Education Savings Act Becomes Focus of Iowa Legislative Race
The state's private school funding law has spurred new political competition in Iowa.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Homeschooling
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Mike Bergman has launched a challenge against Cindy Golding for a seat in the Iowa House, citing his opposition to the Student First Act. This law, which provides public funding for private school tuition, is now a central issue in the state's legislative campaign.
Why it matters
The program has sparked intense debate over the role of public funding in private education and its potential long-term impact on the state's rural school districts. This shift highlights a deepening divide over how Iowa manages school choice and family education resources.
The Student First Act, which became law on January 24, 2023, cost the state $347 million during fiscal years 2024 and 2025. This funding allows Iowa K-12 students to utilize state resources for private school tuition and fees.
The players
Mike Bergman
A resident of Mount Vernon and a candidate for the Iowa House running on a platform opposing the current private school funding law.
Cindy Golding
An incumbent legislator seeking reelection who voted in favor of the Student First Act.
Rob Sand
A public official who has publicly voiced criticism regarding the state's education savings account program.
Zach Lahn
A proponent of school choice who characterizes the education savings account program as a foundational freedom for families.
Scott Ellison
An observer who predicts that the current funding model will place greater financial and operational pressure on smaller rural school districts.
The details
The program functions by redirecting state funds directly to families for private educational expenses, a process supporters like Zach Lahn describe as a foundational freedom. Conversely, critics express concerns that this model creates increased pressure on smaller, rural school districts while potentially leading to a broader proliferation of private schools across the state.
Timeline
January 24, 2023: The Student First Act was signed into law.
Fiscal years 2024 and 2025: Education savings accounts cost $347 million.
The Home Front
The Student First Act represents a significant shift in Iowa education policy by establishing a permanent mechanism for state-funded private schooling. This program continues to influence local political discourse as families and districts adapt to the new funding reality.
Families in Iowa should monitor how state legislative changes to school funding might affect their local district's resources and future enrollment options. It is worth reviewing district-level reports to understand how these state-level policies translate to available local schooling services.
The takeaway
The implementation of the Student First Act remains a defining issue for education policy in Iowa. Residents should stay informed about the program's fiscal impact to anticipate how changing state funding models might affect their local school district's long-term sustainability.
Further reading
For more on the changing landscape of local education options, visit our Iowa Homeschooling section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Daily Iowan.
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