I recently learned that Florida was ranked first on the 2025 ALEC Index of State Education Freedom. That ranking did not surprise me. What surprised me was who posted it—the Florida Department of Education (DOE). The Florida DOE and the state’s education commissioner were celebrating the state’s ranking.
Florida’s embrace of educational freedom is no accident. It reflects decades of policy decisions prioritizing parental choice and innovation. From robust charter school laws to universal education savings accounts, Florida has created an ecosystem that empowers families to choose what works best for their children. It’s no wonder it tops the list.
Missouri ranked fairly well at 14th overall. The Show-Me State was bolstered by its strong showing in homeschooling (tied for first) and virtual education (tied for third). These are bright spots worth celebrating. However, Missouri was dragged down by an F grade in open enrollment laws. While some districts allow students to cross attendance boundaries, there is no statewide policy ensuring families have this option.
This is a missed opportunity. Open enrollment doesn’t just give families more flexibility; it also encourages schools to improve by fostering healthy competition. States like Florida understand this, and their success is a model worth following.
As a longtime advocate for school choice, I’ve been skeptical of Missouri’s new Department of Secondary and Elementary Education (DESE) commissioner, Karla Eslinger. Her record as a member of the legislature and her statements since taking the helm haven’t exactly signaled a bold embrace of educational freedom. However, she has an opportunity to change that perception.
If Commissioner Eslinger wants to demonstrate that she’s serious about putting students first, she should champion policies that expand educational freedom—especially open enrollment. By working to eliminate the barriers that restrict families to specific districts, she could transform Missouri’s education system and move the state up the rankings.
Florida’s celebration of its success on the ALEC Index shows the power of leadership and vision. Missouri should take note. If we want to improve outcomes for students, we must stop clinging to the status quo and embrace educational freedom. Let’s aim for the top of the list and ensure every child in Missouri has access to the education they deserve.
