More Than a Transfer: How School Choice Restores Confidence and Opportunity

Tommy Schultz · CEO, American Federation for Children

Sometimes success on paper hides a deeper struggle that only the right school can truly address.

O’Brian was on the honors track at his original school. On paper, he was succeeding.

But he wasn’t being seen as a whole student. Instead of being invested in, he began to feel defined by his struggles. He was removed from the honors program. His confidence faded. His love of learning slowly disappeared.

His mother could see what was happening. The issue wasn’t his ability. He was in the wrong environment.

Without access to another option, many students in similar situations fall further behind — academically and personally. But O’Brian’s family was able to seek out a different school that aligned with his needs.

That decision changed everything.

What the Right School Makes Possible

In his sophomore year, O’Brian enrolled at Valiant Cross, a private, college-preparatory school focused on discipline, leadership, and character formation.

There, educators saw leadership potential in him. They challenged him. They mentored him. They restored his confidence.

He was accepted into the National Honor Society. He rediscovered his love of learning. Today, he is headed to a respected university — prepared not just academically, but for life.

“Valiant Cross prepares me for life.”

— O’Brian Harris

Stories like O’Brian’s show what can happen when families have access to the right educational environment — one that sees the whole child and invests in both character and achievement.

Preparing Students for More Than Graduation

When asked about his goals, O’Brian speaks about becoming a good father, a good husband, and a mentor in his community. He talks about integrity, discipline, and faith.

He credits his school with helping shape that vision.

“Valiant Cross prepares me for life,” he explains. “Whether you’re going into college, the workforce, or the military — it prepares you.”

That is the promise behind school choice: placing students in environments that see them as whole individuals — not just test scores.

As the Education Freedom Tax Credit approaches its 2027 launch, more families will gain access to the kind of life-changing opportunity that helped O’Brian rediscover his confidence and his future.

Eligible donors can receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit of up to $1,700 when they contribute to a qualifying K–12 scholarship organization. Any amount above $1,700 is treated as a standard 501(c)(3) charitable deduction. There is no cap on how much you can give.

Because when students find the right fit, everything changes.