Across America, millions of children walk into classrooms every day that were chosen for them – not by their families, but by circumstance. For some students, those schools work. For others, they do not. That is why schools like Valiant Cross Academy exist. Located in the heart of downtown Montgomery, Alabama, Valiant Cross Academy was founded with a clear mission: to love, educate, and empower young African American men and boys of color. For many students, it becomes much more than a school. It becomes a turning point.
“They Were the First People Who Could Reach Me”
When Jeremiah arrived at Valiant Cross Academy, he was struggling. “I was a little bit of a troubled child,” he said. “Nobody could really get to me or through me.” But something changed when he walked through the doors of Valiant Cross.
“When I came to Valiant Cross, everything just settled down,” Jeremiah said. “They were the only people that could talk to me.” More than academics, Jeremiah found mentorship and stability. “They gave me that real father figure that I always needed.”
Stories like Jeremiah’s are not unique. There is a student like him in every American ZIP code, a child with potential who simply needs the right environment, the right mentors, and the right opportunity to thrive. Too often, families know what their child needs but cannot afford access to it.
Be the First to Know
Get notified when the Education Freedom Tax Credit launches so you don’t miss the opportunity to support K–12 students while benefiting from a federal tax credit.
“When I came to Valiant Cross, everything just settled down,” Jeremiah said. “They were the only people that could talk to me.”
Why School Choice Matters
For families at Valiant Cross Academy, school choice is not an abstract policy debate. It is deeply personal.
It means having the freedom to choose a school where students are known, challenged, supported, and loved. But even schools making a life-changing impact face difficult realities.
“One of the things that keeps me up at night is having to turn away some students that may not be able to come,” one school leader shared. “If they cannot receive a scholarship or the parent may not be able to pay.”
No family should lose access to a school helping their child succeed simply because of finances. That’s why expanding educational opportunities matters through the Education Freedom Tax Credit is critical.
Why the Education Freedom Tax Credit Matters for Families
While the Education Freedom Tax Credit will not be available until 2027, its passage marks a critical step forward for families seeking educational freedom.
Too many parents today still face the risk of losing access to the schools that are helping their children succeed, especially during times of crisis. Expanding school choice through tax credit scholarships ensures that more students can stay in environments where they are known, supported, and able to thrive.
A Message from Families
“From the bottom of my heart, and from my family and even the other families that I know, thank you for supporting school choice,” Marquetta said.
A few moments today could help shape a student’s future tomorrow. Check your eligibility for the Education Freedom Tax Credit and help create more educational opportunities for families nationwide.
