More than 46 million U.S. parents considered finding a new school for at least one of their children last year, marking a five-year high in school searching, according to a new national survey. The survey found that 75% of parents of school-aged children said they considered new schools in 2025, up from 60% the year before. Twenty-one percent of parents, about 13.3 million nationwide—ultimately enrolled at least one child in a new learning environment. The findings come from a survey of 3,960 parents released by the National School Choice Awareness Foundation ahead of National School Choice Week, which runs Jan. 25–31. Most parents who enrolled their children in new schools said they were motivated by practical factors rather than dissatisfaction. Common reasons included children entering school for the first time (20%), moving between school levels (26%), or families relocating to a new community (16%). Just 32% cited dissatisfaction with their child’s previous school as the primary reason for enrolling somewhere new. When selecting new schools, parents who enrolled their children said their top priorities were a safe, supportive school environment (61%), a positive social environment (47%), and a particular educational theme or approach—such as STEM, arts, or faith-based education (39%). Looking ahead, interest in school choice is expected to remain strong. Nearly two-thirds of parents (62%) said they are likely to consider new schools for at least one of their children in 2026. For details on National School Choice Week events and activities, visit schoolchoiceweek.com.
