Last year, over 34,000 Louisiana families applied for LA GATOR—so their children could attend the school or receive an education through a quality homebased program that fits them best—only to be told there wasn’t enough funding as lawmakers prioritized spending in other areas.

As parents, we all want our children to wake up excited for school, to feel seen and supported, and to have every chance to discover their gifts—whether that’s in a classroom that challenges them academically, nurtures their creativity, or provides the specialized support they need to thrive.

But limited funding meant over 40,000 families were left waiting or turned away. That’s thousands of Louisiana children who couldn’t rise to their full potential simply because there wasn’t enough room at the table for them.

This is about our children, not politics. These are our own tax dollars—hard-earned money paid by Louisiana families and constituents—already part of the state’s budget. Those dollars should follow the child to the school or learning environment where they can truly thrive, instead of being locked into a system that may not fit.

A child’s future shouldn’t be determined by their zip code. Every Louisiana kid deserves the opportunity to rise—no matter where they live.

The LA GATOR program gives parents the power to choose the education setting where their child can flourish. This program puts decisions back in the families’ hands.

This year, as legislators decide the state budget, we have a chance to change that story. We need them to fund the Governor’s budget for LA GATOR with the tax dollars we already contribute, so no more Louisiana children are left on a waitlist while their potential sits idle.

That’s why we’re coming together as parents across our state—to tell lawmakers: Our kids can’t wait. Direct our tax dollars where they will do the most good for our children. Fund LA GATOR now.