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Effects of Scaling up Private School Choice Programs on Public School Students

Author

Listed:
  • Figlio, David N.

    (University of Rochester)

  • Hart, Cassandra M. D.

    (University of California, Davis)

  • Karbownik, Krzysztof

    (Emory University)

Abstract

Using a rich dataset that merges student-level school records with birth records, and leveraging a student fixed effects design, we explore how the massive scale-up of a Florida private school choice program affected public school students' outcomes. Program expansion modestly benefited students (through higher standardized test scores and lower absenteeism and suspension rates) attending public schools closer to more pre-program private school options. Effects are particularly pronounced for lower-income students, but results are positive for more affluent students as well. Local and district-wide private school competition are both independently related to student outcomes.

Suggested Citation

  • Figlio, David N. & Hart, Cassandra M. D. & Karbownik, Krzysztof, 2021. "Effects of Scaling up Private School Choice Programs on Public School Students," IZA Discussion Papers 14342, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp14342
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    Cited by:

    1. John Garen, 2023. "Enhancing economic freedom via school choice and competition: Have state laws been enabling enough to generate broad‐based effects?," American Journal of Economics and Sociology, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 82(4), pages 289-312, July.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    school choice; school competition; student achievement; behavioral outcomes;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • H75 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - State and Local Government: Health, Education, and Welfare
    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education
    • I22 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Educational Finance; Financial Aid
    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy

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