English learners, and students below grade‑level reading.
  • Timing: EFA enrollments start in September with additional entry points (e.g., November). Details available from CSF at the fair.
  • Adequacy grants: The per‑pupil state adequacy amount (baseline around $4,000, with add‑ons for need) mirrors the EFA amount conceptually.
  • Homeschooling: Typical out‑of‑pocket costs cited around $1,000–$1,200 per child per year. Families can form informal co‑ops and mix modes (e.g., district classes, charter courses, learning centers).
  • Practical guidance: Come knowing what isn’t working and your constraints (work schedules, transportation). Also consider the kind of environment your child needs (small/large, traditional/classical/project‑based).
  • Other fairs noted: Candia (Oct 27) and Keene (Nov 3).
  • EdOpt maintains an interactive provider map and weekly short newsletter at edopt.org.

Listen to the interview here: