The Florida Department of Education has announced that the state has achieved the highest score on the 2025 EdChoice Friedman Index. Florida’s score of 77 reflects its extensive school choice programs and the availability of Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) for families seeking additional educational services.
Governor Ron DeSantis commented on this achievement, stating, “Today, Florida posted yet another #1 ranking. EdChoice has named Florida #1 in education freedom for having the most robust school choice options in the nation. Education is best with competition and Freedom!”
Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr. expressed pride in their efforts to expand school choice options for families. He said, “Florida has led the nation in education because of our record investments in school choice. I thank EdChoice for the recognition of our hard work to support every Florida student in finding the right learning environment for their individual needs.”
The Friedman Index assesses states based on student eligibility for choice programs, options for using school choice funds, and parity between school choice funds and traditional school funding. Florida outperformed other high-ranking states significantly; Arkansas scored 60 and Alabama scored 59 compared to Florida’s 77.
Further details on the Friedman Index scores can be found at www.edchoice.org/engage/the-2025-edchoice-friedman-index/.
