More than six in ten Hispanic parents entered 2026 expecting to look at a different school for at least one of their children.
A January 2026 survey from the National School Choice Awareness Foundation found that 61 percent of Hispanic parents said they were likely to search for a new school in 2026. That was almost identical to the 62 percent reported among parents nationally.
This tracks with what they found last year. In the foundation’s January 2025 survey, 63 percent of Hispanic parents said they had considered, searched for, or chosen a new school during the previous year.
Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15) puts a spotlight on Hispanic families and their contributions. It should also draw attention to the choices those families are making for their children’s education. Many are asking whether the school their child attends is still the right fit.
The choices vary widely. Some parents consider another public school. Others look at private schools, homeschooling, charter schools, or other alternatives. The point is not that Hispanic parents prefer one particular kind of school. It is that many want the ability to choose.
Iowa has given more families that ability. ESAs have made accredited nonpublic schools financially possible for families who previously could not afford tuition. For the 2026-27 school year, eligible students can receive $8,148, and Iowa makes the ESA application available in both English and Spanish.
Choice still depends on parents knowing what is available. A program or school does little good for a family that never hears about it or cannot find the information needed to apply.
We should listen to what Hispanic parents are already telling us. Many are looking at their children’s education and asking whether another school might be a better fit.
They deserve the freedom to answer that question for themselves.