Facing Educational Challenges: Denver resident Mariah Wakefield sought an educational environment suited to her adoptive daughter Jasiya’s talents. With a deep bond formed since she became Jasiya’s guardian in 2013, Wakefield navigated personal adversity, ensuring Jasiya’s future remained a priority.
ACE Scholarships: A national Scholarship Granting Organization, ACE Scholarships, provided critical assistance for Jasiya to be enrolled in a school conducive to her growth. Wakefield now champions the organization as ACE introduces a nationwide awareness campaign linked to President Donald Trump’s school choice initiative.
Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC): This federal program offers taxpayers up to a $1,700 tax credit for contributions to qualified nonprofit SGOs ($3,400 for joint filers). Governors must opt in for local families to benefit. Over half the states have joined, with Colorado Governor Jared Polis leading Democratic participation.
School Choice Impact: A Department of Education official noted the competitive pressure on states to capture private donations through this tax incentive. School choice has been contentious among Democrats, but rising demand for alternatives post-pandemic necessitates reconsideration.
Wakefield believes school choice can transform a child’s future: “I feel that everybody should be notified and have the opportunity to be able to have a different outcome of life for your child.”
National Ad Campaign: ACE’s “Make It Possible” campaign aims to inform taxpayers about the EFTC’s impact on K–12 education. The organization provides resources to clarify misconceptions and guide participation.
Expansion in Key Cities: The campaign targets major cities like Denver, Washington, D.C., New York, and others to broaden support in Democratic areas where teachers unions often resist funding redirection to private education.
Success Story: Jasiya excels at Kent Denver School—a testament to her potential unlocked through school choice.
“For too many American children, financial circumstances determine which educational opportunities are within reach,” said Kristy Badger, ACE’s chief marketing officer.
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