Rhode Island ranks near the bottom of states in private K-12 educational choice options for families, according to the 2026 EdChoice Friedman Index.

The Ocean State received a score of 1 on the index, which ranges from 0 to 100 and measures how effectively states allow families to direct education funding to the schooling options they prefer. That places Rhode Island in the “Good Start” tier alongside 21 other states with minimal programs.

The Friedman Index, produced by the nonprofit EdChoice, evaluates three main components: the percentage of students with funded eligibility for choice programs, the flexibility of funds through education savings account-style options, and how closely average awards per choice student match state and local per-pupil spending in public schools.

Rhode Island scored less than 1% on funded eligibility,  meaning virtually no students have realistic access to taxpayer-funded private options after accounting for program caps .

Nationally, the report highlights rapid growth in school choice since 2020, with 14 states achieving “universal choice” status for 100% student eligibility. Arizona led with a score of 83 (Gold tier), followed by Florida at 72. However, many programs face constraints from budget caps or awards that lag behind rising public school revenues, limiting real access.

Fifteen states, including California and New York, scored zero because they offer no taxpayer-funded private school choice opportunities. The report, inspired by the work of economists Milton and Rose Friedman, aims to track progress toward universal choice where families can fully direct education dollars. It uses data as of September 2025 and public revenue figures from the U.S. Census Bureau.

EdChoice researchers noted that while some states have expanded eligibility dramatically, others like Rhode Island remain limited. States in the Good Start tier, including Rhode Island, could improve by expanding funded access, raising award amounts to better match public spending levels, and ensuring broader use of flexible ESA-style accounts.

Rhode Island lawmakers and education advocates have debated school choice expansions in recent years, but the state continues to trail national momentum. Participation in private choice programs nationwide exceeded 1.5 million students in recent tallies, according to EdChoice data.
The full 2026 Friedman Index is available on the EdChoice website. The organization describes the index as a tool for policymakers to identify specific reforms needed in eligibility, options and funding parity.